At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Three distinct tracks: Course-based, Thesis-based, or Experiential Learning.Program Options
- STEM-certified program.STEM Designation
- Preparation for PhD programs or professional careers.Career Paths
- Opportunity to gain research experience or practical internships.Experiential Learning
- Study across departments like Fletcher School, Engineering, Math, or Computer Science.Interdisciplinary Opportunities
The Master of Science (MS) in Economics program offers a comprehensive understanding of economic theories and empirical methods, equipping students with the quantitative skills necessary for research-oriented careers. The program provides three distinct tracks to cater to diverse academic and professional goals: 1. **Course-based Track:** An accelerated, eight-course program achievable in one academic year, without a thesis requirement. 2. **Research-based Track with Master's Thesis:** A more in-depth, twelve-course program extending over two academic years, culminating in a master's thesis. 3. **Research-based Track with Experiential Learning:** Also a two-year program, this track integrates practical experience through internships or research assistantships, alongside coursework. All students initially enter the course-based track and have the opportunity to apply for one of the research-based tracks at the end of their first academic year, based on academic performance. Successful applicants to the research-based tracks may need to present a research proposal and secure an advisor. All tracks are STEM-certified, preparing graduates for advanced academic study or professional roles in various sectors.
Curriculum
The MS in Economics program offers flexibility with different tracks. Students complete core courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, along with electives. Research-based tracks include specialized seminars and thesis or experiential learning components.
- Year 1 (Course-based or start of Research-based tracks)
- StatisticsEconomics 201
- Microeconomic Theory IEconomics 203
- Macroeconomic Theory IEconomics 205
- Approved Elective
- EconometricsEconomics 202
- Microeconomic Theory IIEconomics 204
- Macroeconomic Theory IIEconomics 206
- Approved Elective
- Year 2 (Research-based with Thesis)
- Applied EconometricsEconomics 207
- Economic Research Seminar IEconomics 211
- Master's Thesis IEconomics 295
- Economic Research Seminar IIEconomics 212
- Master's Thesis IIEconomics 296
- Year 2 (Research-based with Experiential Learning)
- Applied EconometricsEconomics 207
- Approved Elective
- Independent Study/InternshipEconomics 290
- Research AssistantshipEconomics 291
- Research Elective
- Independent Study/Internship OR Research Assistantship OR Approved Elective
Careers
Graduates of the MS in Economics program are well-prepared for diverse career paths in both academia and professional sectors. The program provides a strong foundation for doctoral studies or for roles in various industries.
- PhD programs in Economics, Public Policy, Marketing, Finance, and Accounting
- Consulting firms
- Government and international agencies
- Teaching at community colleges or secondary schools
- Financial sector roles
- Research positions
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for the MS in Economics program?
- The cost per credit hour for graduate courses is $1,799. The course-based track requires 8 courses (24 credits) and research-based tracks require 13 additional credits on top of the 8 core courses (total 30 credits).
- What is the estimated total cost of attendance per year?
- The estimated cost of attendance for graduate students, which includes living expenses, is $53,970 per year.
- How long does the MS in Economics program take to complete?
- The course-based track is an accelerated, eight-course program achievable in one academic year. The research-based tracks extend over two academic years.
- What are the career outcomes for graduates of the MS in Economics program?
- Graduates are well-prepared for PhD programs or roles in consulting firms, government and international agencies, the financial sector, and research positions.
- What are the entry requirements for the MS in Economics program?
- A strong background in mathematics, including multivariate calculus, and some background in economics is expected for admission.
- How can I apply for scholarships?
- Applications must be completed before the submission deadline for full consideration for merit-based scholarships. Tufts alumni may be eligible for a 20 percent tuition discount.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA strong background in mathematics, including multivariate calculus, and some background in economics is expected.
All students are initially accepted into the course-based track. Admission to research-based tracks is based on performance in the first academic year. For thesis track, a strong research proposal and advisor availability are required.
Fees
Tuition (international)The cost per credit hour for graduate courses is $1,799. The course-based track requires 8 courses (24 credits) and the research-based tracks require 13 additional credits on top of the 8 core courses (total 30 credits).
Tuition (home)The cost per credit hour for graduate courses is $1,799. The course-based track requires 8 courses (24 credits) and the research-based tracks require 13 additional credits on top of the 8 core courses (total 30 credits).
LivingThe estimated cost of attendance for graduate students, which includes living expenses, is $53,970 per year.
Tuition rates are for the 2025-2026 academic year and do not include university fees. These rates apply to graduate courses. The Trustees reserve the right to change tuition and fees.
How to apply
1. Complete Application FormSubmit the online application for the MS in Economics program.
2. Upload Required DocumentsPrepare and upload all necessary application materials as listed below.
3. Submit ApplicationSubmit the completed application and pay the application fee.
4. Await Admission DecisionAdmissions decisions will be communicated after the review process.
Scholarships
Master's and Certificate Scholarships—
Tufts Alumni Scholarships20 percent discount on tuition
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for the MS in Economics program?
+
The cost per credit hour for graduate courses is $1,799. The course-based track requires 8 courses (24 credits) and research-based tracks require 13 additional credits on top of the 8 core courses (total 30 credits).
What is the estimated total cost of attendance per year?
+
The estimated cost of attendance for graduate students, which includes living expenses, is $53,970 per year.
How long does the MS in Economics program take to complete?
+
The course-based track is an accelerated, eight-course program achievable in one academic year. The research-based tracks extend over two academic years.
What are the career outcomes for graduates of the MS in Economics program?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for PhD programs or roles in consulting firms, government and international agencies, the financial sector, and research positions.
What are the entry requirements for the MS in Economics program?
+
A strong background in mathematics, including multivariate calculus, and some background in economics is expected for admission.
How can I apply for scholarships?
+
Applications must be completed before the submission deadline for full consideration for merit-based scholarships. Tufts alumni may be eligible for a 20 percent tuition discount.