The Top Online Master’s in Economics Programs
Economics is the study of the production, consumption, and distribution of resources, goods, and services. A master’s degree in this field provides you with educational and professional flexibility. In a master’s in economics program, you analyze the economy in depth at different scales, including at the individual or organizational level and on a national and international level.
Many of the top online schools offer online master’s in economics programs, giving you ample study options.
Best Accredited Online Master’s in Economics Programs
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$9,510
- Out-of-state$32,970
- In-State$13,035
- Out-of-state$34,347
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled38,628
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment78%
- AccreditationYes
University of Detroit Mercy
- Detroit, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$30,154
- Out-of-state$30,154
- In-State$21,276
- Out-of-state$21,276
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate93%
- Students Enrolled5,227
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment79%
- AccreditationYes
American University
- Washington, DC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$50,542
- Out-of-state$50,542
- In-State$37,447
- Out-of-state$37,447
- Retention Rate90%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled14,852
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$58,720
- Out-of-state$58,720
- In-State$58,720
- Out-of-state$58,720
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate8%
- Students Enrolled32,049
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment80%
- AccreditationYes
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What Can I Expect From an Online Master’s in Economics Program?
Most economics students have an interest in mathematics and statistical analysis. These two-year programs usually feature 30-45 credits and focus on developing knowledge of foundational economic theory and analytical skills and methods. When preparing for graduate school, you should be aware of the different degree and concentration options available in this field.
A master’s in economics program may award an MA or MS degree, with possible differences in the electives, focuses, and eventual career paths. MA curricula, for example, tend to look more at theoretical economics and interdisciplinary approaches, such as public policy. In contrast, MS degrees curricula may delve more deeply into the technical side of economics.
In addition to different degree types, you may have a choice of concentrations. A master’s in economics program may feature options like financial economics, data analytics, and international economics. Each concentration features a section of specialized courses and training that can help improve the chances of employment in a particular subdiscipline.
While most training takes place in the classroom, you should be prepared for practicum and/or internship experiences. Both degree types may offer these as an outlet for practical application of theoretical knowledge. Even students in an online master’s in economics program can participate in a practicum, though distance learners may have to find a location close to home.
What Can I Do With an Online Master’s in Economics Degree?
Graduates with a master’s degree in economics can help people, businesses, and governments better understand markets, risks, and opportunities. Their specialized training can apply to many industries, including business, finance, and healthcare.
This career path is also quite lucrative, with economists earning median annual wages of $115,730 (as of May 2023). Economics graduates tend to be skilled at working with numbers and statistics; these abilities can also be applied to in-demand roles like statistician and research analyst. Though not exhaustive, the following list of careers shows a few popular career pathways for economics graduates.
| Job Title | Median Annual Salary (May 2023) |
|---|---|
| Economist | $115,730 |
| Mathematician | $104,860 |
| Operations Research Analyst | $83,640 |
| Budget Analyst | $84,940 |
| Survey Researcher | $60,960 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Master’s in Economics Programs
A master’s in economics prepares graduates for many promising and attractive career pathways. Not only does this degree meet the minimum requirements for the economist profession, but it qualifies graduates for many business-related and management careers.
The flexible training and skills learned in an economics program can be applied to various industries, making this degree very useful for students who know they want to go to graduate school but are still unsure about their exact professional plans.
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