When Arvind Sharma began his academic journey in the Master of Science in Applied Economics (MSAE) program at Boston College, he couldn’t have predicted he’d one day return as a faculty member. Today, as an assistant professor of the practice in applied economics at BC’s Woods College of Advancing Studies, Sharma brings that journey full circle in a role that leverages his academic research, real-world experience, and a passion for teaching. At this year’s Industry & Analytics Symposium, Sharma shared his thoughts on a wide range of topics, from the applied economics program to the field at large.
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Let’s start with an overview of the Master of Science in Applied Economics program. What can students expect?
The applied economics program is designed to give students an overview of the empirical skills used in the industry.
It includes 10 courses with five core classes that cover the fundamentals of economics, including topics such as microeconomic and macroeconomic theories, data analysis, and econometrics.
We then offer nearly 30 electives that give students the flexibility to pursue their field of interest, such as Banking and Compliance, Financial Modeling, Economic Forecasting, Development Economics, Marketing and Innovation, Environmental Economics, Healthcare Economics, and so on.
These courses allow students to specialize in areas of professional interest while building on the strong foundation of applied economics. We have quite a few fields, especially on the microeconomics side.
What kinds of skills are students developing through these courses?
Students learn to use statistical software, including popular programming languages like R and Python, for data analysis. They are also taught how to communicate, which is an essential professional skill. Our approach aims to develop both technical and interpersonal strengths, enabling students to deliver results effectively and persuade stakeholders to act on their analysis.
As the industry evolves, so do the skills and knowledge needed for many specialized positions. Besides events like this year’s Symposium, which focused on AI in 2025, how else would you say BC Woods prepares students for an AI-driven workforce?
We are a very hands-on program. We prepare students for the AI-driven world by teaching them not just about AI, but also by having them work with AI. We provide substantial exposure through the classroom and case competitions, poster presentations, and participation in the analytics symposium. Graduates are ready on day one to enter a business, understand the problem, and start implementing solutions that they’ve either learned in the program or have heard about through the activities we engage them in.
It’s not just talking about AI; it’s actually doing AI. And I think that is our distinct advantage, helping students be prepared for a world that is changing at a very rapid pace.
Speaking of going into the world, what can someone do with a master’s degree in applied economics?
Most graduates of the MSAE program end up working with data. They may end up in financial institutions as analysts, work as consultants, or even become data scientists. The underlying theme is that our graduates are critical thinkers who know how to use data to drive business insights and add value to whatever problem they’re solving.
We discussed the programs and possible outcomes. What else makes BC Woods stand out?
At Boston College, flexibility is at the heart of our approach. Many of our students are working professionals, and we make it possible to balance career, life, and academics—including the option to complete your degree fully online.
Our strong emphasis on ethics also sets us apart. Every student takes a course that ensures data is used responsibly to answer real-world questions—because impact without integrity isn’t enough.
Rooted in the Jesuit tradition, we offer more than academics. Our holistic, personalized approach means we see and support the whole student, fostering growth in mind, character, and purpose—both inside and outside the classroom.
You’re also a graduate of the program! Tell us a little about why you chose BC Woods.
I have always loved working with data, but what convinced me to choose the program was a conversation with the program director. I immediately felt how personalized the experience would be, with genuine concern for my interests, career and well-being.
That personalized touch—from the program director, administration and faculty—made it quite clear that Boston College was the right fit for me.
How did your experience as a student impact your decision to go on to earn your Ph.D. and then, ultimately, return to join the faculty?
The program was instrumental in helping me get into doctoral programs. First, it gave me research exposure, which is expected at the doctoral level. I was a graduate research assistant for professors whose classes I took, and that experience opened the floodgates to opportunities in research and mentorship.
Second, Woods College built my confidence. The encouragement and mentorship I received from accomplished professors made a real difference—showing me that even I could succeed, despite the stacked odds of being an international student in a new country. The community’s confidence in me meant a lot.
Returning to BC was always an easy choice. As a student, I had fond memories of campus events, O’Neill Library, and the vibrant community. Over the years, I stayed connected as an alumnus—presenting my research during my Ph.D., advising current students, and joining campus events. So when the faculty opportunity came, I felt propelled to return, as BC had remained a vital part of my professional journey and I wanted to give back to this community. And of course, being in Boston—a fun, cosmopolitan city—made the decision even simpler.
You seem to have found your fit here. What makes someone a good fit for the BC Woods Master’s in Applied Economics?
If a student is naturally curious, they will be a great fit for the program. We’re looking for people who are willing to think about questions from all angles.
We can train them in technical skills and provide the tools to analyze problems, but the foundation is an inquisitive mind: What is the problem? What is the data? Can I look at it in different ways? That, I think, is the most critical attribute: a curious mind. Everything else, we can teach.
What else would you say to someone who’s considering the applied economics master’s program?
To a prospective student, I would say just apply. We also hold information sessions almost monthly where they can come and engage with us. I would encourage them to challenge us and explore whether we are a good fit for them.
For us, it’s about delivering value to the students by helping them fulfill their dreams. We are happy to provide them with information and work together to see if we are the best fit for them.
Learn More About the Applied Economics Master’s Degree at BC Woods
Sharma is one of many expert, caring, and dedicated faculty members teaching the Woods M.S. in Applied Economics program. No matter how students choose to attend—online, on campus, or through a hybrid format—they benefit from the teaching and mentorship of faculty like Sharma. The program supports career changers, working professionals, and recent graduates alike, helping each develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a variety of fields.
If you’re curious about the MSAE program, consider taking the next step by requesting more information, attending an upcoming event, or starting your application.