Information for Prospective Students
As a Master's student in the Department of Economics at the University of New Mexico, you will have the opportunity to learn about and conduct applied research on the most pressing problems of this century. Working with a committed, diverse faculty, you will learn skills and knowledge through our theoretical and econometric sequences before conducting your own research in Environmental and Natural Resource Economics (ERE), Public Economics (PE), or International Development and Sustainability (IDS).
Our students are diverse. They hail from five continents and bring a range of academic specialties, contributing to a vibrant department. This diversity informs their research interests and professional goals. Our students place in government, NGOs, and business, while others choose to pursue further graduate studies.
Our Plan I program consists of intensive classroom-based coursework, with students completing a Master's thesis during the final semester of their program. The Master's thesis involves investigating a research question of the student's choosing with one-on-one faculty mentorship through to the completion of the project. Students can also opt for a Plan II (no thesis) Master's where they will be tested in their field of study (Econometrics, ERE, PE, or IDS) through written examination. Either Master's track can be completed in 18 to 24 months.
Beginning in Academic Year 2023-2024, the Department of Economics is excited to offer a Shared Credit Master of Arts in Economics Plan III (coursework only). Learn more here!
To become a part of this dynamic program ~ APPLY!
Applying to the Program
Due to our applied program design and select cohort size, our admittance process is holistic and does not focus on a single attribute. We look for students who have not only strong academic records, appropriate preparation, and indicated potential for success, but also interests consistent with the strengths of our department.
As such we consider a wide range of factors when admitting applicants to the program. These include GPA, course preparedness, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and letter of intent. Click here for the full list of application requirements.
The University also requires international applicants to demonstrate English proficiency through one of many English test options. Visit the Global Education Office site here for more information.
Application Deadlines
Our incoming Master's cohorts begin the Fall semester. International applicants must complete and submit their application no later than February 1. Domestic students must complete their application by July 1.
Funding
Given the limited nature of funding, we are unfortunately unable to offer funding to MA students. We strongly encourage MA students to seek funding opportunities available external to the department.
Resources
Graduate Studies provides more information about the Graduate school at UNM. The Global Education Office provides important information for international applicants.
Please also refer to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page for more information, or email econgrad@unm.edu for further assistance and direction.
