This is a cohort-based program and only offers summer intake, with classes typically starting in mid to late June

The minimum prerequisites for entry into the MA in Applied Economics program are as follows:

• 1 semester of calculus
• 1 semester of statistics
• 1 introductory-level course in economics (either microeconomics or macroeconomics)

Intermediate-level microeconomics and macroeconomics courses are recommended but not required. Economics is a highly quantitative discipline; therefore additional coursework in mathematics, statistics, or other quantitative subjects may further strengthen your application. An undergraduate degree in Economics is not required for admission.

Yes! Graduate-level courses in other departments can be taken as elective coursework with the permission of the program director (and of the other department, if required).

Yes, the MA in Applied Economics is designated as a STEM degree by the Department of Homeland Security for the purposes of international students pursuing a STEM OPT extension.

Our program does not offer an organized internship program, and we do not offer direct internship placements. If a student wishes to pursue an internship independently during their time in the program, we do have a credit mechanism available for internships that can be used as an elective with the approval of the program director.

International students may be subject to additional restrictions. Further information about employment for international students can be found on the Office of International Services website.

Any Applied MA student interested in pursuing a PhD must submit a complete PhD application for admission. All applications to the PhD program are considered on an individual basis.

For summer 2023 admission, GRE scores are optional. You may choose whether you wish to submit scores or not.

For students who do choose to submit scores, there is no minimum requirement. Among enrolled students, the average Quantitative score is 157, the average Analytical Writing score is 3.5 and the average Verbal score is 155. Official GRE scores should be submitted to UIC through ETS.

No, we only accept GRE scores. We do not accept scores for the GMAT or any other exam. However, for summer 2023 applicants to the MA in Applied Economics, GRE scores are optional. You may choose to submit no test scores at all.

Yes! But you need only complete one application.  There is a question on the PhD and MA Econ applications where you can indicate that you would also like to be considered for the MA in Applied Economics should your initial program application be denied.

We will accommodate late applications on a case-by-case basis. Please email econ@uic.edu for more information.

We do not offer any form of tuition waivers or scholarships for students in the MA in Applied Economics program. Our limited funding resources are reserved for Ph.D. students.

The MA in Applied Economics program is designated as a Full-Cost Recovery program, meaning students in the program are not eligible for any tuition waivers offered by the University.

Yes.  UIC is ranked in the top 15 most ethnically diverse universities in the United States.  An important resource driving change and promoting equity at UIC is the manifold voices, races, cultures, beliefs, identities, orientations and perspectives that inform the collective discourse.  The Applied Economics MA program embodies this diversity mission by attracting students from all backgrounds.

UIC is centrally located in Chicago’s booming West Loop neighborhood.   Located on the Blue Line with direct rail access to O’Hare International Airport, UIC has excellent public transportation connectivity within the city.  UIC is as much a part of Chicago’s legacy as a resilient, forward-thinking, gutsy metropolis, as Chicago is part of UIC’s legacy as an enterprising, broad-minded, spirited public research university accessible to all who aspire to achieve. UIC and the city look to one another for leadership, opportunities, and growth.

Yes. Email the program director, Kiana Yektansani at kianay@uic.edu to coordinate a visit.

Congratulations! Once you accept your offer of admission you will receive instructions should any more documents be needed from you.  Your journey at UIC will begin with an Applied Economics MA orientation in June prior to the commencement of the summer preparatory courses.  This orientation will introduce you to the Department of Economics, the Applied Economics MA program, and the physical layout of campus along with UIC’s connectivity with the rest of the city.