QS Rank:

317

University of Illinois at Chicago

Illinois
,United States

Program Name
MA in Economics

Deadline
February 15th, 2024
Overview

The Master of Arts in Economics at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) is a comprehensive and rigorous program that offers students a profound understanding of economic theories and applications. This program is distinguished by its strong emphasis on Financial Economics, allowing students to explore the intricate relationships between finance and economics. Over the course of 24 months, students will engage in a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing them for a variety of roles in the finance sector, government, and academia. With a curriculum designed to develop critical analytical skills, the program is an ideal choice for those looking to make a significant impact in the economic landscape.
The curriculum includes a diverse range of courses such as Microeconomic Theory, Macroeconomic Theory, Econometrics, and specialized electives focusing on areas like Behavioral Economics and International Finance. Students will also have access to hands-on experience through projects and case studies that simulate real-world economic challenges. Additionally, the program encourages students to engage in independent research projects, fostering a culture of inquiry that is vital for understanding complex economic systems. This interactive and engaging curriculum is not only aimed at imparting knowledge but also at cultivating the skills needed to address pressing economic issues.
One of the standout features of the MA in Economics at UIC is its exceptional faculty, composed of leading scholars and practitioners in the field. Faculty members are dedicated to providing a stimulating learning environment, utilizing innovative teaching methodologies that emphasize collaborative learning and critical thinking. Students are encouraged to participate actively in discussions and hands-on activities, which enhances their understanding and retention of economic concepts. Moreover, faculty members are accessible to students, offering mentorship and guidance that can significantly enhance their academic and professional trajectories.
Research opportunities abound within the program, with students having access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources. The university features advanced research labs and is affiliated with several economic research centers, providing students with rich opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research. UIC also encourages collaboration with industry professionals, enabling students to work on projects that have real-world implications. This proactive approach not only enriches the academic experience but also prepares students for their future careers by providing them with essential skills and knowledge.
The program also boasts robust connections with various industries, which facilitate numerous internship opportunities for students. UIC's location in Chicago, one of the leading financial hubs in the United States, opens doors to numerous job placements and networking events. Students can connect with alumni and industry leaders through various career fairs and events hosted by the university, setting the stage for successful career launches. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to enter diverse sectors, including banking, finance, government, and consultancy, with a high employability rate.
In terms of career pathways, the UIC MA in Economics equips students not only with theoretical knowledge but also with the practical tools needed to navigate the job market. Alumni have successfully transitioned into roles such as financial analysts, economic consultants, policy advisors, and researchers in both public and private sectors. The university’s commitment to student success is reflected in the high rates of job placement and the ongoing support provided to graduates as they embark on their professional journeys.
Why Study Economics at University of Illinois at Chicago?
- A diverse and vibrant international student community that enriches the learning environment.
- Access to renowned faculty who are leaders in their fields and opportunities to work as research assistants.
- State-of-the-art research facilities and resources that enhance academic pursuits.
- Strong industry connections providing excellent internship and job placement opportunities.
- An emphasis on real-world applications of economic theory that prepares students for immediate employment.
- A comprehensive support system for students including career guidance and networking opportunities.
To be considered for admission into the MA in Economics program, applicants must meet specific requirements. A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is essential, along with a strong academic background in economics or related fields. Additionally, proficiency in English is required, demonstrated through standardized tests such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL, with minimum scores set for each exam. The application process includes submission of transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement detailing academic and professional aspirations. The program also requires a non-refundable application fee of $70, and the application deadline for the upcoming academic year is February 15th, 2024.
In conclusion, the MA in Economics at the University of Illinois at Chicago stands out as a premier choice for students seeking a deep understanding of economic principles and their applications. With its rigorous curriculum, exceptional faculty, abundant research opportunities, and strong industry connections, the program not only prepares students for successful careers but also equips them with the tools necessary to become influential leaders in the field of economics. Whether you aspire to work in finance, policy-making, or academia, UIC’s MA in Economics provides a solid foundation for your future endeavors.

Duration
24 Months
Ranking
#97
US World and News Report
#317
QS World University Rankings
Class Profile
Diversity
International:
10%Others:
5%African American:
18%Asian American:
15%Hispanic American:
14%White American:
48%Eligibility Criteria
English Proficiency Tests
IELTS
6.5
PTE
54
TOEFL
80
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: 70
Application Deadlines
Standard Deadline | |
---|---|
Fall | Feb 15, 2024 |
Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees
$21,660 / year
FAQs
- Admissions Requirements
To be considered for admission into the MA in Economics program at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), applicants must meet the following requirements:
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
- A strong academic background in economics or related fields.
- Proficiency in English, demonstrated through standardized tests such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL, with minimum scores set for each exam.
- Submission of transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement detailing academic and professional aspirations.
- A non-refundable application fee of $70.
The application deadline for the upcoming academic year is February 15th, 2024.
- Program Structure
The MA in Economics program at UIC is designed to be completed over the course of 24 months. The curriculum includes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing students for various roles in finance, government, and academia.
Key components of the program include:
- Core courses such as Microeconomic Theory, Macroeconomic Theory, and Econometrics.
- Specialized electives focusing on areas like Behavioral Economics and International Finance.
- Hands-on experience through projects and case studies simulating real-world economic challenges.
- Independent research projects to foster a culture of inquiry.
- Career Prospects
Graduates of the MA in Economics program at UIC are well-prepared to enter diverse sectors, including:
- Banking
- Finance
- Government
- Consultancy
Alumni have successfully transitioned into roles such as:
- Financial analysts
- Economic consultants
- Policy advisors
- Researchers in both public and private sectors
The university’s commitment to student success is reflected in the high rates of job placement and ongoing support provided to graduates as they embark on their professional journeys.
- Teaching Methods
The MA in Economics program at UIC utilizes innovative teaching methodologies that emphasize:
- Collaborative learning
- Critical thinking
Faculty members are dedicated to providing a stimulating learning environment, encouraging students to participate actively in discussions and hands-on activities. This approach enhances their understanding and retention of economic concepts.
Additionally, faculty members are accessible to students, offering mentorship and guidance to support their academic and professional trajectories.
- Unique Features
The MA in Economics program at UIC stands out due to several key features:
- Strong emphasis on Financial Economics, exploring the relationships between finance and economics.
- Exceptional faculty composed of leading scholars and practitioners in the field.
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and resources.
- Robust connections with various industries, facilitating internship opportunities.
- Location in Chicago, a leading financial hub, providing numerous job placements and networking events.
- Student Research and Engagement
The MA in Economics program encourages student engagement through:
- Hands-on experience via projects and case studies that simulate real-world economic challenges.
- Independent research projects that foster a culture of inquiry.
- Access to advanced research labs and collaboration with economic research centers.
- Opportunities to work on projects with industry professionals, enriching the academic experience and preparing students for future careers.
- Internship Opportunities
The MA in Economics program at UIC boasts strong industry connections that facilitate numerous internship opportunities for students. The program's location in Chicago, one of the leading financial hubs in the United States, opens doors to:
- Internships in various sectors including finance, banking, and consultancy.
- Networking events and career fairs that connect students with alumni and industry leaders.
These opportunities set the stage for successful career launches and enhance employability upon graduation.
- Career Development Support
UIC provides a comprehensive support system for students, which includes:
- Career guidance and counseling to help students navigate their career paths.
- Networking opportunities through various career fairs and events.
- Ongoing support for graduates as they enter the job market.
This commitment to student success is reflected in the high rates of job placement among graduates, who are well-prepared to embark on their professional journeys.
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