About Master’s Program,
Our master’s degree in Applied Economics links basic economic theory and statistical techniques to real-world problems faced by decision makers. With emphasis on extensive training in econometrics and forecasting, exposure to working with large and diverse data sets, and a wide range of statistical software, this program gives students the applied skills that employers demand and provides those pursuing advanced degrees an edge in gaining admission to top Ph.D. programs.
The Applied Economics sequence is designed to train students in the quantitative and applied economic skills that will best enhance their future employment opportunities as economists, research analysts, or planners in the private and public sectors. While the curriculum is structured as a terminal degree in applied economics and many graduates have advanced to doctoral-level programs in economics and in related disciplines, 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.
The Applied Economics program is a STEM designated degree, which focuses on the systematic study of mathematical and statistical analysis of economic phenomena and problems. STEM designated degree programs offer additional benefits for students, including potential grant funded opportunities and, for international students, extended OPT study options.
Please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for answers to common admissions questions about our program.
Master’s Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,
A student admitted in the program must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for either the last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework or any previous work in a master’s program.
- have earned a four-year bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a college or university that is accredited by the appropriate regional accrediting association, or do so within one academic year
- present unofficial transcripts from each college or university other than Illinois State at which graduate, undergraduate, or non-degree credit was earned. The unofficial transcript should be easily readable and clearly indicate degree(s) awarded, courses and course grades for each term. If accepted, official transcripts can be emailed from the university to GraduateAdmissions@IllinoisState.eduor mailed in a sealed envelope to: Graduate School, 209 Hovey Hall, Campus Box 4040, Normal, IL 61790-4040.
International students can learn more about specific application requirements by visiting the Office of Admissions.
Master’s Funding Coverage,
See Student Accounts for information on tuition and fees. Funding for graduate students is available from several different sources. Students who have been admitted from contiguous states including Iowa, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, and Wisconsin will receive in-state tuition.
The University provides graduate assistantships as a means of financial support. They are intended as a way to facilitate a student’s progress to degree while providing important professional development.
- monthly wages paid in the form of either a stipend or an hourly wage
- a waiver for 100% of tuition during a semester of appointment
- a waiver for up to 12 credit hours of tuition for the summer term immediately following a fall or spring appointment
Application Requirement,
Unofficial transcripts
Coursework
Graduate Record Examination
Letters of Recommendation
Current resume or C.V.
A 300-word statement of purpose explaining your interest in the Applied Economics graduate sequence at Illinois State University, your academic and professional goals, and what you hope to achieve as a graduate student in Economics
Scores from either the Test of English as a Foreign Language
Application Deadline,
Mar 01, 2025
Application Fee,
GradCAS (all other graduate programs) – $63