This is an archived copy of the 2020-21 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.utexas.edu/.

Degree Requirements

Master of Arts

The Master of Arts Option I degree program offers a research-based master’s degree. Students are required to complete 30 hours of coursework inclusive of a thesis. Complete the course requirements of the Master of Arts in Economics and any additional course requirements described in the Department’s handbook. Course requirements are described in detail in the Department’s handbook.

The Master of Arts Option III degree program is designed for students pursuing a terminal master's degree in economics. Students are required to take 30 hours of coursework. Courses include a foundational sequence of courses in economic theory and econometrics. Course requirements are described in detail in the Department’s handbook.  This degree does not require completion of a thesis or final report.

Master of Science

The Master of Science degree is designed for students pursuing the Doctor of Philosophy in Economics. To complete the degree, students must complete 36 hours of coursework. First, students must complete a foundational sequence of core courses in macroeconomic theory, microeconomic theory, and econometrics. Second, they must also complete the field course requirements designed to provide students with expertise in specific research areas. These requirements are described in more detail in the Department’s handbook. This degree does not require completion of a thesis or final report.

Doctor of Philosophy

To complete this degree, students must:

  1. Complete the course requirements of the Master of Science in Economics. This includes completing any additional elective requirements described in the Department’s handbook.
  2. Complete the annual requirements of the program as described in the Department Handbook.
  3. Register for a minimum of six hours of dissertation.
  4. Write a dissertation of original research and have the dissertation approved by their dissertation committee following an oral defense.