Best Online Master’s in Economics 2026

Badge for BEST ONLINE MASTER'S IN ECONOMICS
By Dr. James Barham and Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Chloe Dembski
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • Many of the best online master’s in economics programs emphasize the use of modern data analysis tools like Python, R, and Stata, equipping students with practical skills in econometrics and big data for real-world economic problem-solving.
  • Top online master’s in economics programs often offer courses in international trade, global markets, and economic policy, preparing students to address global economic challenges and pursue careers with multinational corporations or policy organizations.
  • The programs in our ranking frequently provide specializations such as financial economics, behavioral economics, or environmental economics, allowing students to align their studies with their professional interests and goals.

Top 10 Online Master's in Economics Degrees in 2026

  1. Johns Hopkins University
  2. University of Arizona
  3. University of Missouri
  4. Northeastern University
  5. University of North Carolina at Greensboro
  6. University of Detroit Mercy
    +1
  7. University of Massachusetts Lowell
    +1
  8. Youngstown State University
    +1
  9. Southern New Hampshire University
    +2
  10. Missouri State University

Featured Programs

Ranking: Best Online Masters’s in Economics Degree Programs

  1. #1

    Johns Hopkins University

    Baltimore , MD
    #11 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #11 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #14 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026 #14 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $67K

    Acceptance

    6%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    39K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1545/35

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at Johns Hopkins University

    Cost of Degree: $65,956
    Expenses: $22,725
    Starting Salary: $88,666
    Salary after 4 years: $116,222
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Applied Economics
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 1-2 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Applied Economics and Certificate in Financial Management
    • Required Credits: 45
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS/MBA in Applied Economics and MBA Dual Degree
    • Required Credits: 66
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Applied Economics and Certificate in Investments
    • Required Credits: 45
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    University of Arizona

    Tucson , AZ
    #3 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2026 #18 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #19 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #19 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    71%

    Student body

    62K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1285/25

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at University of Arizona

    Cost of Degree: $14,389
    Expenses: $19,500
    Starting Salary: $73,042
    Salary after 4 years: $84,612
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    Master in Legal Studies

    Concentrations

    • International Economic Law and Policy
    • Compliance and Legal Risk Management
    • Intellectual Property
    • Indigenous Peoples Law and Policy
    • Human Rights
    • Mining Law and Policy
    • Environmental Law and Policy
    • Tax Law and Policy
    • Criminal Law and Policy
    • Family and Juvenile Law
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  3. #3

    University of Missouri

    Columbia , MO
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2026 #1 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2026 #2 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2026 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    77%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1240/26

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at University of Missouri

    Cost of Degree: $13,029
    Expenses: $18,142
    Starting Salary: $75,798
    Salary after 4 years: $87,806
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MA in Economics
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  4. #4

    Northeastern University

    Boston , MA
    #8 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2026 #9 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2026 #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Massachusetts #3 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)

    Tuition + fees

    $69K

    Acceptance

    5%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    42K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1490/34

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at Northeastern University

    Cost of Degree: $28,100
    Expenses: $21,590
    Starting Salary: $84,242
    Salary after 4 years: $110,423
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Commerce and Economic Development
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 12-18 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  6. #5

    University of North Carolina at Greensboro

    Greensboro , NC
    #10 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2026 #6 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2026 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2026 #7 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    20K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1252/24

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at University of North Carolina at Greensboro

    Cost of Degree: $8,546
    Expenses: $14,720
    Starting Salary: $57,860
    Salary after 4 years: $67,026
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MA in Applied Economics
    • Required Credits: 30-33
    • Completion time: 12-24 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  7. #6

    University of Detroit Mercy

    Detroit , MI
    #13 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2026 #2 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2026 #2 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2026 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1145/25

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at University of Detroit Mercy

    Cost of Degree: $22,250
    Expenses: $15,190
    Starting Salary: $62,823
    Salary after 4 years: $82,348
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MA in Economics
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MA in Financial Economics
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  8. #7

    University of Massachusetts Lowell

    Lowell , MA
    #3 Best Public Colleges in Massachusetts 2026 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts Ranked for Students in 2026 #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Massachusetts 2026 #2 Best Online Associate Degree Programs That Can Be Completed in 1 Year

    Tuition + fees

    $18K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    20K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1275/28

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at University of Massachusetts Lowell

    Cost of Degree: $16,050
    Expenses: $17,994
    Starting Salary: $84,500
    Salary after 4 years: $97,885
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MA in Security Studies

    Concentrations

    • Industrial And Economic Security
    • Required Credits: 15
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  9. #8

    Youngstown State University

    Youngstown , OH
    #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2026 #5 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2026 #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Ohio #11 Best Online Master's Programs in Ohio 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1120/22

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at Youngstown State University

    Cost of Degree: $6,615
    Expenses: $15,608
    Starting Salary: $50,589
    Salary after 4 years: $58,603
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MA in Financial Economics
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  10. #9

    Southern New Hampshire University

    Manchester , NH
    #10 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2026 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Hampshire 2026 #2 Best Private Colleges in New Hampshire 2026 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in New Hampshire 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $18K

    Acceptance

    100%

    Graduation

    42%

    Student body

    255K

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at Southern New Hampshire University

    Cost of Degree: $20,469
    Expenses: $24,000
    Starting Salary: $48,212
    Salary after 4 years: $63,195
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Applied Economics
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  12. #10

    Missouri State University

    Springfield , MO
    #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2026 #6 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2026 #6 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2026 #10 Best Colleges in Missouri 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    91%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    27K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1145/22

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at Missouri State University

    Cost of Degree: $7,476
    Expenses: $16,024
    Starting Salary: $57,188
    Salary after 4 years: $66,248
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MPA in Public Administration

    Concentrations

    • Economic development
    • Local government management
    • Public policy
    • Public safety
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  13. #11

    Murray State University

    Murray , KY
    #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Kentucky 2026 #6 Best Public Colleges in Kentucky 2026 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Kentucky 2026 #9 Best Colleges in Kentucky 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    12K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1055/22

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at Murray State University

    Cost of Degree: $10,368
    Expenses: $17,211
    Starting Salary: $52,529
    Salary after 4 years: $60,851
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Economic Development
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 10-12 months
    • Format: Online
    MBA in Economic Development

    Concentrations

    • Business Analytics
    • Cybersecurity
    • Economic Development
    • Finance
    • Global Communications
    • Healthcare Administration
    • Marketing
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 12-18 months
    • Format: Online
    MPA in Economic Development

    Concentrations

    • General
    • Economic Development
    • Healthcare Administration
    • Public and Community Health
    • Public Management
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 12 months
    • Format: Online
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  14. #12

    Manhattan College

    Riverdale , NY
    #25 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2026 #7 Best Christian Colleges in New York 2026 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $56K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1269/27

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at Manhattan College

    Cost of Degree: $22,600
    Expenses: $21,740
    Starting Salary: $78,759
    Salary after 4 years: $103,237
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MBA – Finance and Economics

    Concentrations

    • Finance and Economics
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
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  15. #13

    Empire State University

    Saratoga Springs , NY
    #2 Best Online Associate in Economics #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Math Degree Programs Ranked for 2026 #2 Best Online Associate in Education #4 Best Online Associate in Mathematics 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    16K

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at Empire State University

    Cost of Degree: $11,870
    Starting Salary: $64,477
    Salary after 4 years: $74,691

    Online Degrees

    MA in Community and Economic Development
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  16. #14

    Northwood University

    Midland , MI
    #3 Best Online MBA in Economics Degree Programs Ranked in 2026 #4 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Michigan #10 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2026 #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    65%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at Northwood University

    Cost of Degree: $37,980
    Expenses: $16,938
    Starting Salary: $57,742
    Salary after 4 years: $75,687
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MBA with Economics concentration

    Concentrations

    • Economics
    • Accounting
    • Advertising & Marketing
    • Aftermarket Management
    • Automotive Marketing & Management
    • Cybersecurity Management
    • Entertainment
    • Sport & Promotion Management
    • Esports Management
    • Fashion Marketing & Management
    • Finance
    • Franchising Management
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 12-24 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  18. #15

    Saginaw Valley State University

    University Center , MI
    #4 Best Online MBA in Economics Degree Programs Ranked in 2026 #16 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan #17 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    72%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1045/22

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at Saginaw Valley State University

    Cost of Degree: $17,328
    Expenses: $14,040
    Starting Salary: $60,500
    Salary after 4 years: $70,083
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Accounting
    • Business Analytics
    • Criminal Justice
    • Economics
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Executive
    • Finance
    • Financial Planning
    • General
    • Global
    • Management
    • Healthcare Management
    • Hospitality Management
    • Human Resources
    • Information Security
    • Information Systems
    • Leadership
    • Marketing
    • Project Management
    • Public Administration
    • Supply Chain Management
    • Required Credits: 31
    • Completion time: 18-24 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  19. #16

    West Texas A&M University

    Canyon , TX
    #14 Best Colleges and Universities for Biology Degrees 2026 #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Biology 2026 #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Math Degree Programs Ranked for 2026 #11 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    11K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1060/20

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at West Texas A&M University

    Cost of Degree: $7,284
    Expenses: $15,503
    Starting Salary: $59,618
    Salary after 4 years: $69,062
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Finance and Economics
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  20. #17

    Park University

    Parkville , MO
    #10 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2026 #1 Best Online Associate in Building and Construction Degree Programs #1 Best Online Associate in Psychology #3 Most Affordable Online Associate Degree Programs Ranked for 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $18K

    Graduation

    36%

    Student body

    9K

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at Park University

    Cost of Degree: $7,942
    Expenses: $14,178
    Starting Salary: $52,691
    Salary after 4 years: $69,067
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Economics

    Concentrations

    • Accounting
    • Business Economics
    • International Business and Economic Development
    • Labor Economics
    • Computer Information Management
    • Corporate Financial Management
    • Digital Marketing
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Health Care
    • Human Resource Management
    • International Business
    • Logistics
    • Management
    • Marketing
    • Personal Financial Planning
    • Professional Sales
    • Project Management
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion time: 1-2 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  21. #18

    Utica University

    Utica , NY
    #4 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs 2026 #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degree Programs in New York #11 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs) #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $28K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at Utica University

    Cost of Degree: $25,580
    Expenses: $15,883
    Starting Salary: $59,047
    Salary after 4 years: $77,398
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Economic Crime

    Concentrations

    • Economic Crime and Fraud Management
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  22. #19

    Colorado Christian University

    Lakewood , CO
    #2 Best Christian Colleges in Colorado 2026 #7 Best Private Colleges in Colorado 2026 #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Colorado #2 Best Online Associate in Psychology

    Tuition + fees

    $43K

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    17K

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at Colorado Christian University

    Cost of Degree: $16,733
    Expenses: $14,976
    Starting Salary: $44,104
    Salary after 4 years: $57,811
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Economics
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 15 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  24. #20

    University of Houston–Victoria

    Victoria , TX
    #15 Best Colleges and Universities for Biology Degrees 2026 #3 Best Online Master’s in Game Development & Design 2026 #3 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs 2026 #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Kinesiology Degree Programs for 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    22%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1086/22

    Career Outlook for Economics degree at University of Houston–Victoria

    Cost of Degree: $8,315
    Expenses: $15,252
    Starting Salary: $60,535
    Salary after 4 years: $70,125
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Economic Development and Entrepreneurship
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school

Career Outlook for Students with Economics Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Economics

Degree Level: Master's

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $14,411
  • Avg. Expenses*: $19,822
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $75,311
  • Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $87,240
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 5 years
  • Job Growth: 6.73%
  • Number of Jobs: 2,266,100
  • * denotes ‘annually’
  • ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Managers, All Other5.75%$133,560
Economists5.14%$115,730
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary3.23%$115,300
Data Scientists36.03%$108,020
Statisticians11.73%$104,110

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Managers, All Other$133,560
Economists$115,730
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary$115,300
Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

Searching for the best online master’s in economics in 2026 means comparing programs by curriculum strength, quantitative rigor, career support, and flexibility rather than prestige alone. Top choices differ in emphasis—some prioritize econometrics and data analysis for research and policy roles, others center on applied finance or business analytics for industry careers—so the right program depends on whether you need technical training, sector-specific coursework, or a schedule that fits full-time work.

Focus your evaluation on accreditation, faculty expertise, elective and specialization options, practicum or capstone experiences, and outcomes such as placement or career services. Cost, delivery format (synchronous vs. asynchronous), and opportunities for internships or networking will determine how well a program advances your specific goals in finance, consulting, public policy, or academia.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master’s in Economics Programs

Students who wish to become economists, or leaders in areas such as financial consultation and investment advising, should consider earning this advanced degree. Opportunities such as policy analyst and data scientist are often reserved for those who have earned a master’s degree. If you plan to conduct research or teach at the post-secondary level, this advanced degree is widely seen as an important threshold on your path to a PhD.

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The emphasis on academic credentials in economics is high. Your advanced degree will make you more appealing to employers and open the door to greater career advancement. You could also work in a wide variety of professional settings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2019, 23% of economists worked as researchers and analysts in the financial government, with an additional 9% working in government at the state level. 18% worked in scientific development and another 17% were working in management, scientific, and technical consulting services. Just 7% were employed in the areas of finance and insurance, suggesting that as a graduate with a master’s in economics, you have a lot of career options.

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You now have the choice to pursue a master’s in economics online from top-notch colleges and universities. For many, the flexibliilty of online degree programs mean the have the opportunity to get a degree when previously it may have been difficult or nearly impossible.

Some master’s in economics degree programs may require you to complete a Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Scoring requirements will vary from one economics master’s program to the next.

If no GRE is required, the primary requirement for gaining eligibility into an economics master’s program is completion of a bachelor’s degree from a properly accredited undergraduate school. While programmatic accreditation is not specifically required in this field, most regionally accredited graduate schools will require that your bachelor’s degree be granted by a regionally accredited college or university.

Direct any further questions to a representative from your intended program including inquiries about application requirements, work experience, academic performance thresholds, referrals, and prerequisite courses. If you’re still working on building your qualifications, check out our look at the economics major to find out how you can get an undergraduate degree in economics.

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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of job opportunities for economists is expected to grow at a robust rate of 14% by 2029. Depending on what you choose to do within the field, your economics degree could also lead to well above-average pay. The BLS reports that financial analysts earned a median salary of $81,590 in 2019, while personal financial advisors earned $87,850, and economists pulled in $105,020.

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The following are among the most popular jobs for economics masters:

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Learn more about what you can do with a master’s in economics.

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