Environmental and Natural Resource Economics

Environmental and Natural Resource Economics at the University of Copenhagen offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary master’s program designed to equip students with the analytical and practical skills necessary to address some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. This program combines economic theory, environmental science, policy analysis, and sustainable management to prepare graduates for careers in academia, public administration, consulting, international organizations, and private sector entities focused on environmental and resource issues. Students will explore the economic principles underlying environmental problems, including market failures, externalities, and the valuation of natural resources. The curriculum emphasizes quantitative analysis, model-building, and empirical research methods to enable students to critically evaluate policies aimed at promoting sustainability and environmental conservation. Throughout the program, students engage with current topics such as climate change mitigation, renewable energy development, water management, biodiversity protection, and sustainable land use. The program is taught by experts in environmental economics, with opportunities to participate in research projects, internships, and collaborations with environmental agencies and NGOs. Students acquire knowledge of international environmental agreements, policy instruments, and the economic impacts of environmental regulation. The program prepares graduates for a variety of roles where economic insight is essential to inform decision-making for sustainable development. Graduates leave with strong analytical skills, a nuanced understanding of environmental issues, and the ability to communicate complex economic ideas effectively to stakeholders and policymakers. The program also offers potential pathways for further research and doctoral studies. Overall, the Environmental and Natural Resource Economics master's program at the University of Copenhagen provides an ideal platform for those interested in contributing to sustainable solutions through economic analysis and policy development.

The Master's Degree in Environmental and Natural Resource Economics at the University of Copenhagen offers students an in-depth understanding of the economic principles and analytical tools necessary to address complex environmental challenges. This program combines rigorous training in economic theory, quantitative methods, and practical policy analysis, preparing graduates to contribute effectively to sustainable development and natural resource management. Throughout the program, students explore key topics such as environmental valuation, market-based instruments for environmental regulation, the economics of climate change, and the management of renewable and non-renewable resources. Emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches, the curriculum integrates insights from ecology, politics, and social sciences to develop holistic solutions for environmental issues. Students will engage in theoretical coursework alongside practical projects, including data analysis, economic modeling, and policy design exercises, fostering both academic and real-world problem-solving skills. The program also offers opportunities for specialization in areas such as biodiversity conservation, energy markets, or water resource management, allowing students to tailor their education according to their interests and career goals. With a strong emphasis on empirical research and policy relevance, graduates of this program are well-equipped for roles in governmental agencies, international organizations, consulting firms, research institutions, and the private sector. The University of Copenhagen’s vibrant academic environment and extensive network of partnerships provide students with valuable opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and collaborative projects. By completing this Master's program, students will acquire the analytical competence needed to develop sustainable economic policies and contribute to the global efforts in environmental protection and resource conservation.

Program requirements for the Master's Degree in Environmental and Natural Resource Economics at the University of Copenhagen include a strong foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and environmental policy analysis. Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent with a relevant background in economics, environmental science, or related fields. Proficiency in mathematics and statistics is essential, as the program involves advanced analytical techniques. Prior knowledge of microeconomics and macroeconomics, as well as familiarity with environmental economics concepts such as externalities, public goods, and resource management, is highly recommended.

Admission requires submission of academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a motivational letter, and possibly references or recommendation letters. English language proficiency must be demonstrated through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL unless the applicant's primary language is English or they hold a degree obtained in an English-taught program. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, requiring students to complete coursework, participate in seminars, and engage in research projects.

To succeed in this program, students should have analytical skills in data analysis, modeling, and policy evaluation. The curriculum includes courses on economic modeling, environmental policy instruments, resource economics, and sustainable development. Students are also expected to undertake a thesis that demonstrates their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world environmental and resource management issues. Participation in seminars, workshops, and internships-related activities may be encouraged to enhance learning and professional development.

The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in environmental consulting, policy analysis, academia, and governmental or non-governmental organizations focusing on sustainable resource management and environmental policy. Flexibility in course choices allows students to tailor their studies according to their interests within the field. Ultimately, a candidate must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the economic principles underlying environmental issues and the capacity to analyze complex decisions involving natural resources effectively.

The University of Copenhagen offers various financing options for students enrolled in the Environmental and Natural Resource Economics program. Danish and EU/EEA students may be eligible for government grants and student loans provided by the Danish State Educational Grant and Loan Scheme (SU), which covers tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend to support living expenses. To qualify for SU, students must meet specific residency and academic progress requirements, and applicants must apply through the appropriate channels during designated application periods. Non-EU/EEA international students generally need to secure private funding or obtain scholarships, as they are typically not eligible for Danish SU. The university also collaborates with various scholarship programs and external funding bodies that support international students in pursuing their studies. Additionally, students are advised to explore financial aid options available in their home countries or through international organizations dedicated to supporting higher education. The university’s website provides comprehensive information regarding scholarships, grants, and financial support services to assist students in planning and financing their education effectively. It is recommended that students start their scholarship application process early to meet all deadlines and maximize their chances of receiving financial aid. Students can also consider part-time employment opportunities available on or near campus to supplement their income, provided they adhere to visa and work regulations applicable to their nationality. Overall, financing a degree in Environmental and Natural Resource Economics at the University of Copenhagen involves a combination of public funding, scholarships, private sponsorships, and personal savings. The university is committed to supporting students financially through various means to ensure that financial barriers do not hinder their academic pursuits.

The Master’s degree program in Environmental and Natural Resource Economics at the University of Copenhagen offers students a comprehensive understanding of the economic principles and analytical tools necessary to address environmental challenges and manage natural resources sustainably. The program is designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge of the economic theories related to environmental issues, including externalities, public goods, and market failures, and how these concepts apply to real-world policy-making and resource management.

Students enrolling in this program will explore various domains such as climate change economics, environmental policy analysis, renewable and non-renewable resource management, and biodiversity conservation. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework with practical applications, including case studies, data analysis, and econometric methods, preparing graduates for careers in research, governmental agencies, international organizations, consulting firms, and environmental NGOs.

The program emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of environmental and natural resource economics, encouraging students to integrate insights from ecology, political science, and sociology. Students have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as energy economics, agricultural economics, or conservation economics, depending on their interests and career aspirations.

Throughout their studies, students benefit from the university’s strong links with policymakers, industry stakeholders, and research institutions, fostering an environment conducive to practical learning and professional networking. The program typically includes a thesis component, where students conduct independent research under supervision, contributing to the academic field of environmental economics.

Graduates from this master’s program are well-equipped to analyze and develop economic solutions for complex environmental problems, influence policy decisions, and contribute to sustainable development goals. The program is conducted in English, attracting international students and fostering a diverse academic community.

Overall, the Master’s in Environmental and Natural Resource Economics from the University of Copenhagen provides a rigorous, comprehensive education that combines theoretical foundations with practical applications aimed at addressing global environmental challenges through economically informed solutions.