Master of Science in Commerce and Economic Development — Boston
The Master of Science in Commerce and Economic Development, a STEM-designated program, integrates economics, leadership, technology, and public policy to prepare students for a career in the private or public sector.
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We’re committed to creating an education as unique as your career path. So, whether your goal is a new career or moving up in your field, our innovative programs will get you going your way.
Overview
Northeastern’s Master of Science in Commerce and Economic Development empowers you with the knowledge and tools to confidently guide private and public decision-making by integrating an applied economics study of information, institutions and innovation.
Through a targeted curriculum that emphasizes the use of quantitative techniques to tackle the challenge of big data, this master’s program provides in-depth knowledge of the financial, regulatory, economic environments and institutions that affect the global economy – including the impact of art, culture, and environmental resources on economic development.
This innovative STEM degree is capped by an experiential placement opportunity where you’ll synthesize classroom learning with hands-on applications to real-world problems. Graduates emerge prepared with the skills to take on jobs in government, nonprofit organizations and positions in global economic analysis and international trade.
Program Objectives
- Translate economic theory and classroom materials into core competencies
- Apply quantitative skills in the areas of economics, economic theory, policy analysis, and research
- Learn to set prices and output levels
- Use conceptual and mathematical tools to examine fluctuations in employment, prices, and economic growth
- Develop skills in data collection, estimation, and results interpretation
- Apply theories of economic growth, technology, structural changes, industrialization, factor proportions and prices, trade, population, and income distribution
- Evaluate labor markets and the role of human capital
- Assess how art, culture, and entertainment impact economic development
- Analyze the impact of environmental resources on commerce and economic development
Unique Features
- Program designed for midcareer professionals
- Graduates are positioned for jobs in government, international organizations, nonprofit organizations, universities, or the private sector
- STEM designation allows international students to apply for a 24-month OPT STEM Extension to their 12-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) period, allowing them to work in the U.S. for up to 36 months after graduation
- Required capstone project
- Financial Economics concentration prepares students for the CFA Institute Level I exam
Please note: Beginning fall 2026, this program will shift from a quarter-based academic calendar to a semester format. View the program conversion guide for curriculum details or visit our FAQ page for more information.
If you enter this program before fall 2026, your academic advisor will work with you to ensure a smooth transition. This change will not impact your academic progress, path to graduation, or tuition costs.
Career Prospects
Beginning your journey with us is a big decision. But it's a smart one. Your field is evolving rapidly. That's why we're constantly innovating our programs to anticipate your industry's needs. So, no matter where your field goes, you can lead the way.
Average Salary, Data Scientist
Average Salary, Economist
Northeastern's signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace. This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.
Experiential Learning and Co-ops
Apply classroom learning to real-world professional settings during experiential project execution inside of coursework.
Program Curriculum
For details on required courses, concentrations, and electives, please consult the current academic catalog.
Follow Our Leaders
"Today, more than ever before, having a background in economics, finance, and analytics and developing quantitative skills are the determining factors in the success in both the public and private sectors, for-profit and non-profit institutions, and at the national and global levels. At the same time, today’s job market requires an interdisciplinary set of skills in technology, data, project management, leadership, business acumen, and a global mindset."
- Mikhail Oet, Lead Faculty of the Commerce and Economic Development program
The ability to pursue a master’s degree without halting my career allowed me to grow academically while thriving at work; I immediately applied learned skills and theoretical knowledge to my day-to-day tasks. Northeastern further broadened my skillset with its Experiential Network, where I was matched to unforgettable projects for impactful companies that I remain involved with today.
Caitie Parsons - Master's in Commerce and Economic Development, 2020
Cost and Tuition
Tuition
Avg Institutional Aid
% Receiving Aid
Estimated Total Tuition
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.
For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.
Application Deadlines
Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:
Domestic Application Guidelines
International Application Guidelines*
*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.
Did you know?
Below is a look at where our business alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.
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Where They Work
- State Street
- Fidelity Investments
- Dell EMC
- IBM
- Raytheon
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What They Do
- Business Development
- Sales
- Operations
- Finance
- Entrepreneurship
-
What They're Skilled At
- Management
- Leadership
- Customer Service
- Project Management
- Strategic Planning
Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on Linkedin.
Related Programs
Admissions
Ready to explore your future?
Our enrollment representatives can walk you through the application process and help you explore your program options.
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