How Do I Get a Master's in Environmental Economics?

Getting a master’s in environmental economics usually requires five to six years of post-secondary education. Requirements for degree programs can vary by the university and the specific course of study, but a bachelor‘s degree is usually obtained first. An initial step towards earning a master’s degree is typically choosing a school to attend. Some of the classes involved in this degree include those in areas like environmental law, calculus for economics, and biology.

Earning a college degree can begin with completing a certificate program, which doesn't cover general education requirements and can be completed in approximately one year. A certificate program related to a master's in environmental economics could include coursework in natural resource economics and economics of the environment. Similarly, an associate degree usually requires two years of coursework and includes specialized subjects as well as general education classes. General education requirements vary, but often include courses in mathematics, history, language, and science.

A bachelor’s degree generally involves four years of study. Students may choose to obtain a bachelor’s degree rather than earning an associate's degree first. Bachelor's courses related to later obtaining a master's in environmental economic may include life sciences, such as biology courses, that focus on soil, water, wildlife, and forestry, as well as economics classes, particularly those that study natural resources. The amount of time required for earning a bachelor's degree depends on the student and the school. After obtaining a bachelor’s degree the student may begin the coursework for a master’s, although some colleges may allow concurrent studies.

Environmental economics programs typically study the management and development of natural resources, political institutions that govern policies, and renewable or fixed resources. Student’s pursuing a master’s in environmental economics can also choose to concentrate on various specialties. Choices can include public policy and its impact on clean water, global or regional food systems, and resource management. Economic policies and sustainability are key issues.

Variations within a master’s in environmental economics also include degrees in ecological and natural resource economics. The exact degree title and some of the coursework may vary, but the educational outcome will be similar. After completing a master’s in environmental economics many students choose to go on to obtain a doctoral, of PhD, degree.

Some students need financial assistance to obtain a master’s in environmental economics, and loans or grants may be available to them. Internships provide additional opportunities for financing an education and earning credits towards graduation. In addition, volunteering — with organizations such as the Peach Corps — can also offer valuable education, or life experience, and many institutions will give credit for service time.