
Illinois State University

Illinois
,United States

Program Name
Masters in Economics - Applied Community & Economic Development
Overview

The Master of Economics in Applied Community and Economic Development at Illinois State University is an esteemed program that offers a comprehensive exploration of economics with a focus on community and economic development. This program is designed for individuals seeking to make a significant impact in local and global economies through the application of economic theories and principles. With a curriculum tailored to meet the demands of today’s complex economic landscape, students will delve into a variety of topics such as economic policy analysis, community development strategies, and sustainable economic practices. The program equips students with the analytical and quantitative skills necessary to assess and influence economic conditions effectively.
At Illinois State University, students benefit from a rigorous academic framework that encourages critical thinking and innovation. The curriculum is meticulously structured, incorporating essential courses such as Microeconomic Theory, Macroeconomic Analysis, Econometrics, and Development Economics. Additionally, specialized electives allow students to tailor their studies to their interests, exploring areas like labor economics, environmental economics, and international trade. Students also engage in hands-on projects, case studies, and collaborative assignments that foster a practical understanding of theoretical concepts. This experiential learning approach ensures that graduates are not only academically proficient but also prepared for real-world challenges.
The faculty at Illinois State University is comprised of highly qualified professionals with extensive experience in both academia and the field. They bring a wealth of knowledge and insights into classroom discussions, enriching students’ understanding of complex economic issues. Faculty members are involved in groundbreaking research, and many of them serve as mentors, guiding students through their own research projects. The teaching methodology emphasizes student engagement and active participation, using a blend of lectures, discussions, and practical workshops to create a dynamic learning environment. This approach cultivates a culture of inquiry and independent thought, essential for aspiring economists.
Research opportunities are abundant within the program, with students encouraged to participate in various faculty-led projects and collaborations. Illinois State University provides access to state-of-the-art research facilities, including high-end laboratories and data analysis software, which facilitate comprehensive economic research. Students have the chance to work on community-based projects that not only contribute to their academic growth but also foster positive social change. By engaging with real economic issues and conducting empirical research, students develop skills that are highly valued in both the public and private sectors.
The program also boasts robust industry connections, offering students numerous internship possibilities and job placement programs. Illinois State University collaborates with a network of organizations, government agencies, and non-profits, providing students with exposure to various career pathways in economics. These internships serve as a vital bridge between academic learning and professional practice, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world settings. Graduates leave the program not only with a deep understanding of economic principles but also with valuable connections that can lead to career advancement.
Upon completion of the Master's in Economics, students are well-prepared for a multitude of career pathways. Graduates often find employment in sectors such as government, non-profit organizations, international agencies, and private industries, where they can take on roles such as economic analysts, policy advisors, and research specialists. The skills acquired during the program, such as statistical analysis, economic modeling, and strategic planning, are highly sought after in the job market. Employers appreciate the program’s emphasis on practical experience, which equips graduates to tackle economic challenges effectively.
Alumni of the program have gone on to achieve remarkable success in their respective fields, a testament to the quality of education they received at Illinois State University. Many alumni have secured prestigious positions in leading organizations and governmental bodies, contributing to impactful projects that drive economic growth and community development. Testimonials from graduates highlight the program's rigorous academic training, supportive faculty, and the extensive network of professionals that helped them launch their careers. These success stories inspire current and prospective students, showcasing the tangible benefits of pursuing a Master’s degree in Economics.
In addition to its strong academic offerings, the Master's in Economics program at Illinois State University is distinguished by its commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment. International students form a significant part of the student body, contributing to a rich tapestry of cultural perspectives and experiences. This diversity enhances classroom discussions and prepares students for a globalized workforce. The university also provides various support services, including academic advising, counseling, and career services, ensuring that all students have the resources they need to succeed.
To be considered for admission into the program, prospective students must fulfill specific requirements and prerequisites. Applicants are typically required to have a bachelor's degree in economics or a related field, along with a minimum GPA as mandated by the university. Additionally, proficiency in English is essential, and applicants must submit standardized test scores, such as the IELTS (with a minimum score of 6.5) or TOEFL (with a minimum score of 79). Other application components include a completed application form, a $50 application fee, and letters of recommendation that speak to the candidate's academic abilities and potential for success in the program.
Why Study Economics - Applied Community & Economic Development at Illinois State University
- A popular choice for international students with a diverse community that enriches the learning experience.
- Learn from distinguished faculty members who are experts in their fields and offer personalized mentorship opportunities.
- Access to advanced research facilities and high-end labs that support innovative economic research.
- Robust internship programs and industry connections that facilitate practical experience and post-graduation employment.
- A comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for various career pathways in economics, policy, and research.
Ranking
#1423
US World and News Report
Class Profile
Diversity
Asia:
25%Europe:
25%United States:
50%Others:
35%Illinois:
65%International:
50%North America:
25%Eligibility Criteria
English Proficiency Tests
IELTS
6.5
TOEFL
79
Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

Application Fee: 50
Application Deadlines
Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees
$14,909 / year
FAQs
To be considered for admission into the program, prospective students must fulfill specific requirements and prerequisites:
- A bachelor's degree in economics or a related field.
- A minimum GPA as mandated by the university.
- Proficiency in English, demonstrated through standardized test scores (IELTS with a minimum score of 6.5 or TOEFL with a minimum score of 79).
- A completed application form.
- A $50 application fee.
- Letters of recommendation that speak to the candidate's academic abilities and potential for success in the program.
The curriculum for the Master's in Economics at Illinois State University is meticulously structured and includes:
- Core courses such as:
- Microeconomic Theory
- Macroeconomic Analysis
- Econometrics
- Development Economics
- Specialized electives that allow students to explore specific interests, including:
- Labor economics
- Environmental economics
- International trade
- Hands-on projects, case studies, and collaborative assignments to foster practical understanding.
This structure ensures that students are well-prepared to tackle real-world economic challenges.
The teaching methodology in the Master's in Economics program emphasizes:
- Student engagement and active participation.
- A blend of lectures, discussions, and practical workshops.
- A dynamic learning environment that promotes critical thinking and independent inquiry.
Faculty members, who are highly qualified professionals, facilitate this learning environment through their insights and mentorship.
Upon completion of the Master's in Economics, graduates are well-prepared for various career pathways, including:
- Employment in government sectors.
- Positions in non-profit organizations.
- Roles in international agencies.
- Opportunities in private industries.
Common job titles include economic analysts, policy advisors, and research specialists. The program's emphasis on practical experience makes graduates highly sought after in the job market.
The Master's in Economics program provides abundant research opportunities, including:
- Participation in faculty-led projects and collaborations.
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities, including high-end laboratories and data analysis software.
- Engagement in community-based projects that contribute to academic growth and foster positive social change.
These opportunities allow students to develop skills that are highly valued in both public and private sectors.
Illinois State University offers robust industry connections that facilitate:
- Numerous internship possibilities.
- Job placement programs through collaborations with organizations, government agencies, and non-profits.
These internships serve as a crucial link between academic learning and professional practice, helping students apply their skills in real-world settings.
This program is distinguished by several key factors:
- A diverse and inclusive learning environment, with a significant international student body.
- Access to distinguished faculty members who offer personalized mentorship.
- State-of-the-art research facilities that support innovative economic research.
- Strong emphasis on practical experience through robust internship programs.
- A comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for various career pathways.
Illinois State University provides various support services to ensure student success, including:
- Academic advising.
- Counseling services.
- Career services.
These resources are designed to assist students throughout their academic journey and prepare them for their future careers.
Alumni of the Master's in Economics program have achieved remarkable success in their fields, with many securing prestigious positions in leading organizations and governmental bodies. They contribute to impactful projects that drive economic growth and community development. Testimonials from graduates highlight:
- The program's rigorous academic training.
- Supportive faculty guidance.
- The extensive network of professionals that facilitated their career launch.
These success stories demonstrate the tangible benefits of pursuing a Master’s degree in Economics at Illinois State University.
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