The Department of Economics offers a Master of Arts in Economics and a Master of Arts in Financial Economics.

The Master of Arts in Economics degree emphasizes applied economics. The program has a firm commitment to economic theory, but the main focus is on economic policy analysis. Students must complete a core set of requirements that focus on economic theory and analytical tools. They must also complete a policy practicum, which requires application of the tools of economic analysis to specific subject areas and policy issues. The program is designed to enable students to identify the economic content of a problem, to develop hypotheses, to apply appropriate analytical tools and models, and to develop policy alternatives. The ability to communicate clearly is emphasized throughout the program.

The Master of Arts in Financial Economics degree provides advanced training in economics and finance to students interested in careers involving quantitative analysis in various areas of finance. The program provides a solid foundation in micro- and macroeconomic theory to ensure that graduates have the conceptual tools needed to develop sound research designs and understand the role of financial markets and institutions within the economy. The program combines courses in the M.A. program in Economics and the M.B.A. program in the Maine Business School. The ability to communicate clearly is emphasized throughout the program.

Both programs offer the M.A. student preparation for a variety of career paths. Students, with the assistance of the Graduate Coordinator, may design their program of study for:

1. Employment in business or government, or
2. Continuing work on advanced degrees in economics, law, finance, business administration, and other areas.

Students are required to work closely with the Department of Economics Graduate Coordinator on matters of course selection.

The Department offers a series of courses which reflect the wide scope of contemporary economics and the various specializations of the faculty. From year to year, the content of some courses will vary in accordance with changes in the significance of policy questions at the state, national, and international levels, and with faculty research interests.

Prerequisites

General Prerequisites

An undergraduate degree in economics or a related field is desirable, but is not essential for admission to this program. Admission is based upon the requirements of the Graduate School, Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) scores, a demonstrated capacity for graduate study, and the quality of previous work.

M.A. in Financial Economics

For regular admission, applicants are required to have completed basic courses in accounting, calculus, and statistics, and intermediate level undergraduate courses in microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory, and business finance. Applicants without the required background may be accepted provisionally while meeting these prerequisites.