A Legacy of Academic Excellence
For over a century, the Tufts Economics Department has been renowned for its rigorous curriculum, exceptional faculty, and groundbreaking research. Nestled within the vibrant academic community of Tufts University, the department has consistently maintained its position among the nation’s top economics programs.

Cutting-Edge Research and Innovation
Tufts economics faculty are at the forefront of shaping economic thought. Their research spans a wide range of topics, including:
- Behavioral economics
- Economic development
- Environmental economics
- Finance
- Macroeconomics
- Microeconomics
Faculty of Distinction
The department’s faculty comprises distinguished economists whose expertise and international recognition have earned them accolades and awards. Notable professors include:
- Professor Matthew Kahn, an expert in environmental economics and energy policy
- Professor Douglas Elmendorf, a former Director of the Congressional Budget Office
- Professor Janice Eberly, a leading authority on behavioral economics
World-Class Curriculum
The Tufts Economics Department offers a comprehensive undergraduate and graduate curriculum that provides students with a deep understanding of economic principles and analytical techniques. Undergraduate coursework covers core economic theories, microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and quantitative methods. Graduate programs specialize in particular economic subfields, such as development economics, environmental economics, and finance.
Real-World Applications
The economics program at Tufts emphasizes the practical applications of economic principles. Students participate in internships, research projects, and case studies that allow them to apply their knowledge to real-world problems. The department also hosts frequent guest speakers from industry and government, providing students with insights into contemporary economic issues.
Career Pathways for Graduates
Tufts economics graduates pursue successful careers in a wide range of fields, including:
- Academia
- Business and finance
- Consulting
- Economic policy
- Research
Pain Points and Motivations
Pain Points:
- Increasing economic inequality
- Environmental degradation
- Slow economic growth
Motivations:
- Develop economic policies that promote equity and sustainability
- Foster innovation and entrepreneurship
- Address global economic challenges
Effective Strategies to Enhance the Department
- Invest in faculty research and graduate student fellowships
- Expand course offerings and specialization areas
- Strengthen partnerships with industry and policy organizations
- Enhance data infrastructure and computing resources
Tips and Tricks for Students
- Take advantage of the department’s research opportunities and internship programs
- Attend guest lectures and seminars
- Join student organizations related to economics
- Seek mentorship from faculty members
- Develop your analytical and communication skills
Tables
Table 1: Undergraduate Course Offerings
| Course Code | Course Title | Course Description |
|---|---|---|
| ECON001 | Principles of Microeconomics | Introduction to the principles of microeconomics |
| ECON002 | Principles of Macroeconomics | Introduction to the principles of macroeconomics |
| ECON003 | Intermediate Microeconomics | Intermediate microeconomic theory |
| ECON004 | Intermediate Macroeconomics | Intermediate macroeconomic theory |
Table 2: Graduate Degree Programs
| Degree Program | Coursework Focus |
|---|---|
| PhD in Economics | Research-intensive program with a focus on specialization |
| Master of Arts in Economics | Course-based program with a broad overview of economics |
| Master of Science in Economics | Course-based program with an emphasis on quantitative methods |
Table 3: Faculty Awards and Recognition
| Faculty Member | Award | Awarding Organization |
|---|---|---|
| Professor Matthew Kahn | MacArthur Foundation Fellowship | MacArthur Foundation |
| Professor Douglas Elmendorf | John Bates Clark Medal | American Economic Association |
| Professor Janice Eberly | Russell Sage Foundation Fellowship | Russell Sage Foundation |
Table 4: Graduate Employment Outcomes
| Sector | Percentage of Graduates |
|---|---|
| Academia | 20% |
| Business and Finance | 40% |
| Consulting | 25% |
| Economic Policy | 15% |
