What Degree Programs in Economics Are Offered by the University of Maryland's Economics Department?

Updated

The University of Maryland's Department of Economics (econ.umd.edu) offers three main degree paths: an undergraduate program in economics, a Ph.D. program in economics, and a Master of Science in Applied Economics. Which one fits you depends on your goal — a broad economics foundation (undergraduate), a research and academic career (Ph.D.), or applied, professional skills with a master's credential (M.S. in Applied Economics).

Undergraduate Program in Economics

The department's undergraduate offerings cover the core economics major along with structured support around it. Based on the site's navigation, the undergraduate experience includes:

  • Program information and advising — guidance on requirements and course planning.
  • Courses — the economics course catalog for the major.
  • Internships and career exploration — resources connecting coursework to jobs and internships.
  • Undergraduate research — opportunities to work on research as an undergraduate.
  • Graduation — requirements and steps for completing the degree.
  • Preparing for graduate school — guidance for students considering further study.
  • Department and co-curricular opportunities — activities and programs beyond the classroom.

This path suits students who want a general economics education and the flexibility to move into employment, internships, or graduate study afterward.

Ph.D. Program in Economics

The Ph.D. program is the department's doctoral track. The site separates it into distinct sections:

  • Ph.D. program description — the structure and nature of the doctoral program.
  • Prospective Ph.D. student information — what applicants need to know before applying.
  • Information for current Ph.D. students — resources for those already enrolled.
  • About our Ph.D. students — profiles of current doctoral students.

This is the appropriate route if your goal is doctoral-level research and an academic or research career in economics.

Master of Science in Applied Economics

The M.S. in Applied Economics is a separate master's-level program. The site lists an information session for the program (dated November 12, 2026), which is a practical entry point if you want details before applying. This degree is oriented toward applied economics rather than the doctoral research track, making it relevant for students seeking a professional master's credential.

Research Specializations That Can Inform Your Choice

The department's research areas are listed as:

  • Development, Labor, and Public Economics
  • Macroeconomics and International Economics
  • Microeconomic Theory, Behavioral Economics, Industrial Organization
  • Econometrics
  • Economic History, Institutions, and Political Economy

If you already know which field interests you, these areas help you judge whether a given program aligns with your goals — particularly at the Ph.D. level, where specialization matters most.

Choosing Among the Three

Program Best suited for Key site sections
Undergraduate Broad economics foundation; jobs, internships, or later graduate study Program information and advising, Courses, Internships and career exploration, Undergraduate research
Ph.D. Doctoral research and academic/research careers Ph.D. program description, Prospective student information, Current student information
M.S. in Applied Economics Applied, professional master's training Program information session (Nov 12, 2026)

To decide, start from your end goal: a general degree (undergraduate), a research doctorate (Ph.D.), or an applied master's (M.S.). Then use the corresponding section on econ.umd.edu — and for the master's program, the information session is the most direct way to get current details.