About the Program

The STEM-designated Master of Science in Economics provides rigorous training in economic theory, econometrics, and quantitative analysis. The program equips students with the analytical and technical skills needed to interpret complex data, build economic models, and make informed, data-driven decisions in today’s rapidly evolving global economy.

The degree requires 30 semester credit hours (SCH) to complete, including 12 SCH of core coursework and 18 SCH of elective or field courses. The core curriculum provides a strong foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and mathematical economics, while the elective and field courses allow students to tailor their studies to areas such as monetary economics, international economics, industrial organization, environmental economics, and other specialized topics.

The program emphasizes modern economic modeling, statistical programming, and data analytics tools widely used in industry and academia. Graduates leave with advanced proficiency in quantitative methods, strong problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to translate economic insights into actionable strategies.

As demand grows nationwide for professionals with advanced quantitative and data analysis skills, economists are increasingly sought after in finance, consulting, technology, healthcare, government, and international organizations. Regionally and nationally, employers value economists for their ability to analyze markets, evaluate policy, and guide strategic decision-making. The STEM MS in Economics responds directly to this demand while also providing excellent preparation for students pursuing doctoral study in economics or related fields.

Our program combines analytical rigor, technical training, and real-world relevance—preparing graduates to lead in data-intensive environments across the public and private sectors.

MS Qualifying Exam

The Graduate School requires students to complete a set of comprehensive examinations, referred to as qualifying examinations. Students in the MS program are required to take their qualifying exams at the end of the second semester (spring semester). Those who do not pass on the first attempt may retake the exams prior to the start of their third semester.

The qualifying examinations assess students’ overall mastery of core economic theory, with a primary focus on microeconomics and macroeconomics.

Degree Plan

Students need to fill out a degree plan in their second or third regular semester. The degree plan lists the courses that are going to be used to fulfill the coursework requirements discussed above. The plan may be changed with relatively little hassle, but it should be kept up to date because when the time comes to graduate, the Graduate School will check the degree plan against the courses the student has actually taken. 

Requirements 

There are two types of requirements - Graduate School requirements, and Department of Economics requirements.

Graduate School Requirements

• Domestic Applicants, please click here to see requirements
• International Applicants, please click here to see requirements

Department of Economics Requirements

• CV
• Transcript
• GRE score (not required but highly recommended)
• Statement of Purpose
• Minimum of one letter of recommendation

Contacting Us

Dr. Xiaohan Ma
Director of Graduate Studies

Email: xiaohan.ma@ttu.edu

Phone: 806.834.8373