Master of Arts (MA) in Economics
Syracuse University, United States
Master of Arts (MA) in Economics
Syracuse University
Economics
Program Overview: MA in Economics at Syracuse University
The Master of Arts in Economics at Syracuse University, housed within the prestigious Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, offers rigorous training in mathematical and quantitative analysis, economic modeling, and econometrics. The program prepares graduates for professional careers in industry and government requiring advanced quantitative skills, as well as for further doctoral study.
The MA degree requires 30 credits (10 classes) in economics, including five mandatory courses and five electives chosen in consultation with your academic advisor. With small class cohorts, you will have extensive opportunities to conduct research and customize this flexible program based on your unique areas of interest.
Students benefit from the department's focus on labor economics, public economics, international trade, urban economics, and econometric theory. The program also offers the option to pursue independent research under faculty supervision, culminating in a substantial master's thesis demonstrating mastery of economic theory and advanced statistical methods.
Key Program Highlights
- STEM-designated program enhancing post-graduation employment opportunities and OPT eligibility for international students
- Flexible curriculum with five elective courses allowing specialization in areas such as public finance, development economics, or financial economics
- Located within the Maxwell School, consistently ranked among the top schools for public affairs in the United States
- Option to pursue a dual degree combining Economics with International Relations, earning two MA degrees in just two years
Curriculum and Course Modules
The MA in Economics curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in economic theory and quantitative methods. Students complete five mandatory core courses and five electives, with at least 15 credits at the 600 level or above. Up to 6 credits may be taken outside the Economics Department in cognate courses from other Syracuse University departments.
ECN 601 – Survey of Microeconomic Theory
3 CreditsCovers core microeconomic principles including consumer theory, producer theory, market structures, and general equilibrium analysis at the graduate level. A grade of B- or better is required.
ECN 602 – Survey of Macroeconomic Theory
3 CreditsProvides a rigorous treatment of macroeconomic models including growth theory, business cycles, monetary and fiscal policy, and open economy macroeconomics. A grade of B- or better is required.
ECN 603 – Survey of Econometric Theory
3 CreditsExamines statistical problems of estimating parameters in regression analysis, covering classical and modern econometric methods used in applied economic research.
ECN 605 – Mathematics for Economists
3 CreditsFocuses on the mathematical formulation of economic models, covering optimization techniques, linear algebra, and calculus applications essential for advanced economic analysis.
ECN 620 – Foundations of Econometrics
3 CreditsProvides foundational training in econometric methods including probability theory, statistical inference, and the core techniques used in empirical economic research.
ECN 505 – Mathematical Economics
3 CreditsIntroduces the mathematical tools and formal methods used in economic theory, bridging undergraduate and graduate-level quantitative skills required for advanced coursework.
Elective Course Options
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the MA in Economics program are expected to demonstrate an aptitude for graduate study in economics through prior coursework and academic performance. The admissions committee reviews the entire profile of each candidate through a holistic approach. To begin your application, contact Uni4Edu for guidance and support throughout the process.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeA completed bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited institution, with strong academic performance
- Academic BackgroundStrong undergraduate training in economics, mathematics, engineering, or a related quantitative field is preferred
- GRE ScoresApplicants are expected to submit GRE scores demonstrating quantitative aptitude; contact Uni4Edu for current requirements
- Minimum GPAA cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is recommended for competitive applicants
- Quantitative SkillsDemonstrated competence in calculus, statistics, and mathematical reasoning through prior coursework or professional experience
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 100 preferred for admission consideration
- IELTSMinimum overall band score of 7.0 preferred
- Duolingo English TestAccepted as an alternative; contact Uni4Edu for current minimum score requirements
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Syracuse University offers various forms of financial support to help graduate students fund their education. Merit-based aid is typically offered at the time of admission, and international students receive the same consideration for merit-based awards as U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on available funding opportunities.
Forever Orange Tuition Scholarship
Syracuse University alumni from participating graduating classes who are admitted to the MA in Economics program may be eligible for a guaranteed tuition scholarship. Contact Uni4Edu for eligibility details and current award amounts.
Maxwell School Merit-Based Scholarships
Varies based on meritDepartment awards are made at the time of admission, typically in the form of tuition scholarships covering a percentage of tuition charges each semester for the duration of the program. Awards are determined based on application materials submitted.
Syracuse University Need-Based Financial Aid
Varies based on demonstrated needNeed-based aid options including student loans and grants are available through the university's Office of Financial Aid. U.S. citizens and permanent residents should complete the FAFSA form. Contact Uni4Edu for additional funding guidance.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects and Outcomes
Graduates of the MA in Economics program from Syracuse University are well-positioned for careers in both the private and public sectors, leveraging advanced quantitative and analytical skills. The STEM designation of this program provides additional advantages for international graduates seeking employment in the United States. The department's strong research focus in labor, public, international, and urban economics opens diverse career pathways.
Potential Career Roles
Types of Employers Hiring Graduates
Rankings and Recognition
Syracuse University is a well-established private research institution founded in 1870, recognized across multiple global and national ranking systems. The Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, which houses the Economics Department, is consistently regarded as one of the leading schools for public affairs and policy education in the United States.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Business and Economics | THE World University Rankings by Subject | #401 |
| Business and Management Studies | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #151 |
| Business Masters (Finance) | QS Business Masters Rankings | #30 |
| Architecture and Built Environment | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #151-200 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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