Master's Programs

Duke Economics is currently ranked as one of the top economics departments in the United States, and we consistently strive for innovation and improvement. Our graduate degree programs reflect this by offering flexibility, a rigorous curriculum, and the opportunity to explore other departments and schools in one of America's top research universities.

We offer four distinct master’s programs, each designed to offer students the quantitative and analytical skills they need in preparation for doctoral programs and careers in economics, finance, and related fields.

Degree Offerings

Our four distinct programs are tailored to meet your professional goals – whether that's applied research in academia, industry, or government; applied research in financial markets; financial analysis; or pursuit of your doctorate. Follow links below to learn more about each program.

Master of Arts in Economics (MAE)

Designed to give students a quantitative approach to economics with the flexibility to tailor the degree to fit their future goals, this program offers comprehensive instruction in a wide range of areas within the discipline, including computational economics, economic analysis, and financial economics. Learn More

Master of Arts in Analytical Political Economy (MAPE)

A joint master’s program of the Departments of Economics and Political Science, necessitated by a growing interest in political economy among young economists and in economics by young political scientists. Learn More

Master of Science in Economics & Computation (MSEC)

The joint field of economics and computer science has emerged from two converging intellectual needs: Computer science has become increasingly important for economists working with big data to address complex questions. Students interested in learning about computational mechanism design with applications to economics are ideal candidates for this program. Learn More

Master of Science in Quantitative Financial Economics (MQFE)

Designed for students who are seeking the greater depth and rigor that are increasingly required by advanced academic programs, as well as in the private sector, this program is unique in offering advanced courses in volatility modeling, analysis of high-frequency data, and continuous time finance. Learn More

3 Reasons Why You Should Enroll in Our Master's Program

#1 – Rigorous Quantitative Coursework

Our programs take a highly quantitative approach to economic theory, which helps to provide advanced analytical skills necessary for future economics-related jobs in academia, research, and the public and private sectors. 

#2 – Flexibility with an Interdisciplinary Approach

Our students can customize their curriculum based on their own academic backgrounds and research interests. They can take courses in other departments and schools — such as Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistical Science, the Fuqua School of Business, the Law School, and the Nicholas School of the Environment — as well as collaborate with students and faculty across the social sciences.

#3 – Research Opportunities

Duke University is recognized as one of the premier research institutions and routinely ranks in the top of all U.S. universities in research expenditures. There are numerous research opportunities in which our students may engage, both within the Department of Economics as well as at other departments, schools, and on-campus research institutes.

Applicant Information

Interested in learning more about the program before applying? We’ve compiled information and links to help guide you through the process. From Application Instructions & Process, to Qualifications and Graduate School FAQs, to Financial Aid info, and more! We also hold Information Sessions, host Campus Visits, and provide a Guide to Durham, NC.

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What Our Former Students Say ...

Emma Zang

Emma Zang, MA '17, Assistant Professor of Sociology, Yale University 

“Duke Economics faculty members are deeply committed to policy-driven research and are open-minded about research in other disciplines. The courses offered in the Economics department were among the best ones I took at Duke. Through these courses, I received rigorous econometrics training and learned how economists discuss demography, family, and health."

Cameron Eagles

Cameron Eagles, MA '18, Special Projects Manager, Self-Help Credit Union 

“The economics program at Duke gave me advanced training in mathematics and modeling that prepared me both for real estate finance and for building models and visualizations to think about our own organizational growth. Courses like Urban Economics also helped me think about the history and context for organizations like mine.”

Master's Program News

A man in the cockpit of a fighter jet. There is water and earth in the background, he appears to be upside down.
The Economist Fighter Pilot
A group of 4 MSEC STUDENTS
Despite 2020 Challenges, MSEC Students Persevere
A woman on a video call
Duke Economics Welcomes 97 New Graduate Students
A collage of prominent Black figures
The Only Way to Truly Solve the Race Problem in America is to Narrow the Wealth Gap, Black Economists Say
Black and white headshot of new chair James Roberts
For New Econ Chair, Challenges are Why He Took the Job
Duke Chapel in Spring with blossoming flowers. It says "Celebration 2020" on text over image
Duke Economics Celebrates 2020 Graduates
A man sitting at a computer
Master's Program Holds First Visit Day for Accepted Students
Students listening to a presentation by Kent Kimbrough
Duke Economics Welcomes 89 New Master's Students
a student embracing a professor
Duke Economics Celebrates Spring 2019 Graduates
A sign in front of a window that reads "mindfulness"
Duke Financial Economics Center Offers Mindfulness Training to Duke Students
Norma Padron
Alumni Spotlight: Norma Padrón (MAE '08)
A collage of the event
Duke Economics Hosts Homecoming Happy Hour
students in classroom

For Current Students

We've compiled resources and links to assist you while working toward your master's – from requirements and processes, to writing and course guides, to internships and ESL, to advising and EcoTeach services, and so much more.

See All Resources