Complete in 12–20 Months
Master the Data Skills to Thrive Across Industries
Learn to analyze data, understand economic trends, and solve real-world problems in any industry with Boston College’s Master of Science in Applied Economics.
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Program Highlights
Pursue a Well-Paying Career
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, economists earned a median annual wage of $115,730 in 2023.
Gain Skills to Succeed in Any Industry
As a student in our program, you’ll acquire relevant, widely applicable skills that prepare you for success in a variety of industries.
Take Flexible Coursework for Working Professionals
Study full- or part-time online, on campus during the evening, or in any combination that works for you.
Study a Rigorous Curriculum to Prepare You to Thrive
You’ll gain a solid foundation in the theoretical and quantitative tools of economic analysis and can take electives in big data, health care economics, marketing research, and economic development.
Yes! I want to know more about the Master of Science in Applied Economics Degree
Overview
Students enrolled in Boston College Woods College of Advancing Studies’ M.S. in Applied Economics (M.S.A.E.) program are taught by accomplished academics and industry practitioners—and gain critical skills in practice-oriented data by learning to evaluate policies and programs, develop forecasts, study consumer behavior, and analyze market efforts.
Through hands-on educational experiences and a rigorous yet flexible, ethically focused curriculum, students graduate from the Boston College applied economics program with the knowledge and expertise to advance and thrive in any industry—and join a global alumni network of over 200,000. Whether you envision a future in finance, healthcare, international development, social policy, analytics, or government, we can equip you with the tools to succeed.
Key Dates & Deadlines
Academic Calendar
“After just one semester in the M.S.A.E. program, I have already been able to apply some of the concepts in everyday situations at work to solve problems around pricing and forecasting. Without training in statistical modeling programs like Stata and R that I received in the M.S.A.E. program, my solutions to these problems could not have been as accurate or robust.”
Michael D. Hanson ’18
Manager, New Product Development, Verizon Labs
Why Woods College of Advancing Studies?
Taught by industry-leading faculty, Woods programs are backed by Boston College’s 162-year tradition of excellence. Here, we’re committed to providing flexible learning options that fit your life, and our diverse community includes students with a wide range of backgrounds and lived experiences. No matter how you arrived at Woods, our caring faculty and staff are committed to helping you thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Students in the online Master of Science in Applied Economics program are required to take 10 classes, for a total of 30 credits. Students can earn their master’s in economics online in 12 months (full time) or 20 months (part time). This timeline may vary depending on how many credits you take each semester.
Yes. Students must take Principles of Microeconomics, Principles of Macroeconomics, Statistics, Calculus I, and Calculus II (Calculus II may be taken concurrently during the first semester of study). This requirement also can be fulfilled by taking Mathematics for Economists (ADEC3510). Please note, however, that this course does not count toward the degree. For additional information on fulfilling prerequisites, please contact an enrollment advisor.
Yes. Students have a variety of options to fund their education. Request more information, and an enrollment advisor will contact you to answer your questions.
Connecting with an enrollment advisor will help you:
- Understand the Boston College applied economics admissions criteria
- Gain insight into application best practices and how to submit a strong application
- Know what to expect in your online classroom, including the level of faculty engagement and program outcomes
- Have an immediate line of support if you have questions or need clarification about the Master of Science in Applied Economics program
Are You Ready to Gain Hands-on Experience, Forge Valuable Connections, and Prepare for a Rewarding Career as an Economist?
Apply to our Master of Science in Applied Economics program today.
Begin Your Journey