Written By - Daniel D'Souza
Last Updated: July 04, 2026
Online Master's in Economics

What Is an Online Master’s in Economics?

An online master’s in economics is a graduate degree that develops advanced skills in economic theory, quantitative analysis, and policy evaluation — delivered through flexible online formats that let working professionals study without relocating. Programs typically require 30–36 credits and take one to three years depending on enrollment pace.

Economics master’s programs differ from adjacent graduate degrees in important ways. Unlike an online MBA , which trains general business leaders, an economics master’s focuses on analytical frameworks for understanding markets, public policy, and resource allocation. It’s also distinct from an online master’s in finance , which emphasizes corporate finance and investment management, and from an online master’s in public administration, which centers on organizational management within government and nonprofit sectors. Economics sits at the intersection of these fields but maintains its own identity through rigorous training in microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, econometrics, and research methodology.

Online delivery formats vary significantly. Some programs use fully asynchronous models that let students complete coursework on their own schedule — ideal for professionals balancing full-time work. Others use cohort-based structures with scheduled live sessions, discussion deadlines, and group projects that mirror a traditional classroom experience. A growing number of programs offer hybrid options, requiring occasional on-campus intensives or proctored exams. Understanding which delivery model a program uses matters as much as the curriculum itself, because it determines how the degree fits into your daily life.

How We Evaluate Online Economics Programs

The programs featured on this page were evaluated using a consistent set of criteria designed to reflect what actually matters for online graduate students in economics. We prioritize institutional and programmatic accreditation — regional accreditation is a baseline, and we note when programs carry additional recognition relevant to economics or business disciplines. Faculty credentials matter: programs staffed by active researchers or professionals with doctoral training in economics receive stronger consideration than those relying primarily on adjunct instructors.

  • Curriculum rigor is assessed by examining core coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, as well as the depth and variety of available specializations. Flexibility is evaluated based on delivery format, enrollment options (full-time, part-time, accelerated), and whether the program accommodates working professionals. We also weigh publicly available tuition data, financial aid availability, and career outcomes where reported — including employment rates, salary data, and alumni placement in relevant fields. No single criterion overrides the others; the goal is to surface programs that are strong across multiple dimensions rather than exceptional in one area and weak in others.
Southern New Hampshire University
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Southern New Hampshire University

PROGRAM: Best & Affordable Online Masters Programs

Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on-campus students and over 60,000 online students, making us one of the fastest-growing universities in the country. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.

We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, over our innovative online platform or at our regional centers in Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth and Salem, NH, and Brunswick, ME.

SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.

Best Online Master’s in Economics Programs

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The team at Online Master’s Colleges has created a custom methodology to determine the best higher education programs in economics in the United States. Several factors, such as – the quality of each program, graduation rates, program structure and curriculum, the quality and experience of the faculty, flexibility of online courses, etc., have been carefully considered. Based on this methodology and a thorough school search, here are the top 15 school rankings for an online economic degree:

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The following programs represent a curated selection of online master’s in economics and closely related applied economics degrees. Each program was evaluated against the criteria above, and every card includes an honest assessment of strengths and limitations. University names link to detailed evaluation pages where available.

  • Degree: MS in Applied Economics
  • Credits: 36
  • Tuition Range: ~$55,000–$60,000 total
  • Format: Fully online, asynchronous with some synchronous options
  • Specializations: Financial Economics, Public Policy Economics, Spatial Economics, Health Economics
  • GRE Required: No
  • Notable Features: Taught through the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences; strong quantitative emphasis with real-world data projects; access to DC-area policy networks.


Johns Hopkins’ applied economics program is one of the most recognized online economics degrees in the country, with a curriculum that balances rigorous econometric training with practical policy applications. The program’s location-agnostic format and strong faculty make it a standout. The tradeoff is cost — at roughly $55,000–$60,000 total, it’s among the most expensive options, and financial aid for online students is limited compared to on-campus peers.

Compare Online Economics Programs

The comparison table below consolidates key decision factors across the featured programs. Use it to quickly identify which programs match your priorities — whether that’s minimizing cost, avoiding the GRE, accessing specific specializations, or attending a particular type of institution. Tuition figures reflect approximate total program costs and may vary based on residency, credit load, and fee structures.

UniversityDegree TypeCreditsTuition (Total Est.)GRE Required?SpecializationsFormatAccreditation
Johns Hopkins UniversityMS in Applied Economics36$55,000–$60,000NoFinancial Econ, Policy, Spatial, HealthFully OnlineMSCHE
Indiana University OnlineMA in Economics30$15,000–$22,000RecommendedApplied Micro, Public Finance, EconometricsFully OnlineHLC
Northeastern UniversityMS in Economics36$50,000–$55,000OptionalData Analytics, Financial Markets, UrbanFully OnlineNECHE
Boston UniversityMA in Economics32$35,000–$40,000NoQuantitative Methods, Financial Markets, PolicyFully OnlineNECHE
University of FloridaMA in Economics30$10,000–$13,000YesGeneral EconomicsFully OnlineSACSCOC
Arizona State UniversityMA in Economics30$22,000–$25,000Conditional WaiverApplied Econometrics, Policy AnalysisFully OnlineHLC
George Washington UniversityMA in Applied Economics33$45,000–$52,000OptionalInt’l Policy, Development, RegulatoryFully OnlineMSCHE
Penn State World CampusMPS in Applied Economics33$30,000–$35,000NoData Analytics, Financial, EnvironmentalFully OnlineMSCHE
University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignMS in Applied Economics32$20,000–$28,000YesPolicy Economics, Quantitative MethodsFully OnlineHLC
American UniversityMA in Economics36$40,000–$48,000OptionalApplied, Gender Analysis, InternationalFully OnlineMSCHE

Several patterns emerge from the comparison. Cost variation is dramatic: the University of Florida’s program runs roughly $10,000–$13,000 total, while Northeastern and Johns Hopkins exceed $50,000. This five-fold range means program selection should start with a clear budget. GRE requirements are declining across the field — six of the ten featured programs either don’t require the GRE or offer waiver pathways, reflecting a broader trend in graduate economics admissions. Credit requirements cluster between 30 and 36, with the difference affecting both time-to-completion and total cost. Specialization availability varies widely: students who already know they want to focus on health economics, environmental economics, or international development should filter first on specialization availability rather than overall program reputation.

Economics Degree Types: MS vs. MA vs. MBA

Not all master’s degrees in economics are structured the same way, and choosing the wrong degree type is one of the most consequential mistakes a prospective student can make. The three primary structures — Master of Science (MS), Master of Arts (MA), and MBA with an economics concentration — serve different professional goals, require different skill sets, and lead to different career trajectories.

Master of Science (MS) in Economics

The MS in Economics emphasizes quantitative methods, statistical modeling, and data-driven economic analysis. Core coursework typically includes advanced econometrics, mathematical economics, and computational methods. This degree is designed for students with strong undergraduate training in mathematics or statistics who want to work as economists, quantitative analysts, or data scientists — or who plan to pursue doctoral study. MS programs generally require more prerequisite math (calculus through linear algebra, probability and statistics) and produce graduates who are most competitive in technical roles at consulting firms, financial institutions, tech companies, and research organizations.

Master of Arts (MA) in Economics

The MA in Economics focuses more heavily on economic theory, policy analysis, and qualitative research alongside quantitative training. While MA programs still require econometrics and statistical methods, they typically place greater emphasis on writing, critical analysis, and applied policy work. This degree suits students targeting careers in government economics, think tanks, international organizations, and nonprofit policy research. MA programs are often more accessible to students whose undergraduate backgrounds are in social sciences or liberal arts rather than STEM fields, though foundational courses in statistics and microeconomics are still expected.

MBA with Economics Concentration

An MBA with an economics concentration layers economic analysis onto a broader business management curriculum. Students take core MBA courses in accounting, marketing, operations, and strategy alongside electives in economic theory, forecasting, and regulatory economics. This degree is best for professionals who want to apply economic thinking to business decision-making — pricing strategy, market analysis, competitive intelligence — rather than conduct independent economic research. MBA-Economics graduates typically pursue management roles in corporations, consulting firms, or startups rather than economist positions. The tradeoff is depth: MBA-Economics students get less econometrics and less theory than MS or MA graduates, which limits their competitiveness for pure economist roles.

Which Degree Type Is Right for You?

The following table summarizes the key differences across the three degree types.

Degree TypeFocusTypical StudentCareer AlignmentQuantitative Rigor
MS in EconomicsQuantitative methods, modeling, data analysisSTEM undergrads, aspiring PhD students, quant analystsData scientist, quantitative analyst, research economistHigh — advanced math/stats required
MA in EconomicsEconomic theory, policy analysis, applied researchSocial science undergrads, policy professionalsPolicy analyst, government economist, think tank researcherModerate — econometrics required, less math-heavy
MBA in EconomicsBusiness strategy with economic frameworksBusiness professionals, managers, entrepreneursBusiness analyst, management consultant, corporate strategistLower — economics applied within business context

Choose an MS if you have a strong quantitative background, want to work in data-intensive roles, or are considering doctoral study in economics. The MS provides the deepest technical training and is most competitive for economist titles at federal agencies, research institutions, and tech companies.

Choose an MA if your goal is policy work, government economics, or positions at international organizations like the World Bank or IMF. The MA offers enough quantitative training to be credible in analytical roles while developing the writing and policy analysis skills these employers prioritize.

Choose an MBA-Economics if you’re a working professional who wants economic thinking integrated into business leadership. This is the right choice if you see economics as a lens for business decisions rather than a primary career identity. If you’re weighing this option, compare it against general MBA programs to determine whether the economics concentration adds enough specialization to justify choosing it over a broader MBA.

Specializations in Economics

One of the most important program decisions is whether to pursue a general economics curriculum or specialize. Specializations shape your coursework, your thesis or capstone topic, and ultimately your career trajectory. Not every program offers every specialization below — some are only available at a handful of institutions — so identifying your target concentration early can narrow your program search significantly.

Econometrics and Quantitative Economics

Econometrics focuses on applying statistical and mathematical methods to economic data to test hypotheses, forecast trends, and evaluate policy impacts. Students in this specialization take advanced coursework in time-series analysis, panel data methods, machine learning for economics, and causal inference. This concentration is ideal for students targeting careers as research economists, data scientists, or quantitative analysts in finance and tech. It’s the most math-intensive economics specialization and typically requires strong prerequisites in linear algebra and probability. Students drawn to pure data work may also want to explore an online master’s in data analytics , though data analytics programs are generally more applied and less theory-driven than econometrics.

Financial Economics

Financial economics applies economic theory to financial markets, asset pricing, risk management, and monetary policy. Coursework typically covers portfolio theory, derivatives pricing, financial regulation, and behavioral finance. This specialization bridges economics and finance, preparing graduates for roles at investment banks, hedge funds, central banks, and financial regulatory agencies. Students should understand the distinction from a pure finance master’s : financial economics emphasizes the economic frameworks underlying financial markets, while finance programs focus more on corporate finance mechanics, financial planning, and accounting-adjacent skills.

Public Economics and Policy

Public economics examines government intervention in markets — taxation, public spending, social insurance, and the economics of regulation. Students study welfare economics, cost-benefit analysis, and the design of public policy. This specialization aligns well with careers at government agencies (Congressional Budget Office, Federal Reserve, state budget offices), think tanks, and international development organizations. It’s a natural fit for students who want to use economic analysis to evaluate and shape policy rather than work in the private sector. Students interested in the management side of public service, rather than the analytical side, might also consider an online master’s in public administration.

Health Economics

Health economics analyzes how healthcare markets function, how health insurance systems affect access and outcomes, and how to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of medical interventions. Coursework typically covers healthcare market structure, pharmaceutical economics, health policy evaluation, and insurance design. Graduates work for hospital systems, health insurers, pharmaceutical companies, public health agencies, and consulting firms specializing in healthcare. This is one of the fastest-growing areas of applied economics, driven by rising healthcare costs and ongoing policy debates. Johns Hopkins’ applied economics program is one of the few online options with a dedicated health economics track.

International and Development Economics

International and development economics studies trade, foreign direct investment, exchange rate dynamics, and economic growth in developing countries. Coursework covers international trade theory, development microeconomics, aid effectiveness, and the economics of migration. This specialization is designed for students pursuing careers with international organizations (World Bank, IMF, USAID, United Nations), foreign affairs agencies, and NGOs focused on global development. George Washington University and American University — both located in D.C. with direct access to international policy organizations — offer particularly strong programming in this area.

Environmental and Resource Economics

Environmental and resource economics applies economic analysis to environmental policy, natural resource management, and sustainability. Students study climate change economics, emissions trading systems, energy markets, and the valuation of ecosystem services. This concentration prepares graduates for careers at environmental agencies (EPA, state environmental departments), energy companies, consulting firms, and climate-focused nonprofits. Penn State World Campus is one of the few programs offering a dedicated environmental economics specialization in an online applied economics format. As climate policy becomes increasingly central to corporate and government decision-making, demand for environmental economists continues to grow.

Behavioral Economics

Behavioral economics integrates insights from psychology into economic models, examining how cognitive biases, heuristics, and social influences shape decision-making. Coursework covers prospect theory, nudge theory, experimental methods, and the design of choice architectures. This specialization is relatively new as a formal graduate concentration, and few fully online programs offer it as a standalone track — it’s more commonly available as a set of electives within a broader MA or MS program. Graduates work in consumer research, product design, public policy (particularly “nudge units”), and marketing analytics. American University’s program includes relevant coursework in this area.

Applied Economics

Applied economics is the broadest specialization category, focusing on using economic tools to solve real-world problems across industries. Rather than deep theoretical training, applied economics programs emphasize practical skills: data collection, statistical analysis, cost-benefit evaluation, and policy assessment. This concentration suits students who want flexibility in their career direction rather than committing to a narrow field early. Many online programs — including those at Johns Hopkins, Penn State, and Indiana University — use “applied economics” as either their primary degree designation or a major concentration track. It’s the right choice for generalists who want versatile skills rather than deep domain expertise.

Admissions Requirements for Online Economics Programs

Admissions requirements for online master’s in economics programs vary by institution and degree type, but most share a common set of expectations.

  • Undergraduate degree: A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution is universally required. Most programs prefer applicants with undergraduate coursework in economics, but many accept students from related fields — mathematics, statistics, political science, or business — provided they meet prerequisite requirements.
  • Prerequisite coursework: The most common prerequisites are intermediate microeconomics, intermediate macroeconomics, statistics, and calculus. MS programs typically require more advanced math preparation (linear algebra, multivariable calculus), while MA programs may accept students with just introductory statistics and economics. Some programs offer prerequisite courses or bridge programs for career changers.
  • GRE/GMAT: Standardized test requirements have shifted significantly. As the comparison table above shows, six of the ten featured programs either don’t require the GRE or offer waiver pathways — typically for applicants with relevant work experience (3–5 years), strong GPAs (3.0+), or graduate coursework. Programs at the University of Florida and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign still require the GRE, reflecting their more research-oriented admissions criteria.
  • Letters of recommendation: Most programs require two to three letters, preferably from academic references who can speak to the applicant’s quantitative abilities and research potential. Professional references are often accepted for experienced applicants.
  • Statement of purpose: A well-articulated statement explaining career goals, research interests, and reasons for choosing the specific program is standard. Programs with policy orientations (George Washington, American University) tend to weight this component more heavily.
  • Minimum GPA: Most programs expect a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, though some will consider lower GPAs alongside strong test scores, work experience, or prerequisite performance.

How Long Does an Online Master’s in Economics Take?

Completion timelines for online economics master’s programs depend on credit requirements, enrollment pace, and whether the program is structured for cohort-based or self-paced progression.

Standard timeline (full-time): Most full-time students complete a 30–36 credit program in approximately two years (four semesters). This is the most common path and allows students to take a manageable courseload of 9–12 credits per semester.

Accelerated timeline: Some programs allow students to complete coursework in 12–18 months by enrolling in summer terms, taking heavier courseloads, or entering with transfer credits. Students pursuing an accelerated online master’s should confirm whether the program permits acceleration — not all cohort-based programs allow it.

Part-time timeline: Working professionals taking one to two courses per semester typically finish in 2.5–3 years. Most online economics programs are designed to accommodate part-time enrollment, making this the most popular path among working adults. Programs at Arizona State University and Boston University are explicitly designed for part-time professionals.

Credit requirements range from 30 (Indiana University, University of Florida, Arizona State) to 36 (Johns Hopkins, Northeastern, American University). The six-credit difference translates to roughly one additional semester for full-time students, so this is worth considering when comparing total time and cost commitment.

Cost and Financial Aid for Economics Graduate Programs

Tuition for online master’s in economics programs ranges from approximately $10,000 to over $60,000 for the full program, making cost one of the most variable factors in program selection.

Public universities generally offer the lowest tuition, with programs at the University of Florida ($10,000–$13,000), Indiana University ($15,000–$22,000), and Arizona State University ($22,000–$25,000) representing the most affordable options. Some public universities extend in-state tuition rates to all online students regardless of residency, which dramatically reduces costs.

Private universities typically charge higher tuition, with programs at George Washington University ($45,000–$52,000), Northeastern University ($50,000–$55,000), and Johns Hopkins ($55,000–$60,000) at the top of the range. The premium reflects brand recognition, faculty expertise, and — in the case of D.C.-based schools — access to policy networks, but students should evaluate whether these advantages justify the added cost for their specific career goals.

Financial aid options include:

  • Federal student aid: Online students at accredited institutions are eligible for federal loans (Direct Unsubsidized Loans, Grad PLUS Loans) by completing the FAFSA.
  • Graduate assistantships: Some programs offer part-time research or teaching assistantships to online students, though these are more common for on-campus students. Indiana University and UIUC are among programs that extend assistantship opportunities to online graduate students.
  • Employer tuition reimbursement: Many employers offer tuition assistance for graduate programs — this is particularly common in government, financial services, and consulting, where economics degrees are directly career-relevant.
  • Scholarships and fellowships: Program-specific scholarships are available at many institutions, though they tend to be smaller for online students. Students should also search for external scholarships from economics professional organizations.

For a broader perspective on graduate program costs, see our guide to the most affordable online master’s programs.

Career Paths with a Master’s in Economics

A master’s in economics opens career paths across government, private industry, finance, consulting, and academia. The specific roles available to you depend heavily on your degree type and specialization, so career planning should be integrated with program selection from the start.

Career PathMedian SalaryDegree Type AlignmentGrowth Outlook
Economist$113,940MS, MA6% (faster than average)
Financial Analyst$99,010MS (Financial Econ), MBA8% (faster than average)
Policy Analyst$65,000–$90,000MA, MPA-adjacentSteady
Data Scientist / Quantitative Analyst$108,020MS (Econometrics)35% (much faster than average)
Management Consultant$100,530MBA-Economics, MA11% (faster than average)
Market Research Analyst$74,680MA, MBA-Economics13% (faster than average)
Academic Researcher / LecturerVaries ($60,000–$95,000)MS, MA (PhD-track)Stable

Salary data from BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook (2024) where available; policy analyst and academic researcher ranges reflect composite estimates.

Economist: The most direct career path, employed by federal agencies (Bureau of Labor Statistics, Federal Reserve, Treasury Department), consulting firms, and research organizations. MS and MA graduates both qualify, though MS graduates are more competitive for research-intensive roles. BLS projects 6% growth through 2032.

Financial Analyst: Economics graduates with a financial economics specialization or strong quantitative training compete effectively for financial analyst positions in banking, investment management, and corporate finance. The MS in Economics and MBA-Economics are both relevant, with the MS providing more analytical depth and the MBA offering broader business context.

Policy Analyst: Government agencies, think tanks, and advocacy organizations hire policy analysts to evaluate proposed legislation, model economic impacts, and advise decision-makers. The MA in Economics is the most natural fit, particularly programs with public economics or policy specializations.

Data Scientist / Quantitative Analyst: This is the highest-growth career path on the list. Economics graduates with strong econometrics training, programming skills (R, Python, Stata), and experience with large datasets compete directly with computer science and statistics graduates for data science roles. The MS in Economics with an econometrics or quantitative focus is the best preparation.

Management Consultant: Consulting firms hire economics graduates to conduct market analysis, develop pricing strategies, and advise on competitive dynamics. The MBA-Economics and MA both align well, though the MBA’s broader business training may be preferred by general consulting firms.

Market Research Analyst: These roles involve studying market conditions to identify potential sales opportunities, using surveys, statistical analysis, and economic modeling. This is the most accessible career path for MA graduates without deep quantitative specialization.

Academic Researcher / Lecturer: A master’s degree qualifies graduates to teach at the community college level and to work as research associates at universities and think tanks. Students targeting tenure-track faculty positions will need a PhD, but a strong MS program can serve as effective preparation for doctoral study.

For a broader perspective on how economics compares to other high-earning graduate fields, see our ranking of the highest-paying online master’s degrees.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master’s in Economics

For most students, yes — but the ROI depends on your career goals, program cost, and degree type. Economists earn a median salary of approximately $113,940 according to BLS data, and master’s-level training is the standard credential for economist positions at federal agencies, consulting firms, and research organizations. The degree is most clearly worth it when the total program cost is manageable relative to your expected salary increase. A $12,000 program at the University of Florida has a very different ROI calculation than a $58,000 program at Johns Hopkins. Students pursuing policy or government careers see strong returns because many positions require or strongly prefer a master’s degree. Students already working in economics-adjacent roles (business analysis, data analysis) should evaluate whether the degree will unlock a meaningful promotion or salary increase rather than assuming it automatically will.