
The Economics and Computation master’s program at University of Duke provides an intensive, one-year curriculum designed for students interested in applying computational methods to economic analysis. The program combines rigorous training in economic theory with advanced techniques in data analysis, programming and quantitative modeling, preparing students to solve complex problems in finance, public policy and business. Students gain hands-on experience in using computational tools to study market behavior, forecast economic trends and evaluate policy interventions, allowing them to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical, data-driven applications. The condensed structure ensures focused learning while offering comprehensive exposure to both economics and computational methods.
Participants benefit from expert faculty guidance, access to modern computational resources and opportunities for applied research projects. The curriculum emphasizes quantitative modeling, computational economics, data analysis and economic research, enabling learners to develop both analytical and technical expertise. Through project-based assignments, seminars and research exercises, students strengthen their problem-solving and decision-making skills in real-world economic contexts. This combination of advanced coursework and applied learning equips graduates to excel in analytical roles, policy research or further academic study in economics and computational disciplines.
Semester 1 – Foundations in Economics and Computation
• Microeconomic and Macroeconomic Theory
• Introduction to Computational Methods
• Statistical Analysis and Econometrics
• Programming for Economic Applications
Semester 2 – Advanced Applications & Research
• Applied Computational Modeling
• Financial and Policy Data Analysis
• Seminar: Economic Simulation and Forecasting
• Research Project / Capstone Paper
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for analytical and research-focused roles in both public and private sectors. Common career paths include data analyst, quantitative economist, financial consultant and policy researcher. Additional opportunities exist in government agencies, financial institutions, research organizations, technology companies and think tanks, where strong skills in computational modeling and economic analysis are essential. The program also provides a strong foundation for those pursuing doctoral studies in economics, computational finance or data-driven policy research. With rigorous training in both economics and computation, graduates are equipped to address complex analytical challenges in professional and academic settings.
This one-year master’s program is ideal for students seeking an intensive, quantitative and computational approach to economic study. Its curriculum emphasizes data-driven analysis, economic modeling, computational methods and applied research experience, preparing learners for fast-paced analytical careers. Students engage in project-based assignments, seminars and faculty-guided research that enhance both technical proficiency and critical thinking. The program’s condensed, focused structure ensures that students quickly gain expertise in computational economics while building a professional portfolio that demonstrates their practical and analytical skills. For those aiming to combine economic theory with advanced computational tools, this program offers a rigorous and highly effective path.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 (919) 684-8111
Email: admissions@duke.edu
Address: University of Duke, Durham, North Carolina, United States