Best Online Master’s in Economics
Money may make the world go round, but the world needs economists to understand how to manage it.
Students in Master’s in Economics degree programs receive valuable analytical and quantitative training in the field of economics necessary to success in a variety of professional roles. Graduates have the opportunity to become a leader or analyst in banking, investment and wealth management, international finance and economics, corporate financial management, and in a variety of other sectors. Some graduates go on to acquire a Ph.D. in Economics to become a university professor or research economist.
A traditional Master’s in Economics program does not work for all students, however; online programs may better suit the needs of busy individuals with full–time jobs or familial obligations. This article ranks the 15 best online Master’s in Economics degrees available today.
The Best Online Master’s in Economics Programs
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Georgia Southern University, located in Statesboro, enrolls master's students in its online economics program. The master of science in applied economics program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, candidates often advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the economics field. Learners complete electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants without a degree in economics or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Georgia Southern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of science in applied economics
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,977
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,890
- In-State$4,371
- Out-of-state$15,425
- In-State$4,977
- Out-of-state$19,890
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate54%
- Students Enrolled26,054
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Purdue University
- West Lafayette, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in West Lafayette, Indiana, Purdue University hosts a top-ranked master's in economics program. The online master of science in economics program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new professional path.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches to economics. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with a background in economics typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Purdue University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 60%
Total Online Master's Programs: 20
Program Name: Online master of science in economics
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,208
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,010
- In-State$9,208
- Out-of-state$28,010
- In-State$9,208
- Out-of-state$28,010
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate60%
- Students Enrolled45,500
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
University of North Dakota
- Grand Forks, ND
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Grand Forks, the University of North Dakota offers an online master's in economics. The master of science in applied economics and predictive analytics program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. After earning a master's degree, candidates may also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in economics or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
University of North Dakota at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 28
Program Name: Master of science in applied economics and predictive analytics
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,534
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,434
- In-State$8,212
- Out-of-state$14,371
- In-State$10,534
- Out-of-state$18,434
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled13,581
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
University of Missouri
- Columbia, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Columbia, the University of Missouri hosts a top-rated online master's in economics. The master of arts in economics program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches to economics. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants with prior experience in economics or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
University of Missouri at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 21
Program Name: Master of arts in economics
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,264
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,363
- In-State$9,120
- Out-of-state$26,991
- In-State$9,264
- Out-of-state$25,363
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled30,014
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
American University
- Washington, DC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's degree in economics at American University, located in Washington, offers high academic quality. The online MA in economics with an applied economics specialization uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on economics. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in economics or a related field.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
American University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 36%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Online MA in economics with an applied economics specialization
Graduate Tuition In State: $30,351
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $30,351
- In-State$49,070
- Out-of-state$49,070
- In-State$30,351
- Out-of-state$30,351
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate36%
- Students Enrolled14,318
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment20%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Masters
Economics
2023
Online Master’s in Economics Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Rankings MethodologyWhat is a Master’s in Economics Degree?
Master’s in Economics degrees come in a variety of forms, including a Master’s of Science, Master’s of Arts, and Master’s of Business Administration programs. While each comes with unique qualities and concerns, all provide a strong grounding in core principles of economics. The curricula for these programs typically include coursework in economic theories, econometrics, financial analysis, statistics, mathematics, and implementing economic research. Some programs may include field experience or capstone components.
An MA in Economics may place greater emphasis on the research and theoretical aspects of economics, preparing students for careers in research or academic roles. An MS in Economics typically utilizes a more technical and practical approach, focusing on the application of economic principles in real–time, and preparing students for active careers in the public or private sectors. An MBA program treats economics as a specialization on top of core MBA coursework. Students in MBA programs engage with fundamental business administration concepts, alongside specialized courses in economic principles and practices, to prepare for leading economic roles in corporations and financial institutions.
How Long Does it Take to Complete an Online Master’s in Economics Degree?
Like most master’s degree programs, a Master’s in Economics degree typically takes two years to complete. However, some schools offer accelerated programs that may be completed in as quickly as one year, and some offer part–time programs that may be completed in three to six years.
Master’s in Economics Degree Careers
Individuals holding a Master’s in Economics degree may pursue a variety of careers, including:
- Actuary
- Compensation and benefits manager
- Credit analyst
- Data scientist
- Econometrician
- Economic consultant
- Economist
- Financial analyst
- Financial manager
- Lawyer
- Management consultant
- Market researcher
- Policy analyst
- Professor
- Statistician
Master’s in Economics Degree Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2023 economists saw a median annual salary of $115,730. The following information portrays median annual salaries earned by economists in their top five industries for employment:
| Career | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Federal government, excluding postal service | $135,200 |
| Management, scientific, and technical consulting services | $110,120 |
| Scientific research and development services | $140,940 |
| Local government, excluding education and hospitals | $91,980 |
| State government, excluding education and hospitals | $74,900 |
Master’s in Economics Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the job field for economists will grow from 2023–2033 at a rate of 5%, as fast as average for all other occupations
Economics Professional Organizations
American Economic Association
Founded in 1885, the AEA has dedicated itself to the advancement of the field of economics for well over a century. Its membership, now greater than 20,000, includes individuals from all areas of involvement in economics. Membership comes with numerous benefits, including a large professional network, access to events and conventions, honors and awards, and access to resources and publications.National Association for Business Economics
The NABE connects economics professionals with the goal of encouraging development, discourse, and the spread of information. NABE formed in 1959. Membership includes access to professional resources and publications, networking opportunities, and events and conventions.Header Image Credit: Thomas Barwick | Getty Images
