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MS in Applied Economics
MS in Applied Economics Program Overview
Part business, part social science, economics is an incredibly broad field with more career opportunities than most people first realize. Economists can work in state and federal government, in research and development, and in finance and insurance—and it’s a field in high demand. The U.S. Department of Labor expects demand to increase faster than the average occupation through 20301.
With its range of electives, the Johns Hopkins MS in Applied Economics gives you the flexibility to design a degree plan that fits your professional goals and economic interests, such as:
- Environmental economics
- Financial economics
- Health economics
- International economics and development
- Spatial economics
- Public policy
You’ll gain plenty of practical experience in quantitative methods, and you will explore emerging areas like machine learning.
Study on Your Terms
Your career keeps you busy, and we designed our graduate program with that in mind. We offer courses online and on-campus, and you can attend school on a full- or part-time basis.
Applied Economics Master’s Student Outcomes
Core Applied Economics Skills Gained in this Program
A master’s program in applied economics helps you hone specialized skills in areas such as economic analysis, quantitative methods, research, and data-driven decision-making. Through coursework in areas such as microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory, and mathematical methods, you’ll learn how to evaluate economic conditions, interpret data, and apply economic concepts to real-world challenges. As organizations increasingly rely on data analysis, they need professionals who can use evidence-based analysis to guide financial, policy, and business decisions.
You can also strengthen your ability to conduct research and communicate economic findings to different audiences. Economists and analysts often need to translate complex data into actionable insights for businesses, government organizations, and other decision-makers.
Applied Economics Master’s Courses
Below are a few examples of applied economics master’s courses that you can take as part of our program. These courses will help you gain the skills you need to advance in your career and improve your abilities.
- Microeconomic Theory
- Macroeconomic Theory
- Forecasting in Organizations
- Cost-Benefit Analysis
- Machine Learning in Statistics
In-Depth Article
Forbes Ranks Hopkins Applied Economics Program Number One
Forbes has recognized Johns Hopkins University’s Applied Economics graduate degree as their Best Online Master’s in Economics. Forbes’ list, released in September 2025, placed the JHU MS in Applied Economics program as first among the 50 accredited, nonprofit U.S. colleges that it reviewed for statistical analysis, econometrics, and micro and macroeconomics.
Upcoming Master’s in Applied Economics Events
Tianyi Feng MS in Applied EconomicsJohns Hopkins University’s location in Washington, D.C., not only for my courses, but for internships and extracurricular activities, was great. I think the most fascinating thing about this program is the relationship with my classmates and teachers. This is what I have liked the most.
Why to Pursue an MS in Applied Economics at Hopkins
Experienced and Acclaimed Faculty
Our faculty members are acclaimed scholars and accomplished practitioners. Their analytical and policy experience spans the public and private sector, from institutions like the Federal Reserve and agencies like the FTC and USDA to financial and consulting firms.
What You Will Study
Develop analytical skills and a solid foundation in economics in your core classes. Then, let your career interests guide your electives: Choose from behavioral economics, international trade, machine learning in statistics, game theory and dozens more.
Complementary Credentials
Customize your studies of applied economics by pursuing two credentials at once and you may find exactly the right educational focus to help you to advance your career. In addition, these combinations will help you to earn the credentials in less time than if pursued separately.
Applied Economics News
Take the Next Step
Gain the analytical skills you need to help decision-makers make sound decisions. Learn more about the Johns Hopkins' flexible MS in Applied Economics.
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Advanced Academic Programs Admissions
Sources
The salary data for potential applied economics career options are from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook:
1 “Economists: Summary.” Accessed online on November 19, 2021.
Master’s in Applied Economics FAQs
Johns Hopkins University’s MS in Applied Economics program is a 10-course, 30-credit STEM-certified professional master’s degree program – often completed within 12-24 months, though students have up to five years for degree completion. Courses are offered online, in-person at the Hopkins Bloomberg Center in Washington, D.C., or through a combination of both modalities.
The admissions criteria for the MS in Applied Economics program includes a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university, or an equivalent international credential, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, this program requires certain prerequisite courses. The application can be completed online and requires supporting materials, including resume, transcripts, and more.
Tuition and fees for the MS in Applied Economics program currently range from $55,550 – $56,550 USD. The cost per course is $5,555. Students may be eligible to access federal loans, employer tuition assistance, military and veterans benefits, or partner-organization benefits to offset the cost of the degree. Learn more about financial aid options.
Students can customize their professional knowledge by choosing electives from a focus area in Applied Macroeconomics, Applied Microeconomics, Financial Economics, or Quantitative Methods.
Yes. Johns Hopkins offers the MS in Applied Economics and MBA Dual Degree that requires 10 courses from the MS in Applied Economics program and 18 online courses from the MBA program in the Carey Business School. This dual degree program allows graduates to earn both degrees more quickly and at a lower cost.
Graduates of an applied economics master’s program often pursue careers in economic analysis, financial services, consulting, public policy, research, and business strategy.
A few of the most common job titles include:
- Economist
- Economic analyst
- Financial analyst
- Policy analyst
- Research analyst
- Market analyst
Other career opportunities may be available to you based on your prior experience, professional interests, and the industries where you wish to apply your economic expertise.
Professionals with advanced economic training may also move into roles that require forecasting, data interpretation, and strategic planning. These positions often involve analyzing market conditions, evaluating policies, or helping organizations make informed decisions using economic evidence.
Applied economics graduates work in industries where organizations need professionals who can analyze trends, evaluate outcomes, and support strategic decisions. The most common industries include:
- Financial services
- Government
- Consulting
- Healthcare
- Technology
- Research organizations
- International development
Because economics provides a framework for understanding markets, incentives, and resource allocation, professionals with this background can apply their knowledge and skills in many organizational settings. A master’s degree can help you prepare for roles that require advanced analytical capabilities and the ability to use economic insights to address complex problems.