Economics and Public Policy

The Economics and Public Policy program at Tufts University offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education designed to prepare them for active engagement in solving complex economic and social issues. This program provides a rigorous foundation in economic theory, quantitative analysis, and policy formulation, coupled with an exploration of key public policy challenges such as inequality, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and economic development. Students will develop critical thinking skills and analytical capabilities necessary to evaluate policies and their societal impacts critically. The curriculum features a blend of core courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics, econometrics, and public policy analysis, along with specialized courses in areas such as international economics, health economics, and environmental policy. Furthermore, students have opportunities for experiential learning through internships, research projects, and collaboration with government agencies and NGOs, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. The program also emphasizes ethical considerations and the importance of evidence-based decision-making in shaping effective, equitable public policies. Graduates of the Economics and Public Policy program are well-equipped for careers in government, public policy think tanks, international organizations, nonprofit sectors, or pursue advanced degrees in economics, public policy, or related fields. With access to Tufts’ distinguished faculty, vibrant academic community, and strategic location near Boston’s rich economic and political landscape, students are prepared to become informed leaders committed to making a positive impact in society.

The program includes three required, two-term core courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and statistics-econometrics. These will typically be followed by field courses in the areas of development, energy and environmental policy, and political economy. Suggested coursework and research schedules for completion of the degree are shown below.

All students will choose two fields of study from among the following areas: 1) Development Economics; 2) Energy and Environmental Policy; and 3) Comparative and International Political Economy. Each field will require three courses for completion, including a required core course. The courses taken to fulfill the field requirements must be approved by the program's Advising and Curriculum Committee, which is made up of Economics and Fletcher faculty, and chaired by a member of the program's Steering Committee. Each student's transcript will indicate his or her field of study.

Progression through the program will require that students demonstrate "Acceptable" performance. This will include earning passing grades in all courses. It will also require passing field exams in two of the three fields listed above.

1. Online application for admission
2. Scanned copies of all college transcripts
3. Letters of Recommendation: one for certificate programs, two for the engineering management program, and three for all other degree programs
4. Résumé or Curriculum Vitae
5. Personal statement elaborating on your reasons for wanting to pursue graduate study at Tufts
6. Application fee of $85 
7. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
8. Achieved competitive scores on both the verbal and quantitative reasoning sections of the GRE
9. Applicants who are not native speakers of English are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). A minimum TOEFL score of 90 on the internet based exam is required for M.A., M.S., and Ph.D. applicants, and a minimum score of 85 is required for M.F.A. applicants. The minimum IELTS score is 6.5. 

Scholarships

For students who show scholarly promise, the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and the School of Engineering offer scholarships, fellowships, and research or teaching assistantships to full-time students in doctoral programs. The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences also offers awards to full-time students in master’s programs. Certificate students are not eligible for these awards.

• Tuition Scholarships are available in most master's and doctoral programs for qualified students.
• Teaching Assistantships are offered by most departments.
• Research Assistantships are generally available in the science and engineering areas.
• Fellowships are offered to students who demonstrate outstanding records of achievement and a well-articulated plan of study.

The Economics and Public Policy program at Tufts University offers students an interdisciplinary curriculum that combines rigorous training in economic theory, quantitative methods, and public policy analysis. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in government, non-profit organizations, research institutions, or for further studies in graduate or professional schools. The program emphasizes understanding economic principles and applying them to policy issues such as healthcare, education, environmental sustainability, and economic development.

Students enrolled in the program have the opportunity to take courses across various departments, including Economics, Public Policy and Public Service, and International Relations. The curriculum typically includes core courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, statistics, and research methods, as well as specialized electives in areas like health policy, environmental policy, and economic development. The program also encourages experiential learning through internships, research projects, and policy analysis simulations, fostering practical skills and real-world understanding.

The faculty involved in this program are experts in their fields, often engaged in policy research and community engagement, providing mentorship and up-to-date insights on contemporary issues. The program may also involve collaboration with think tanks, government agencies, and NGOs, offering students valuable networking opportunities and practical experience.

Graduates of the Economics and Public Policy program gain analytical skills, policy evaluation techniques, and an understanding of economic systems and social issues. This comprehensive education aims to develop informed, critical thinkers capable of addressing complex societal challenges through evidence-based policy solutions. The program prepares students for a wide range of professional roles, or for further academic pursuits in economics, public policy, law, or related fields.

Please note that exact details such as program duration, admission requirements, and specific course offerings can vary, and it is recommended to consult the official Tufts University website or academic catalog for the most accurate and current information.