U of A Now Offering Economic Analytics Master's Degree

Photo by Russell Cothren

Raja Kali, professor and chair of the Department of Economics, Sam M. Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas.

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas is now offering a Master of Science in Economic Analytics, a 10-month program. Classes will begin in fall 2020 and applications are being accepted.

“Economic analytics is so important to the business world,” said Matt Waller, dean of the Walton College. “Industry needs professionals with an understanding of advanced predictive analytics. Our students will learn how to analyze, model and interpret data using advanced economic and statistical tools. They will generate real value for data-driven companies.”

The new degree emphasizes economic theory and modeling, computational practice, econometric and statistical/machine learning methods, optimization and computing. It will provide skills needed by large data-driven companies such as those in the banking, finance, retail, health care and technology industries, as well as by the non-profit and government sectors. After course completion, students should be able to identify, create and assess data-driven value for employers.

“A variety of industries are actively searching for graduate-level economists to solve business problems by combining data analytics and economic modeling,” said Raja Kali, professor and chair of Walton College’s Department of Economics. “Industry will continue to demand more data analyst positions, and I am proud that we are helping to meet this demand.”  

The degree is a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) designated program. Highlights include:

• State of the art econometrics, forecasting, and analytical techniques
• Emphasis on applied economics and economic modeling
• Capstone course on economic analytics
• Training in Python and R
• Enterprise Systems Graduate Certificate with a concentration in business analytics in addition to the M.S. in Economic Analytics degree for successful students
• Certified Business Economist exam offered on campus, in partnership with National Association for Business Economics

Walton College is accepting applications now through April 15, 2020. To learn more or to apply, visit msecon.uark.edu.

About the University of Arkansas: The University of Arkansas provides an internationally competitive education for undergraduate and graduate students in more than 200 academic programs. The university contributes new knowledge, economic development, basic and applied research, and creative activity while also providing service to academic and professional disciplines. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the University of Arkansas among fewer than 3% of colleges and universities in America that have the highest level of research activity. U.S. News & World Report ranks the University of Arkansas among its top American public research universities. Founded in 1871, the University of Arkansas comprises 10 colleges and schools and maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio that promotes personal attention and close mentoring.