Overview of Course Sequences

I. Introduction

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An important feature of the MA program in Economics is its flexibility, as there are several themes and numerous course sequences that students can choose from. We recommend that terminal MA students pursue a thesis option of one variety or another. In this option, students acquire theoretical and empirical skills through coursework, and demonstrate competence and creativity in the Masters thesis. The coursework can be completed in two semesters, and the thesis can be developed and finished at a pace of the students’ own choosing. We also offer a non-thesis option for students who wish to take a challenging course sequence emphasizing theoretical skills required for the PhD. Finally, an option which provides students with advanced training in applied economic research is being developed for 2007.

II. Basic requirements within the thesis option

30 hours of coursework, including 6 thesis hours
Two semesters of 4 courses each prepare the student for thesis work

At least 2 of the 8 courses must be in economic theory
Take micro and macro theory in the fall, or a two course sequence in micro, including Econ 802 in the spring semester

At least 1 of the 8 courses must be in econometrics

Up to 6 hours of courses may be taken outside the department
For example. courses in Applied Econ & Stats, Math, Political Science…
Obtain prior approval from the graduate coordinator

III. Four Alternative Themes for the Masters Degree in Economics

The themes listed below are meant to give guidance to students when choosing courses. These built around various combinations of course in economic theory and econometrics. Specialization in a variety of fields is possible within each theme.

A. The Standard Theme

In this theme, students take both micro and macro theory (Econ 801 and Econ 805) in the fall semester, before focusing on to field courses in the second semester. If feasible, we advise students to take at least one field course in the fall semester as well, unless additional work in mathematics is required to succeed in the theory courses.

Sample Course Sequence For Standard Theme

Sample Course Sequence For Standard Theme
Fall Spring Summer or Fall
Econ 801 - Micro I Econ 606 - Adv Econometrics Write MA thesis
Econ 805 - Macro I Three field courses  
Econ 605 - Econometrics    

Important notes:

B. Micro or Macro-Focused Theme

Students can specialize by taking a two course sequence in micro theory. Taking an advanced theory course demands very good quantitative skills of the student, hence the Math Econ course is recommended. Students with a strong interest in macroeconomics can replace the field course in the fall with Econ 805, and in the spring move on to Macro II rather than Micro II. We do not advise replacing Econ 801 with a field course.

Sample Course Sequence for Micro-Focused Theme

Fall Spring Summer or Fall
Econ 801 - Micro I Econ 802 - Micro II Write MA thesis
Apec 804 - Math Econ Econ 606 - Adv Econometrics  
Econ 605 - Econometrics Two Field Courses  
Field course or Math Econ    

C. Quantitative Theme: (Non-thesis option)

The non-thesis option allows students to develop advanced skills in economic theory. It is thus a challenging option. It requires that among the thirty hours of coursework, students pass each course in the PhD core sequence. Currently, the PhD core consists of three-course sequences in Macro, Micro, and Econometrics. MA students with outstanding quantitative skills can this finish this option in three semesters.

D. MA with Certificate in Applied Economic Research (under development)

This program is designed to build high-level skills in applied economic research. In addition to a two course sequence in economic theory, students are required to pass the PhD sequence in Econometrics, and to complete a research project under the supervision of a faculty member. The program takes a minimum of three semesters to complete. We anticipate it will be approved by the graduate school for Fall 2007.

IV. Recommended Field Courses for Masters Students

The following courses are pending approval by the graduate curriculum committee

+ Course with significant quantitative or theoretical content

Prospective Students

PhD

Masters

Current Students

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