MS in Economic Modeling, AI, & Data Science (EMAIDS) Admissions

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Harness the Power of Economics, AI, & Data Science

New this year, the Master of Science in Economic Modeling, AI, & Data Science (EMAIDS) combines economic theory and econometrics with data science and AI to prepare you for this new age of technology.

In this STEM-designated degree program, you will develop the theoretical knowledge and quantitative skills needed to uncover complex economic relationships, manage and analyze large datasets, and apply AI-enhanced methods for forecasting, classification, and pattern recognition. You will be prepared to deliver evidence-based policy recommendations and strategic solutions across diverse sectors, including business and finance, government, healthcare, and environmental organizations.

Application & Requirements     Curriculum

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Learning Outcomes

Analytical & Computational Problem-Solving

Students will formulate, analyze, and solve complex economic problems using mathematical modeling, programming, simulation, advanced data science, and AI-driven techniques. They will identify appropriate tools, define assumptions, and test hypotheses using both theoretical and empirical methods.

Data Proficiency, AI, & Quantitative Reasoning

Students will acquire, clean, manage, and analyze large and complex datasets. They will apply modern statistical, econometric, machine learning, and artificial intelligence methods to extract insights, evaluate policies, and make predictions—emphasizing reproducibility, transparency, and interpretation of uncertainty.

Integrated Use of Technology, AI Tools, & Programming

Students will demonstrate proficiency in programming languages (e.g., Python, R, Julia, or Stata) and data visualization tools, incorporating AI based workflows where appropriate, to automate processes, perform simulations, build models, and communicate findings effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Critical Thinking & Model Evaluation

Students will critically assess economic models, empirical strategies, and AI/ML algorithms— evaluating underlying assumptions, trade-offs, robustness, and relevance to real-world policy and business challenges. They will compare competing models and identify limitations in their application.

Interdisciplinary & Ethical Awareness

Students will recognize the interplay between economics, AI, data science, and adjacent disciplines—such as computer science, finance, and public policy— when tackling complex societal and economic problems. They will consider ethical implications of data use, AI-driven decision-making, and policy design.

Communication, Collaboration, & Leadership

Students will effectively communicate quantitative analyses and AI enhanced insights through written reports, oral presentations, and visualizations. They will develop teamwork and leadership skills, preparing them to work across disciplines and engage diverse audiences

Professional Readiness & Application

Students will apply their skills in professional contexts—through capstone projects, internships, or real-world case studies—demonstrating their ability to address AI- and data-intensive economic problems in industry, government, or international organizations.

Why EMAIDS?

An MS in EMAIDS will prepare you to:

  • Apply economic concepts and analytical frameworks to business and policy questions
  • Build economic and predictive models 
  • Harness AI to accelerate analysis and decision-making 
  • Evaluate and validate AI-generated outputs
  • Solve real-world economic and policy challenges
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Become an Economist for the AI age

In every industry, employers need professionals who can combine economic reasoning with econometrics, data science, and responsible AI to translate analysis into evidence-based, strategic solutions.

EMAIDS combines AI and economics to make you a leader for the new age of technology.
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Economic Tools
Learn how to use technical tools tailored to economic applications.
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Real-World Experience
Build your resume with an immersive capstone focused on real economic decisions.
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Economic Expertise
Gain a strong foundation in economic theory, modeling, and econometrics.
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Latest Technology
Get training in R, Python, data science, AI, and machine learning.
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One-Year Completion
Earn your degree in just one year on campus, over the fall and spring semesters, and a one-month summer session.

Develop expertise in the following areas:

Economic Reasoning & Modeling

  • Core economic concepts and analytical frameworks
  • Models of incentives, behavior, markets, and policy
  • Economic forecasting and decision-making under uncertainty
  • Evidence-based policy and strategic analysis

Econometrics, Data Science, & Machine Learning

  • Econometrics and statistical inference
  • R and Python programming for economic data
  • Data management and visualization
  • Predictive modeling and machine learning

AI for Economic Analysis

  • AI-assisted economic research and data analysis
  • Generative AI for coding, modeling, and communication
  • Applications of structured and unstructured economic data
  • Responsible AI use, governance, and ethics

Critical AI Evaluation & Communication

  • Define assumptions and test hypotheses
  • Distinguish prediction from causal evidence
  • Compare economic, econometric, and AI/ML models
  • Evaluate uncertainty, robustness, bias, and limitations
  • Communicate findings to technical and nontechnical audiences

Immersive Capstone

The EMAIDS program culminates in a four-week immersive capstone project that mirrors the pace, expectations, and collaboration of a full-time economic analytics role so you can graduate with practical experience, solving a real business, policy, or economic problem.

Working in a small team, you will define the problem, gather and analyze data, compare economic and statistical models, utilize AI-assisted workflows, and communicate a solution in a professional report and presentation.

You and your team will answer questions like:

  • What is the best location for a new fast-food restaurant?
  • How much should a company pay for insurance coverage?
  • Should a retailer introduce a new product, and what is the optimal price point?

Helpful Links
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Get in Touch
Contact our staff to learn more about the program.
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Application FAQ
Visit the Graduate College's site to review an Application FAQ.
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Apply Now
Complete the online application on the Graduate College's site.