The University of Massachusetts (UMass) offers a comprehensive program in Resource Economics, which is an interdisciplinary field that applies economic principles to the management and allocation of natural resources. The department of Resource Economics at UMass Amherst is one of the leading programs in the country, with a strong focus on research and teaching in areas such as environmental economics, agricultural economics, and natural resource management.
Overview of the Program
The Resource Economics program at UMass Amherst is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in economic theory, as well as a deep understanding of the complex relationships between human economic activity and the natural environment. The program offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, including a Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Ph.D. in Resource Economics. The curriculum includes courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and environmental economics, as well as specialized courses in areas such as agricultural economics, forestry economics, and water resource economics.
Research Focus Areas
The department of Resource Economics at UMass Amherst has a strong research focus in several areas, including:
- Environmental economics and policy
- Agricultural economics and policy
- Natural resource management and conservation
- Climate change and energy economics
- Water resource economics and management
Faculty members in the department are actively engaged in research projects in these areas, and students have opportunities to work with faculty on research projects and internships.
Faculty and Research Expertise
The department of Resource Economics at UMass Amherst has a diverse and experienced faculty with expertise in a range of areas related to resource economics. Some of the faculty members have research expertise in:
| Faculty Member | Research Expertise |
|---|---|
| Dr. Christine Crago | Agricultural economics, environmental economics, and policy analysis |
| Dr. Christopher Barrington-Leigh | Environmental economics, climate change, and energy economics |
| Dr. David King | Natural resource management, conservation biology, and ecological economics |
These faculty members, along with others in the department, provide students with a comprehensive education in resource economics and opportunities for research and professional development.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Resource Economics program at UMass Amherst have a wide range of career opportunities in fields such as:
- Environmental consulting and policy analysis
- Agricultural economics and policy
- Natural resource management and conservation
- Climate change and energy economics
- Water resource economics and management
Many graduates have gone on to work in government agencies, private industry, and non-profit organizations, applying their knowledge and skills to real-world problems in resource management and conservation.
What are the admission requirements for the Resource Economics program at UMass Amherst?
+Admission requirements for the Resource Economics program at UMass Amherst include a strong academic record, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Students are also required to submit official transcripts and test scores (such as the GRE or GMAT). International students may have additional requirements, such as English language proficiency tests.
What kind of research opportunities are available to students in the Resource Economics program?
+Students in the Resource Economics program at UMass Amherst have opportunities to work with faculty on research projects, internships, and independent studies. Research areas include environmental economics, agricultural economics, natural resource management, and climate change, among others. Students can also participate in research centers and institutes on campus, such as the Center for Agricultural and Resource Economics and the Environmental Institute.
Conclusion
The Resource Economics program at UMass Amherst is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary program that provides students with a solid foundation in economic theory and a deep understanding of the complex relationships between human economic activity and the natural environment. With a strong research focus and experienced faculty, the program offers students a wide range of opportunities for research, professional development, and career advancement in fields such as environmental economics, agricultural economics, and natural resource management.
