Program Overview
The ACE M.S. program offers considerable flexibility. Students using the degree as a foundation for a doctorate emphasize economic theory and analytical research tools. Students seeking the terminal master's degree focus their study on the concepts and analytical techniques used by analysts and managers in industries, governments, and other organizations.
Student Thesis and Dissertation Research
Our students鈥� research uses economics to address important social and economic challenges. Thesis and dissertation topics include designing policies for environmental protection and resource management, evaluating international efforts to reduce poverty and hunger, and enhancing the performance of commodity and speculative markets.
Graduate Teaching Experience
Although teaching is not a general Graduate College requirement, experience in teaching is considered an important part of the graduate experience in this program and is strongly recommended for those intending to pursue an academic career.
September 2025
College of Agricultural Consumer and Environmental Sciences
128 Mumford Hall,
1301 West Gregory Drive,
URBANA,
Illinois,
61801, United States
Applicants must have earned at least a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college in the United States or a comparable degree from a recognized institution of higher learning abroad. A grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 (A=4.0), or comparable GPA for an international applicant, for last two years of undergraduate study is a minimum requirement for admission.
English Language Requirements:
TOEFL iBT - 79-102
TOEFL CBT - 213-253
TOEFL PBT - 550-610
IELTS (academic exam) - 6.5-7.0
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
