Go beyond data.
The MA in Applied Economics program provides you with a unique combination of economic theory, policy analysis, and data analytics skills which give you the ability to identify, understand, and solve real-world problems. You’ll gain experience immersed in the same type of work that you’ll do after graduation, using the same analytical software most frequently used by Fortune 500 companies and financial institutions. Working under the guidance of faculty who conduct nationally- and internationally-recognized research, you will develop a skill-set highly sought after by companies, comprised of a strong foundation of economic theory, mathematics, and econometrics, as well as an understanding of the fundamentals of policy analysis.
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Program Highlights
- This is the only fully online MA in Applied Economics in North Carolina. No set class times.
- Learn to analyze large data sets with the same software used by Fortune 500 companies and financial institutions.
- Deepen your general economic theory and econometric skills and develop an understanding of policy analysis fundamentals.
- Prepare to make an impact in a variety of fields, including public policy, government, finance, and many more.
Full-Time
Enroll directly as a master’s degree student and complete the minimum 30-hour curriculum in just three semesters. You may choose to earn certificates along the way that match your career goals and interests OR a concentration in data analytics. Courses are offered online.
Part-Time
We recognize that not everyone has the flexibility to pursue a graduate degree full-time. Part-time options are available. We’ll gladly work with you to fit your schedule and ensure that you find the program equally rigorous and rewarding – and on your timeline. Courses are offered online.
Not ready for the full master's program?
You can complete one professional certificate, then apply to the master’s program at a later date. Plus, the GMAT/GRE admission requirements for the master’s program may be waived with the completion of a certificate.
Certificate coursework can count towards your master’s degree requirements. That means, the MA in Applied Economics degree can be earned with just five courses beyond your certificate! Take up to five academic years to complete all course requirements counting towards your master’s degree.
Stackable Certificate Options
Customize your curriculum! Begin your program of study by earning a graduate certificate in Economics of Health Analytics or Quantitative Business Economics. You can choose to earn the second certificate (stack certificates) en route to completing the master’s degree by completing just one additional course (3 credit hours) beyond the minimum 30 credit hours required to earn the MA in Applied Economics.
Step 1: 1st certificate
Choose your 1st certificate
Four Courses
(12 Credit Hours)
Step 2: 2nd certificate
Choose your 2nd certificate
Three Courses
(9 Credit Hours)
Step 3: core knowledge
MA Core Knowledge
Three Courses
(12 Credit Hours)
Fall 2022 Class Profile
84%In-State |
23Program |
20Annual |
2Years Average Time to |
3.4Average |
General Program of Study
Credit Hours | # of Courses | |
Master’s Electives | 12 hours | 4 |
Data Methods | 3 hours | 1 |
Policy Analysis | 3 hours | 1 |
Master’s Core Knowledge |
12 hours | 3 |
Our program has an over 90% job placement rate for graduates within three months of graduation. Typically, half of our students are placed before graduation.
Beyond number crunching
Professionals who can address real-world problems in business, finance, and government with advanced data analytics are highly sought after in today’s competitive job market. The Bryan School’s Master of Arts (MA) in Applied Economics goes beyond the standard data analytics program. We provide graduates with a unique combination of economic theory, policy analysis, and data analysis skills.
We teach students to identify real-world problems, understand the nature and context of those problems, and use the combination of theory, policy analysis, and data analysis to solve those problems. Excellent training is also provided for students who wish to enter the PhD program at UNCG or to pursue additional graduate education at other institutions.
The MA in Applied Economics is a recognized STEM program (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). Domestic graduate students will be eligible to receive outside STEM scholarships and aid such as those offered from the National Science Foundation.
Recent positions of our graduates
Health Economic Analyst,
Lockheed Martin
Economic and Financial Modeling Specialist,
Freddie Mac
Associate Research Analyst,
Center for Naval Analyses
Risk Analyst,
BB&T
Health Economist,
Abt Associates
Data Analyst,
Luxottica Group
Statistics Programmer,
SynteractHCR
Manager of Operational Analytics and Reporting,
Goodwill Industries
Qualitative Specialist,
Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta
Policy Analyst,
North Carolina Department of Commerce
Economic Advisor,
World Leadership Survey Project
Model Governance Analyst,
First Citizens Bank
Research Public Health Analyst,
RTI International
Passion for Health Policy Analysis
Whether traveling abroad, testing recipes, or playing soccer, Bryan School alumna Anna MacMonegle thrives on exploration and teamwork. That adventurous spirit serves her well in health policy analysis.
Read More in Our Blog
STEM Classified
The MA in Applied Economics is a recognized STEM program, which allows for additional benefits for both domestic and international students. Ask our graduate recruiter for details.
Interested in earning a Ph.D.?
Check out our Ph.D. in Economics program! The Ph.D. in Economics is expected to undergo curricular changes beginning in Fall 2023.
Benefits for Military-Affiliated Students
UNCG has been named both Best for Vets and a Military Friendly School. We’re a Yellow Ribbon Program participant, and are proud to offer a variety of benefits for veterans, active-duty military, and military-affiliated students, such as:
- Online application fee waiver for active-duty service members
- In-state tuition for out-of-state students (in accordance with the Veterans Choice Act)
- Credit for relevant military service/training
- Tutoring assistance
For more information on UNCG Military-Affiliated services and benefits, visit military.uncg.edu.
Have Questions?
If you still have questions regarding our MA in Applied Economics Program please reach out to our graduate recruitment team by phone or email. You may also schedule a time to meet with one of our recruiters or attend one of our upcoming information sessions.