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Prerequisites

Applicants to the M.A. in Economics must show strong capability to complete Ph.D.-level work. M.A. in Economics applicants must meet the same admission and prerequisite requirements as Ph.D. applicants. Because of this, students will often choose to apply directly to the Ph.D. program rather than applying to the M.A. in Economics. For both programs, applicants should have strong quantitative and analytical skills. Your undergraduate degree does not have to be in economics, but a good background in economics and mathematics is necessary.

All graduate applicants must have a four-year undergraduate degree in order to be eligible for admission to UIC. Please note that three-year undergraduate degrees common in certain countries (e.g. India and Pakistan) will not be sufficient for admission to any of UIC's graduate programs. Normally applicants from these countries need to have completed a master's degree in addition to their bachelor's degree.

Prerequisite Requirements for M.A. in Economics Heading link

  • Three semesters of calculus
  • One semester of linear algebra
  • One semester of statistics or econometrics
  • Coursework through the intermediate level in both microeconomics and macroeconomics.

Undergraduate courses in mathematical economics and econometrics are also recommended. Strong writing and communication skills are necessary for success in the program.

Students who have not met these requirements are encouraged to consider our MA in Applied Economics.