COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Arts (MA) in Economics and Quantitative Analysis at Wichita State University is a 30-credit-hour graduate program designed to develop strong analytical, econometric, and applied economic reasoning skills for careers in business, government, research, and consulting. The curriculum is structured around a core set of advanced economics courses that provide a solid foundation in both theory and quantitative methods. Students complete required courses such as Behavioral Economics and Managerial Decisions (ECON 704), Topics in Microeconomics (ECON 722), Applied Econometrics (ECON 731), Macroeconomic Analysis (ECON 801), and Quantitative Analysis of Business Conditions and Forecasting (ECON 803), which together build expertise in decision-making, modeling, forecasting, and economic analysis. A key component of the program is ECON 893, a 3-credit independent research project that allows students to apply theoretical and empirical tools to a focused economic problem, strengthening research and analytical skills essential for professional or doctoral pathways. Beyond the core, students complete an additional 12 credit hours of economics electives or approved courses selected in consultation with the graduate coordinator, enabling customization based on interests such as applied economics, policy, or quantitative analysis. The program requires that at least 70% of coursework be at the 700–800 level, ensuring an advanced academic rigor throughout the degree. Students are also required to maintain an approved plan of study, which must be reviewed by the graduate coordinator or department chair to ensure academic coherence and alignment with career goals. Overall, the program emphasizes a balance of theoretical understanding and applied economic analysis, preparing graduates for data-driven roles in business forecasting, policy analysis, financial institutions, and research organizations, while also providing a strong foundation for those considering further doctoral studies in economics or related quantitative fields.