MS Applied Economics

Hey, I started my MS in Applied Economics in January (so I'm partway through my second semester now). Not sure how insightful my experiences will be fore you, given that I am still relatively new, but I am looking at transitioning from a research/policy based job into the private sector (finance/consulting). One thing that I would be aware of when researching programs is how flexible the courses are. I am in the DC area and was looking at local programs, including Georgetown, UMD, and JHU. The Georgetown and UMD programs both had a fixed 10-course track, with no or limited flexibility, whereas the JHU program was more established and offered far more electives, as well as the option to take classes at their b-school. I think it is pretty standard for most MSAE programs to require a statistics, econometrics, and then an advanced metrics level course (usually time-series). Some programs, like the JHU one, offer more electives in metrics/quantitative methods - macroeconometrics (time-series), microeconometrics (panel-data focused), financial econometrics, and more, all within the quantitative methods concentration.

Also, as far as job placement, I know that there are a reasonable number of finance jobs that are posted through the program's career center as well as through contacts in the program. I don't think it would be a substitute for an MBA if you were to try and move to an associate/post-MBA track at a finance gig, but it is a valuable skill set and something that can definitely set you apart.