The Master of Science in Economics prepares individuals to think critically using concepts and applications from economic theory. Economic reasoning is a necessary competency for leaders in business, politics, law and society. A biblical worldview is integrated throughout the program, and the study of economics provides a biblical foundation for serving the poor through economic development.

The MS in Economics at Colorado Christian University provides graduate students with the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to lead in a global environment, whether working in business, government, or even the non-profit/NGO sector. The foundation is built on traditional neoclassical (market-based) theories and quantitative methods. The student then applies the economic theories and concepts in the domestic and international arenas. Currently relevant topics such as development economics and econometrics prepare the student to face the economic challenges in our society today.

The international focus of the program goes beyond the core international trade and international finance courses to also include international political economy in which the student gains a deep understanding of how to address the issues of wealth and poverty in our world. This focus on economic development reflects the biblical mandate to care for the least advantaged. Every course integrates a biblical worldview, preparing leaders to apply their knowledge of economics with a Christian perspective. The program concludes with a capstone course in which the student applies his/her learning to a project within a real-world organization.

Admission to the Master of Science in Economics

Admission to the Master of Science in Economics program is selective. Applicants are evaluated on the basis of previous academic performance, personal and professional accomplishments and goals, and strength of character. A strong desire to complete graduate-level work in a Christ-centered, biblically based community is important. All MS Economics admissions decisions are made by and only by Colorado Christian University.

Admission Requirements:

  • Earned Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.

  • A minimum undergraduate grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with an undergraduate grade point average between 2.0 and 2.49 will be admitted on a conditional admit (CAD) basis for the first semester.  CAD students must maintain a 3.0 GPA or better in their first nine (9) credits to remain in the program.

  • Completed online application form (including essay, transcripts, and fees) at www.ccu.edu/ccu/grad/.

  • Demonstrated completion (C or better) of the following undergraduate-level prerequisite courses, taken at CCU or through transfer equivalency, before starting the MS Economics program. Students may also satisfy these prerequisites with confirmed core competencies verified by passing scores on content exams. 

    • Principles of Macroeconomics: course

    • Principles of Microeconomics: course

    • Introduction to Research and Applied Statistics: course 

Students who have not satisfied undergraduate coursework equivalent to Calculus II should follow this math sequence until Calculus II proficiency is verified:

Students may also enroll in the Economics Prep program prior to starting the MS Economics program, and take the prerequisite classes with potential financial aid eligibility. The Economics Prep program is a 5th-year undergraduate, post-baccalaureate academic program consisting of the MS Economics prerequisite courses. Please consult your enrollment counselor for further information.

Time Limitation

The Master of Science in Economics program is a 30 credit-hour degree designed to be completed within 15 months of intensive accelerated adult graduate study by persons who work or are otherwise occupied by the equivalent of a full time job.

All work applied toward a master’s degree must be completed within a four-year period from the date of enrollment. After the four-year period, an MS Economics student who has not completed the requirements to graduate will be withdrawn from the program. Students who go beyond the four-year period and wish to complete their Master of Science in Economics degree will be required to apply for reconsideration by completing a Petition for Exception to Academic Policy. Readmitted students will be required to adhere to the degree plans and academic policies in place at the time they are readmitted.