M.S. in Quantative Economics

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 50

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution.  

2. Grade Point Average (GPA): International students are required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 60% or higher on a scale determined by the applicant's home country's grading system.

English Language Proficiency:

1. IELTS: An overall score of at least 6.0 with no individual band score below 6.0.

2. TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 73 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) internet-based test.

3. DET (Duolingo English Test): A score of at least 105.

4. PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 49.

Western Illinois University (WIU) offers several scholarships to international students to assist them in financing their education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, talents, leadership, and other criteria. 

1. Presidential Scholarships: These scholarships are among the most prestigious at WIU and are awarded to academically exceptional students. They cover a significant portion of tuition costs and are renewable for up to eight semesters.

2. International Commitment Scholarships: WIU offers a range of international commitment scholarships to incoming international undergraduate students. These scholarships are based on academic merit and are available at varying levels of funding.

3. International Transfer Scholarships: Transfer students from international institutions can apply for transfer scholarships to help fund their education at WIU. The scholarship amounts may vary based on academic achievement.

4. Global Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to recognize and support outstanding international students. They are awarded based on academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.

5. International Peace Scholarship: WIU offers this scholarship to female international students who have a strong commitment to international understanding and peace. It's part of the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship Fund.

6. Graduate Assistantships: WIU provides graduate assistantship opportunities to international graduate students. These positions offer a stipend, tuition waiver, and valuable work experience within the university.

7. College and Departmental Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within WIU offer scholarships to international students pursuing specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary by department.

8. Foundation Scholarships: WIU's Foundation administers a wide range of scholarships, some of which are available to international students. These scholarships are often based on specific majors or criteria defined by donors.

9. External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and through international organizations, to help finance their education at WIU.

10. Fulbright Scholar Program: While not directly administered by WIU, international students can apply for the prestigious Fulbright Scholar Program, which provides funding for academic and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.

To apply for scholarships at WIU, international students typically need to submit an application for admission and a separate scholarship application, if required. Deadlines and eligibility criteria can vary.

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Quantitative Economics program at Western Illinois University (WIU) opens doors to a wide array of career opportunities in economics, data analysis, policy research, and academia. Graduates of this program are equipped with advanced quantitative skills and a deep understanding of economic theory, making them highly sought-after professionals in today's data-driven job market.

1. Economist: Graduates can pursue roles as economists in various sectors, including government agencies, financial institutions, research organizations, and consulting firms. They analyze economic data, forecast trends, and provide valuable insights for informed decision-making.

2. Data Analyst/Data Scientist: The program's quantitative focus prepares students for careers as data analysts or data scientists. They can work in industries such as finance, healthcare, marketing, and technology, using their skills to extract actionable insights from complex datasets.

3. Policy Analyst: Graduates can enter the field of policy analysis, where they evaluate the economic impact of policies and proposals for government agencies, think tanks, and advocacy organizations. They play a crucial role in shaping public policy decisions.

4. Financial Analyst: The financial sector offers opportunities for graduates to work as financial analysts, assessing investment opportunities, conducting risk assessments, and providing financial advice to clients or organizations.

5. Research Analyst: Many organizations, including market research firms and academic institutions, hire graduates as research analysts. They conduct economic and market research to support business decisions or academic studies.

6. Teaching and Academia: For those interested in academia, the M.S. in Quantitative Economics can serve as a stepping stone to doctoral programs. Graduates may pursue a Ph.D. in economics and become professors or researchers in universities and colleges.