Solving real-world economic challenges sustainably
The B.S. in Environmental & Water Resource Economics prepares students to develop sustainable communities through more responsible and ethical economic policies. By studying subjects like law, history, climate assessment, policy and environmental resources, you’ll be ready to lead the economic changes needed to bring quality drinking water and resources to communities. This degree will prepare you to work with private firms, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and schools, or continue your studies in graduate school.
College is a big investment, but a University of Arizona education may be more affordable than you think. No matter your background or family’s financial situation, you have options to make it manageable.
At Arizona, 9 out of 10 students receive financial aid. That means most students pay less than the estimates shown here. By maximizing your financial aid – scholarships, grants, loans, or work-study – you can lower your costs while earning a degree that will pay you back for a lifetime.
Estimated cost of tuition for first-year and transfer students:
- Arizona residents: $13,900/yr
- Non-Arizona residents: $42,300/yr
Get our degree guide to learn how students like you are funding their futures.
A degree in Environmental & Water Resource Economics prepares you for careers in applied finance, policy and economic analysis. It also can serve as a springboard for graduate school. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023 median pay for business and financial careers was $79,050. Similar careers include:
- Environmental educator: Plan events and programs to educate the next generation about environmental issues and encourage thoughtful stewardship of the natural world.
- Water quality manager: Monitor and oversee compliance of safe, quality drinking water while guiding optimal, efficient water systems.
- Environmental economic policy analyst: Work as a political scientist to understand the effects of policies and assist government agencies or private corporations with business decisions relevant to the environment.
- Legal assistant/paralegal: Assist environmental law attorneys with a full range of legal support work, including research, analysis, drafting legal documents, trial preparation, and records and case management.
- Geographic information system specialist: Build, maintain, and analyze GIS databases and create interfaces and programs, such as maps, for environmental and education purposes.
Application requirements vary based on your status as a first-time, transfer, international, online or returning student.
- Students who haven't completed 12+ transferable post-high school college credits are considered a first-time college student, and must meet Arizona's core competency requirements to be eligible to apply.
- You are considered a transfer student if you have completed 12+ transferable post-high school college credits.
- If you are under the age of 22 at the start of your desired term, you will need to meet the core competency requirements and have a minimum 2.0 cumulative college/university GPA.
- If you are 22 or older at the start of your desired term, you will need a minimum 2.0 cumulative college/university GPA.
- SAT/ACT scores are not required for general admission.
- You have the option to submit a resume and 500-word personal statement during your application.
Get our degree guide to find out more details about the application process and deadlines.
Ready to start your career in applied resource economics?
From our welcoming local community to our sunny campus, every corner holds the promise of new adventures and personal growth. Your journey to a career at the intersection of applied economics and business management starts here. Sign up to discover what it means to be a part of the University of Arizona College of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences.