MS in Economics

American University
United States, Washington, DC

College of Arts and Sciences

Study location	Online
Type	Graduate, Online
Nominal duration	24 months (30 Credits)
Study language	English
Awards	(Master of Science in Economics)
Accreditation	https://www.american.edu/middlestates/

Tuition fee	$1,300 per credit The total tuition fee for the full program is $38,950.

Tuition fee

$1,300 per credit

The total tuition fee for the full program is $38,950.

Entry qualification	Bachelor Degree To be considered for one of our programs, you must have a USA Bachelor’s Degree or an internationally recognized equivalent, with a preferred GPA of 3.0 or above. All applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and we will also consider applicants with a lower GPA. Professional experience is recognized in lieu of academic qualifications, and those with at least two years of relevant experience are strongly encouraged to apply. Please note that some of our programs may have specific prerequisites that are required for entry onto the program. This information can be found on the relevant program information page. To be accepted onto one of our master’s degree programs we require the following supporting documentation: Personal identification document, e.g. passport or other identification. Official Degree Certificate and Transcript as evidence of a minimum of a USA Bachelor’s Degree or a recognized international equivalent. A personal statement (300-500 words) about why you want to study this program. Proof of English (POE) language proficiency where applicable. A Resume/CV and/or LinkedIn profile may be required for borderline applicants. The entry qualification documents are accepted in English only. Often you can get a suitable transcript from your School or University. If this is not the case, you will need official translations along with verified copies of the original. The entry qualification documents are accepted in the following languages: English. Often you can get a suitable transcript from your school. If this is not the case, you will need official translations along with verified copies of the original.

Entry qualification

Bachelor Degree

To be considered for one of our programs, you must have a USA Bachelor’s Degree or an internationally recognized equivalent, with a preferred GPA of 3.0 or above.

All applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and we will also consider applicants with a lower GPA. Professional experience is recognized in lieu of academic qualifications, and those with at least two years of relevant experience are strongly encouraged to apply. Please note that some of our programs may have specific prerequisites that are required for entry onto the program. This information can be found on the relevant program information page.

To be accepted onto one of our master’s degree programs we require the following supporting documentation:

Personal identification document, e.g. passport or other identification.
Official Degree Certificate and Transcript as evidence of a minimum of a USA Bachelor’s Degree or a recognized international equivalent.
A personal statement (300-500 words) about why you want to study this program.
Proof of English (POE) language proficiency where applicable.
A Resume/CV and/or LinkedIn profile may be required for borderline applicants.

The entry qualification documents are accepted in English only. Often you can get a suitable transcript from your School or University. If this is not the case, you will need official translations along with verified copies of the original.

The entry qualification documents are accepted in the following languages: English.

Often you can get a suitable transcript from your school. If this is not the case, you will need official translations along with verified copies of the original.

Language requirements	English International applicants are required to have one of the following English Language qualifications to be for considered for direct admission to any of our graduate programs: A TOEFL minimum score of 100 IELTS minimum score of 7 Duolingo minimum score of 120 Or an approved equivalent The university accepts many international qualifications in place of IELTS. A Proof of English Language Proficiency (POE) exemption may be offered to applicants who meet one of the following criteria: Completed at least 3 years of high school in an English-speaking country. Completed an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma in English. Completed a higher educational or professional qualification in English. Working in an English-speaking environment and demonstrably working in English.

Language requirements

English

International applicants are required to have one of the following English Language qualifications to be for considered for direct admission to any of our graduate programs:

A TOEFL minimum score of 100
*IELTS minimum score of 7
Duolingo minimum score of 120
Or an approved equivalent

*The university accepts many international qualifications in place of IELTS.

A Proof of English Language Proficiency (POE) exemption may be offered to applicants who meet one of the following criteria:

Completed at least 3 years of high school in an English-speaking country.
Completed an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma in English.
Completed a higher educational or professional qualification in English.
Working in an English-speaking environment and demonstrably working in English.

Other requirements	A statement of purpose must be added to your application. Your statement must outline why you want to study this program.

Other requirements

A statement of purpose must be added to your application.

Your statement must outline why you want to study this program.

Key Facts

Program Length: 24 Months
Credit Hours: 30
Total Classes: 10
Cost per Credit: $1,300

Enhance your career with a flexible and rigorous MS in Economics program from American University. Designed for professionals and recent graduates, this program provides advanced knowledge in economics and data-driven decision-making.

Through interactive coursework and real-world applications, you will gain:

Expert-Led Learning: Learn from distinguished faculty with experience in policy research, economic consulting, and government advisory roles.
Data Analysis and Economic Modeling: Master econometric techniques and data visualization tools to inform decision-making.
Flexible Study Options: Complete your coursework from anywhere with our fully online format.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with alumni, industry professionals, and faculty mentors to advance your career.

Download our Faculty Sheet to learn more about our distinguished faculty.

This program allows you to complete 10 courses over five semesters, earning your degree in less than two years while balancing your career and personal commitments.

A Career-Focused Curriculum

Coursework is designed to provide both theoretical foundations and practical applications in economics. The program emphasizes quantitative skills, policy analysis, and economic modeling. Through interactive projects and case studies, you will gain expertise in economic research and decision-making.

Specialized Courses Include:

Public Economics: Study government policies, taxation, and public spending.
Labor Economics: Analyze labor markets, wage trends, and employment dynamics.
Development: Examine the unique economic concerns in developing countries, including poverty, debt, and growth
Financial Markets: Understand banking systems, financial crises, and financial development

Download our Fact Sheet to read course descriptions for core and elective classes.

You’ll Gain:

Economic Data Analysis – Learn advanced econometric techniques and forecasting.
Policy Impact Assessment – Evaluate the effects of policy changes on economic outcomes.
Quantitative Research Skills – Develop expertise in statistical modeling and big data analytics.
Strategic Decision-Making – Apply economic theory to real-world policy and business challenges.

With a flexible, engaging online format, this program allows you to apply your learning immediately and advance your career in government, finance, international development, or consulting.

Graduates of the program excel in roles such as:

Economic Analysts – Evaluate data and forecast economic trends.
Policy Advisors – Provide economic insights to government agencies and think tanks.
Consultants – Work with corporations and organizations to optimize financial strategies.
Financial Analysts – Assess economic risks and investment opportunities.
Research Economists – Conduct advanced economic studies in academic or private sector roles.

As global economies evolve, the analytical and strategic thinking skills gained in this program will ensure you stay ahead in the field of economics.

Career Support for Lifelong Success

American University’s Career Center provides comprehensive job search support, career advising, internships, and scholarship opportunities—available to both current students and alumni worldwide.

With access to AU Career Web, an exclusive job-search platform, you can connect with recruiters and employers looking for top economics professionals.