M.S. in Applied Economics - Applied Community and Economic Development

If the prospect of a well-paying job as an economist, analyst, or planner in the private or public sectors appeals to you, Illinois State University offers a very special graduate degree in applied economics that you should know about. Our program emphasizes applied economics with a curriculum that links basic economic theory and statistical techniques to "real world" problems faced by decision makers. Students completing the degree are qualified to seek employment in management as professional economists or research analysts. The program is also well suited for individuals who wish to return to school to obtain a graduate degree in a business-related discipline for the purpose of career advancement. While the curriculum is structured as a terminal degree in applied economics, many graduates have advanced to doctoral-level programs in economics and in related disciplines. The Applied Community and Economic Development sequence is a multidisciplinary program with the departments of Politics and Government and Sociology-Anthropology. The sequence is designed for Peace Corps volunteers who have returned from the field and wish to acquire graduate-level training to build on their Peace Corps experience, students with experiences equivalent to Peace Corps, and students who wish to combine a graduate degree with Peace Corps experience. As a part of the program, students fulfill a significant internship experience. As of now, students have completed internships with rural economic development organizations, community colleges, Indian reservations, urban organizations such as the Chicago Housing Authority, and Peace Corps. Up to five hours of credit is awarded for this internship experience. Graduates are awarded a Master's Degree in Applied Economics with a Sequence in Applied Community and Economic Development. Associated with the sequence is the Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development. The Center plays an important role in connecting the university with the community, and it plays a vital role in identifying internships and financial support for the program. Students pursuing this 39-hour sequence will receive a solid and relevant educational opportunity to pursue careers in community and economic development in the United States and around the world.