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Environmental Economists

Education and Training Requirements

High School

Environmental economists need to have a strong educational foundation. Be sure to take classes in economics, mathematics (including calculus and statistics), social sciences, and any classes related to the environment. The job entails a great deal of data studying and report writing, which is why English and communications classes are recommended. Computer science classes are important, and foreign language classes are also beneficial.

Postsecondary Training

The minimum requirement for entry-level environmental economists jobs is a bachelor's degree with a major in economics. Most environmental economists have a master's degree or a Ph.D.

In general, the economics bachelor's degree program consists of about 10 classes on various economic topics, plus two or more mathematics courses, such as statistics and calculus or algebra. To work for the federal government, entry-level economists must have a minimum of 21 semester hours of economics and three hours of statistics, accounting, or calculus. Graduate degree courses include specialties such as advanced economic theory, econometrics, environmental economics, international economics, and labor economics. Bachelor's and master's degree students are usually required to participate in an internship and possibly a fellowship for practical experience in the field.

Certification or Licensing

The National Association for Business Economics offers certificate programs in applied econometrics and economic measurement. Visit https://www.nabe.com for more information. Additionally, many colleges and universities offer certificates in general economics or specialties. Contacts schools in your area to learn more.

Other Education or Training

Environmental economists continue learning throughout their careers. They must always know the current economic theories and practices as well as current environmental practices, issues, and government regulations. They take workshops and attend educational events and conferences offered by colleges and universities as well as by professional associations such as the Agricultural & Applied Economics Association, American Economic Association, Association of Environmental and Resource Economists, National Association for Business Economics, and the Society of Government Economists.

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