M.S. in Applied Economics - Electricity, Natural Gas, and Telecommunications

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 Electricity, Natural Gas, and Telecommunications Economics Sequence is a structured program that combines training in basic economic theory and statistical methods with specialized training in the theory, history and institutions of economic of regulation. Students develop skills in analyzing regulatory policy and in communicating the results. In addition, students may have the opportunity to gain valuable practical experience as an intern with an employer in the telecommunications, electric power, or natural gas industries, or with an appropriate government agency. Three hours of credit is awarded for this internship experience. Graduates are awarded a Master's Degree in Applied Economics with a Sequence in Electricity, Natural Gas and Telecommunications Economics. Associated with the sequence is the Institute for Regulatory Policy Studies. The Institute provides a key link between the university and the telecommunications, electric power, and natural gas industries. Students selecting this 39-hour sequence will be prepared for effective and successful careers as economists, analysts and planners with firms in the natural gas, electric, and telecommunications industries. The option is also suitable for careers with governmental agencies responsible for the regulation of public utilities, consumer advocacy organizations, and firms providing consulting and ancillary services.