The Economics MA: Economics and Computation stream gives students the opportunity to combine theory and insights from computer science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence with training in economic thinking and modelling. This stream is tailored for students with technical backgrounds—with or without prior economics coursework. Students will take graduate courses in both economics and computer science fostering highly demanded interdisciplinary skills for tackling complex economic challenges.
Entrance Requirements
• BSc in Computer Science or equivalent degree. Other undergraduate degrees with equivalent coursework will be considered. Undergraduate machine learning courses are strongly encouraged.
• Required coursework beyond computer science: linear algebra, multivariate calculus, probability, and mathematical statistics.
• While not required, undergraduate economics courses are an asset.
Interested applicants should submit the standard Economics MA application and select the box indicating interest in the stream.
Core Program Structure
The Economics MA: Economics and Computation Stream shares core economics courses with the MA program but replaces 6 credits of economics courses (2 courses) with 6 credits of graduate-level computer science courses.
Students undertake an online mathematics review and may be given additional material to prepare for economics courses.
Students complete 24 credits of coursework including courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics along with economics and computer science electives.
In ECON 594 Applied Economics (a six-credit course) students design an original capstone research project culminating in a Major Essay based on that research in ECON 595 (a 0 credit graduation requirement ).
Upon completing satisfactory standing in 30 credits of work (and ECON 595), students earn their master's degree.