In this ranking, we profile 30 most affordable master’s in economics online programs.

Earning a degree in economics equips you for a career as a consultant, economist, market researcher, or professor. These jobs typically require a master’s degree in economics, but also ask for adequate experience. If you don’t want to quit your day job and forego the valuable work experience you’re acquiring, you don’t have to. Online options are now available for economics degrees. You can earn a master’s in economics online from accredited programs. Affordable programs are available from some of the nation’s top institutions.

30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs Methodology

We reviewed a total of 95 colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator and reputable online sources that offered master’s in economics online programs (or closely related degrees with specializations or courses in economics). We narrowed our original pool of schools by applying the following criteria: national or regional accreditation, institution rankings with at least one reputable publication like U.S. News and World Report, and affordable graduate tuition and fees less than $34,000 per year. We then ranked our findings according to raw affordability.

Below are the results of our top 30 affordable master’s in economics online programs.

#30 – University of Delaware

Online Masters Economics and Entrepreneurship for Educators

Newark, Delaware

Website

University of Delaware - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
For educators! University of Delaware’s online master’s in economics degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $33,678

The University of Delaware offers a unique master’s in economics online that prepares current educators to teach students the principles of economics, investing, and monetary strategy. The admission process includes a bachelor’s degree and at least three semester hours in economics. Additionally, applicants must be referred by their principal or school district as an individual with leadership potential and capacity. In addition to online coursework, students spend two 4-week residencies taking economics courses and creating an economics or personal finance project. Courses may include contemporary issues for economics educators, current strategies for economic educators, and monetary and international trade theories for economic educators.

#29 – American University

Online Masters Economics

Washington, District of Columbia

Website

American University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
American University’s online master’s in economics takes 20 months to complete.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $31,446

Located in Washington, DC, American University offers an online master’s in economics that focuses on economic policy and data analysis. Students from all academic and professional backgrounds are welcome, provided they have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and have successfully passed a calculus I course. The program is delivered entirely online and can be completed in as little as 20 months. Students take courses such as applied econometrics, financial stability and growth, macroeconomic theory, and survey of economic development. Graduates go on to successful careers in economics working for think tanks, NGOs, government agencies, and private consulting firms. Backed by an outstanding academic reputation, American University ranks #79 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.

#28 – University of Detroit Mercy

Online Masters Economics

Detroit, Michigan

Website

University of Detroit Mercy - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Ranked and accredited – Online master’s in economics! University of Detroit Mercy.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $28,422

Students searching for online economics programs will want to consider the graduate program at the University of Detroit Mercy due to its affordable tuition and flexible online format. Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and a minimum GPA of 3.0. In some instances, prerequisite courses may be required. Applicants from all backgrounds, both academically and professionally, are encouraged to apply. Moreover, Detroit Mercy has removed the requirement of standardized test scores as part of its application to the economics master’s program. Once matriculated, students will take courses such as analysis of economic conditions, economic analysis of enterprises, and quantitative foundations of economic analysis.

#27 – Northeastern University

Online Master’s in Science Commerce and Economic Development

Boston, Massachusetts

Website

Northeastern University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Study economic development at Northeastern University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $24,309

Through its College of Professional Studies, Northeastern University offers an online master’s in economics and commerce that is STEM based and integrates public policy, leadership, technology, and economics that prepare students for successful careers in both the public and private sectors. Students can commit to a full- or part-time schedule and can take courses wherever there is an active internet connection. Admission requirements include bachelor’s degree with transcripts, resume, statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation. Test scores are not required to apply for the program. Featured courses include applied economic theory, commerce and economic development, and mathematical methods for economics. Northeastern has an outstanding reputation backed by its top 40 ranking in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.

#26 – The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Online Master’s in Behavioral Economics

Chicago, Illinois

Website

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Behavioral Economics! The Chicago School of Professional Psychology!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $22,601

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology’s master’s in economics online is a behavioral based program focusing on consumer behavior, marketing, and human decision-making. Students from all backgrounds are welcome to apply provided they have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and submit a resume and essay. Test scores are not required to apply. Additionally, relevant work experience is recommended but not required. Sample courses include brain and behavior, choice architecture, and consumer motivation. The program is structured to be completed in just two years with full-time enrollment. Moreover, all coursework is delivered online, making it an excellent choice for full-time professionals seeking to balance their current careers with graduate level coursework.

#25 – Pennsylvania State University

Online Master’s in Community and Economic Development

University Park, Pennsylvania

Website

Pennsylvania State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
A fully online master’s in economics program – Penn State!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $22,578

Penn State University World Campus offers its master of professional studies in community and economic development, which is similar to an online economics degree. Throughout the program, students learn the skills and knowledge to build community capacity such as infrastructure, sustainability, services, and commerce. The program is an excellent fit for those working in economic development, non-profit agencies, and government agencies. In addition, those seeking a career change are also encouraged to apply. Past graduates have included community development directors, elected officials, adult educators, non-profit professionals, and much more. Pennsylvania State University World Campus is currently ranked in 22 different online degree categories by U.S. News and World Report.

#24 – Seattle University

Online Master’s in Business with emphasis in Economics

Seattle, Washington

Website

Seattle University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Earn an online MBA with emphasis in economics at Seattle University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,880

Students searching for online economics programs may want to consider Seattle University’s online MBA with an emphasis in Economics. The online program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International, which accredits only 5% of all worldwide business schools. In addition, the program is delivered entirely online (one residency weekend required) making it an outstanding choice in terms of value and flexibility. Admission requirements include GMAT score submission, transcripts, and resume demonstrating at least two years professional work experience. Courses may include analytical tools for managerial decision making, building internal and community stakeholder relationships, enterprise financial performance analysis, and managerial accounting for organizational leadership.

#23 – Southern New Hampshire University

Online Economics Masters

Manchester, New Hampshire

Website

Southern New Hampshire University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
SNHU’s affordable master’s in economics online program is accredited and ranked.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,810

Southern New Hampshire online master’s in economics program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and is geared specifically for working professionals. The degree provides students with an applied economics skillset where they are prepared to work as economists in a variety of fields through coursework such as game theory and industrial organization, introduction to graduate economics, and macroeconomics theory and analysis. Upon graduation, students should expect to earn above-average salaries, according to the United States Labor Department, which states that the median income for an individual with a master’s in economics is $101,050 compared to the average salary of $38,540 for all occupations.

#22 – University of Washington

Online MBA in Economics

Seattle, Washington

Website

University of Washington - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
UW’s online economics programs rank with U.S. News.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,590

Similar to online economics programs, the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business offers an MBA with a specialization in economics where students take core MB classes in addition to specialized coursework in advanced economics. The program uses the hybrid model and is 95% online and 5% in-person requiring students to make quarterly visits to the University of Washington Campus. Admission requirements include two essays, GRE/GMAT test scores, resume, three recommendations, and an interview (invitation only). The two-year program includes courses such as decision modeling, domestic and international economic conditions, financial reporting and analysis, leading teams and organizations, and strategic marketing management.

#21 – Regent University

Online MBA in Economics

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Website

Regent University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
A fully online economics MBA! Regent University!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,179

Similar to a master’s in economics online, Regent University’s MBA in economics provides advanced studies in economic theory and applied economics. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and teaches coursework through a Christian lens. Students will learn fundamental principles in business such as finance, accounting, and marketing. In addition, coursework is multi-disciplinary and combines elements of sociology, history, psychology, and economics to give students both depth and breadth in their understanding of economic conditions and what drives economic growth and retraction. Regent University is ranked #281 in national universities and #49 in top performers in social mobility.

#20 – Wright State University

Online Master’s in Business Administration with Concentration in Business Economics

Dayton, Ohio

Website

Wright State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Wright State’s online master’s in economics prepares business leaders for top-level careers.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,298

Wright State University offers an online economics degree within its MBA curriculum designed to develop competent business and economic leaders ready to lead organizations. The business economic concentration prepares students for successful careers in business, government, and non-profit agencies predicting and reacting to monetary and fiscal policy. Students learn advanced quantitative and analytical skills through courses such as developing and implementing competitive strategies, financial analysis and decision making, survey of economics, and survey of quantitative business analysis. Wright State enjoys a solid academic reputation and is ranked #26 in best online business programs and #138 in best online MBA programs by U.S. News and World Report.

#19 – Endicott College

Online Master’s in Maritime Economics

Beverly, Massachusetts

Website

Endicott College - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
A unique online economics degree. Study maritime economics at Endicott College!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,191

Through its Van Loan School of Business, Endicott College offers one of the most unique and affordable online economics programs, focusing on the maritime industry. In addition to its required MBA curriculum consisting of 12 courses, students also take maritime economics classes such as ocean sciences, maritime regulatory environment, port and shipping operation, and waterfront planning. Individuals with any academic and professional background are welcome to apply. In addition, Endicott has removed the GRE and GMAT test as admission components to help applicants save time and money in their pursuit of a graduate degree. The entire program is online, making it a very convenient option for working professionals or place bound individuals not able to take on-campus classes.

#18 – William Jessup University

Online Master’s in Business Administration

Rocklin, California

Website

William Jessup University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
100% online – William Jessup University’s master’s in economics online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,763

William Jessup University offers an online MBA similar to an online economics degree. Admission requirements include a 3.0 cumulative GPA, bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, and a resume showing 3-5 years of work experience. In addition, students must have successfully passed microeconomics and financial accounting. There is no GMAT testing requirement for this program, but students may send in their scores if they feel it adds value to their application. Core classes may include global operations and supply chain management, leadership and change, and managerial economics. William Jessup enjoys an outstanding academic reputation and is ranked #2 in best regional colleges West by U.S. News and World Report.

#17 – Xavier University

Online Master’s in Health Economics and Clinical Outcomes Research

Cincinnati, Ohio

Website

Xavier University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Study health economics online at Xavier University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,716

Xavier University offers an online master’s in economics focusing on health economics that prepares students to utilize health care data to improve care. The 39-credit program is conducted entirely online and can be completed in as little as two years with full-time enrollment. The main goal of the program is to teach students to engage in research that generates useful data on how to improve healthcare decisions. Many graduates go on to careers as healthcare analysts and administrators in the public and private sectors. Students from all academic backgrounds are welcome to apply although the program prefers those with at least three years of health care experience. In addition, students must submit a resume, transcripts, letter of intent, and two recommendations.

#16 – Western Illinois University

Online Master’s in Community and Economic Development

Macomb, Illinois

Website

Western Illinois University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Affordability matters! Western Illinois University – Offering a master’s in economic development.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,604

Students interested in online economics programs may want to consider the program at Western Illinois University focusing on economic development. The program is a hybrid format with most of the coursework online in addition to occasional meetings at the Quad Cities campus in Moline. Students take courses such as advanced community development theory and practice, advanced economic development practices, and leadership and decision-making in community development. Potential students should have a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as economics, education, political science, sociology, and the like. The institution does not have a testing requirement as part of its application process.

#15 – Kent State University

Online Master’s in Business Administration

Kent, Ohio

Website

Kent State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Kent State’s online MBA offers courses in economics.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,536

Similar to a master’s in economics online, Kent State University offers an MBA where students take courses in advanced economic theory and application. The Kent State MBA offers a specialization in business analytics where advanced finance and economics courses are taught within a degree that can truly be tailored to the student’s career interests. In addition, the program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business with classes taught by faculty who are recognized teaching and research leaders within their respective fields. Students can finish the degree in as little as 12 months but have the option to spread out coursework over a longer period of time, depending on their preference.

#14 – Bellevue University

Online MBA

Bellevue, Nebraska

Website

Bellevue University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
A fully online business and economics program. Bellevue University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,025

Bellevue University offers online master’s in economics courses through its MBA curriculum. The concentration focuses on the global economic threat environment where students apply theoretical knowledge to the global arena economic, political, and cultural focuses. Courses within the concentration include green security: eco-conflict and its challenges; hard and soft power: balancing hawks and doves; and transnational crime and corruption: the dark side of globalization. Students with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution are encouraged to apply and should have a 2.5 minimum GPA within the last 60 credits of coursework. Test scores are not required as part of the application process.

#13 – Belhaven University

Online Master’s in Business Administration

Jackson, Mississippi

Website

Belhaven University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Earn an online MBA with economics theory studies at Belhaven University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,350

Similar to an online economics degree, the MBA degree at Belhaven University teaches students advanced economic theory and applied uses through its online curriculum. The 36-credit degree utilizes 8-week courses taught year-round in an online format that requires no on-campus residencies. This delivery makes the program an excellent choice for working professionals. Coursework may include ethical problems in business, managerial economics, principles of executive leadership, and the legal environment in business. Belhaven is a fully accredited institution and ranks in multiple U.S. News and World report categories such as #132 in best online business programs and #245 in best online MBA programs.

#12 – University of Missouri

Online Masters Economics

Columbia, Missouri

Website

University of Missouri - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
100% online delivery! University of Missouri’s online master’s in economics.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,017

The University of Missouri offers an online master’s in economics featuring 30 credits and 100% online delivery. The degree is geared towards working professionals who prefer online courses due to their innovation and flexible coursework. Courses may include applied statistical modeling, economics of international trade, introduction to game theory, and the banking system and the money market. Students with a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and a 3.0 minimum GPA within the last 60 credits are encouraged to apply. Graduates have gone on to successful careers as data scientists, energy markets managers, economic development specialists, and regional economists.

#11 – Purdue University

Online Economics Masters

West Lafayette, Indiana

Website

Purdue University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
An affordable master’s in economics online program – Purdue University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,992

Purdue University offers one of the most affordable online economics degree through its Krannert School of Management. Purdue enjoys a stellar academic reputation as one of the leading teaching and research organizations in all of academia and is ranked in a myriad of U.S. News and World Report categories such as #57 in national universities, 418 in top public schools, and #6 in most innovative schools. In addition to the core economic curriculum, students can choose from three concentration areas including business and data analytics, financial economics, advanced theory (requires one year on campus), and public economics and policy. The specializations are designed to help graduates become exceptionally competitive on the economic job market.

#10 – University of North Dakota

Online Master’s in Applied Economics and Predictive Analytics

Grand Forks, North Dakota

Website

University of North Dakota - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Study applied economics online at University of North Dakota.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,697

The University of North Dakota has one of the most affordable online economics programs in the country. Students can complete the 30-credit degree within two years, which prepares them for careers in economic research, forecasting, and consulting in both the public and private sectors. Applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply provided they have successfully completed undergraduate courses in microeconomics, one semester in calculus, and one semester in statistics. In addition, students should have a minimum 2.75 GPA and have taken the GRE/GMAT within the last five years. Waivers are available for applicants with bachelor degrees in business or STEM. UND enjoys a sound academic reputation as evidenced by its #38 ranking in best online master’s in business programs by U.S. News and World Report.

#9 – Ball State University

Online Master’s in Health Economics, Policy, and Administration

Muncie, Indiana

Website

Ball State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Earn an online master’s in health economics and policy at Ball State University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,392

Ball State University offers a master’s in economics online accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International, which accredits only 5% of the world’s business programs. All interested persons are encouraged to apply – even those without a background in business or economics. The degree ranges from 30-51 credits, depending on the academic background of the applicant. The health economics program is embedded within the MBA curriculum and features courses such as health economic analysis, health economics and policy, and human resources and management. The health economics program prepares students to analyze the costs and benefits of delivery methods within the health care space.

#8 – Youngstown State University

Online Master’s in Financial Economics

Youngstown, Ohio

Website

Youngstown State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Accredited and affordable! Youngstown State’s master’s in economics online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,384

Youngstown State University offers an online master’s in economics specializing in financial economics where students learn to analyze financial markets. The program is one of only two online programs of its kind. The program welcomes applicants who possess a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.7 GPA along with the completion of one of the following courses: principles of microeconomics, principles of macroeconomics, statistics, or calculus. Courses may include accounting and finance for decision making, applied time series analysis and forecasting, the economics of financial markets and institutions, and SAS programming for data analytics. Youngstown State ranks #117 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.

#7 – Gardner-Webb University

Online Master’s in Business Administration with Emphasis in Economics

Boiling Springs, North Carolina

Website

Gardner-Webb University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
MBA in economics online program available at Gardner-Webb.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,050

Gardner Webb University offers an online economics degree as part of an MBA concentration. The program is conducted fully online and is an excellent fit for working professionals who desire an academically challenging program with maximum efficiency. In addition to the core curriculum, students will take advanced courses in economics, allowing them to build the theoretical and applied knowledge to predict and react to monetary and economic changes on a global level. Graduates go on to work for a variety of public and private organizations. The institution has a solid academic foundation and reputation within the region and is ranked in multiple U.S. News and World Report categories including #281 in national universities and #204 in top social mobility performers.

#6 – Georgia Southern University

Online Economics Masters

Statesboro, Georgia

Website

Georgia Southern University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Top ranked and affordable! The master’s in economics online degree at Georgia Southern University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,728

Georgia Southern University offers one of the top online economics programs based on its affordable tuition and commitment to teaching and learning. The program takes an applied economics focus to develop students into adept policy and market analysts able to work in a variety of organizations and contexts. The program is backed by the accreditation of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and embeds stackable credentials, including a graduate certificate that meets regional accreditation for teaching the subject. All applicants with a bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA, and courses in calculus, statistics, and micro/macroeconomics are welcome to apply.

#5 – Liberty University

Online Master’s in Business Administration with an Emphasis in Economics

Lynchburg, Virginia

Website

Liberty University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Earn an online MBA with economics concentration at Liberty University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,333

Liberty University’s master’s in economics online trains students to understand complex market forces by studying complex micro and macroeconomic policies along with socio-political forces, history, and culture to give the student a broad perspective into what shapes and impacts the global economy and individual firms. In addition, students take foundational business courses as part of Liberty’s top ranked MBA program taught by highly trained faculty. Courses may include global economic environment, microeconomic theory, and money and capital markets. Interested applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. There is no GRE or GMAT testing requirement to apply.

#4 – Lamar University

Online Master’s in Business Administration

Beaumont, Texas

Website

Lamar University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Only 16 months for the online MBA with economics classes at Lamar University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,174

Lamar University offers an MBA degree similar in nature to an online master’s in economics. The program features both fundamental and advanced economics courses including microeconomic principles, managerial economics, and ERP review. The 36-credit degree features an accelerated format and can be completed in just 16 months and is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International. In addition, Lamar University ranks #293 in national universities, and #213 in best online MBA programs by U.S. News and World Report. Students from all academic disciplines are welcome to apply; they may need to take one or more leveling courses as preparation for advanced coursework.

#3 – University of Houston

Online Master’s in Economic Development and Entrepreneurship

Victoria, Texas

Website

University of Houston - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Accredited and affordable! University of Houston’s online master’s in economic development.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,559

The University of Houston offers a master’s in economics online focusing on entrepreneurship and economic development. The degree provides students with the coursework to become experts in two distinct but related pathways. The entrepreneurial courses instill the capacity for students to create and sustain their own business endeavors, while the economic development classes teach students to assist others in starting their own ventures or to help existing businesses. Featuring one of the lowest tuition rates in Texas, the program is also accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business so students can be assured they are earning a quality, respected degree.

#2 – West Texas A & M University

Online Master’s in Finance and Economics

Canyon, Texas

Website

West Texas A & M University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
A fully online master’s in economics at West Texas A&M University!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,733

Students searching for an online economics degree may want to consider the finance and economics degree offered by West Texas A&M University. It is designed for current finance professionals seeking additional education and development into the understanding of the economic and financial forces that shape both the broader economy and individual markets. The 36-credit degree is designed to be completed in two years but can be finished sooner. Admission requirements include an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0, three letters of recommendation, résumé, statement of goals, and proficiency in business foundation courses. GMAT test score waivers are available for those with an UG GPA of 3.0 or higher.

#1 – Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Online Master’s in Business Administration

Durant, Oklahoma

Website

Southeastern Oklahoma State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Economics Online Programs 2020
Ranked #1 in most affordable master’s in economics online programs! Southeastern Oklahoma State University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,022

Similar to a master’s in economics online, Southeastern Oklahoma State University offers an online MBA with critical courses in economics and financial decision-making. Ranked in multiple U.S. News and World Report categories including #87 in regional universities West and #74 in top social mobility performers, the institution provides students with a flexible and rigorous degree that can be used in a variety of contexts. In addition, the John Massey School of Business is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Designed for the busy working professional, this degree can be completed in just 12 months from start to finish.

BCO Staff
February 2020

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This concludes our list of top 30 most affordable online masters economics programs.