The economics department offers a variety of graduate courses toward the completion of a Master of Arts degree.
Applicants to the M.A. program are expected to submit scores from the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) and prior coursework that demonstrates an aptitude for graduate study in economics. Students often have strong undergraduate training in economics, but some students have a strong quantitative background and little training in economics. Students whose native language is not English are also required to take the TOEFL examination. Admissions preference is given to students with TOEFL scores in the range of 100 (ITOTL) or above. Graduate assistantships and University Fellowships are not awarded to students studying for the M.A. degree or other non-terminal disciplinary degree. Courses available on a regular basis include microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, mathematical economics, public finance, economic development, international economics, and health economics. A student with strong undergraduate training and a good grasp of English who is able to study full time will be able to complete the degree in one calendar year. Students whose first language is not English, or who have little background in economics, typically require three semesters plus a summer.
Student Learning Outcomes
1. Master fundamental knowledge of microeconomic theory
2. Master fundamental knowledge of macroeconomic theory
3. Master fundamental knowledge of econometric methods
4. Explore synergies between economics and another subject (dual degree only)
Degree Requirements:
The M.A. degree requires 30 credits including 5 mandatory courses and 5 electives chosen in consultation with the M.A. degree Director. The cumulative grade point average for the courses taken towards credit for the M.A. degree must be 3.0 or higher.
The mandatory courses required for the M.A. degree include:
Each course of microeconomics theory and macroeconomic theory should be with a grade of B- or better.
For elective courses, students may take courses numbered between 500 and 599, but at least 15 credits must be at the 600 level or above. A student’s program may include 6 credits taken outside the Syracuse University Economics Department. This includes economics courses at the graduate level transferred from another institution or cognate courses taken in other departments at Syracuse University. The latter may be chosen only in consultation with the academic advisor. Though it uncommon, students can conduct independent research under the supervision of a faculty member, normally for 3 credits and occasionally for 6 credits in electives. This option requires the student to produce a substantial research paper (i.e., a master’s thesis) demonstrating a mastery of relevant economic theory and advanced statistical methods. The thesis must be defended in an oral examination and approved by the thesis committee.
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