������

The Master of Arts (MA) in Economics program at ������ provides a foundation in the tools of economic policy and data analysis. Program graduates go on to obtain a wide range of positions in the insurance and banking industries, as well as continuing academic careers by pursuing a Ph.D.

Two concentrations are offered in the MA in Economics program: Economic Analysis and Financial Economics.

• One distinct advantage of the Economic Analysis concentration is its focus on the development of strong analytical and quantitative skills. Students are well-trained in the application of economic theory and methods of statistical analysis.
• The Financial Economics concentration is primarily designed for students who wish to pursue careers in the financial services industry, including commercial banking, investment banking, insurance, real estate and financial advising. 

Our M.A. in Economics program has STEM designation, with CIP code 45.0603 (Econometrics and Quantitative Economics). It allows our international students to apply for a two-year OPT extension in addition to the standard 12 months of F1 student visas for all other degrees.

COMBINED BBA(BA)/MA PROGRAM

We offer a combined BBA/MA or BA/MA program, allowing a current KSU undergraduate to take MA courses as an undergraduate which count towards both the BBA/BA degree and the MA in Economics (M.A.E.), up to 9 credit hours can be double counted. This allows students to earn a graduate degree in less time and have the advantages of higher starting salaries and additional career opportunities.

KSU undergraduate students applying to the combined bachelor’s/master’s program with the M.A.E. degree must meet University requirements.

• Earn a minimum 60 credit hours (junior standing)
• Achieve a minimum 3.000 overall ������ GPA*
• Complete a standard online graduate application, including paying the application fee
• Meet all admissions requirements for the master’s degree program (consult the University Catalog for specific requirements)
• Be admitted to the master’s degree program
• Submit the Combined Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree Form before the first semester of enrollment in the combined program. Access the Combined Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree Program Form here. Contact our graduate program's office with help filling out the form. Email Us: crawforgrad@kent.edu.

* Currently, students need a minimum 3.200 overall GPA for the combined bachelor's/M.A.E. Starting with the spring 2026 admission term, a minimum 3.000 overall GPA is required, and it is not necessary to submit two letters of recommendation.

While not required, it is strongly recommended that applicants complete ECON 32040: Intermediate Microeconomic Theory and Applications or/and ECON 32050: Applied Econometrics I prior to applying.

MASTER OF ARTS IN ECONOMICS (MAE) DIRECT ADMISSION PROGRAM

������ is proud to offer high-achieving KSU students with junior standing (60 or more credit hours) a simplified admissions pathway into the Master of Arts in Economics (MAE) program. Students are encouraged to apply through the combined undergraduate/graduate degree option. Admitted students may defer the start of their MAE program for up to one year after completing their undergraduate degree.

Direct Admission does not guarantee admission, but provides a streamlined process that waives the following:

• Graduate School application fee
• Application essay
• Letters of recommendation

Eligibility Requirements for Direct Admission to the MAE Program:

• Minimum 3.2 overall GPA
• Enrollment in one of the following majors:
  • Economics (B.B.A. or B.A.)
  • Finance (B.B.A.)
  • Mathematics (B.A. or B.S.)
  • Actuarial Mathematics (B.S.)
  • Applied Mathematics (B.S.)

While not required, we strongly recommend that applicants complete ECON 32040: Intermediate Microeconomic Theory Applications or/and ECON 32050: Applied Econometrics I prior to applying.

When applying, select: “Economics Direct Admit – MAE – Economic Analysis or Financial Economics – Current ������ Students Only.”

Want to learn more?

Interested in learning more about the M.A. in Economics degree at ������? Contact us at 330-672-2282 or use the online form, and we can help answer any questions that you may have. We look forward to hearing from you! You can also watch one of our pre-recorded virtual information sessions, read alumni testimonials or watch our special feature video below, to learn more about the Master of Arts in Economics!

Watch an Information Session

Read testimonials from M.A.E. alumni

Featured Podcast

We utilized the latest in AI technology to create short (10-15 minute) podcasts about graduate and undergraduate degrees and programs at the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Listen to the Master of Arts in Economics podcast below to learn more about the degree!

#1: Level Up Your Education - Master of Arts in Economics at ������