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Dual Master's Degree in Applied Economics and Social and Economic Policy

Two Campuses. Two Cultures. Two Degrees

With interdisciplinary expertise and international experience, Dual Master's in Applied Economics (CUHK) and Social and Economic Policy (Northwestern) graduates are uniquely positioned to become leaders in their professions.

A pathbreaking dual-degree program—jointly designed by the School of Education and Social Policy at Northwestern University and the Department of Economics at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)—opens the door to the study of applied economics and its application to real-world policies in both Chinese and US contexts.

  • Study on campuses in Sha Tin, Hong Kong for 10 months and Evanston, Illinois for 7 months,
  • Students receive rigorous training in applied economic science and develop analytical skills to evaluate and design policies and programs in diverse global contexts.
  • Students receive two master's of science degrees from two top-tier global universities
  • This program has been designated as a STEM program, which qualifies international students for the F-1 STEM OPT extension. In order to qualify for the OPT extension, students must complete the optional Winter Quarter.

Leading Edge Program

Gain a competitive edge in today’s interconnected marketplace by participating in the first program to address economic and policy issues through a transpacific lens.

Life-Changing Student Experience

Think across academic and geographic boundaries, experience rich opportunities for growth, and come away with a deeper global perspective.

Mastery in Multiple Disciplines

Enrich your understanding with insights from multiple disciplines while earning an applied economics degree and a social and economic policy degree in the same length of time, and similar cost, as one master's.

Global Network

Engage in diverse cultures and ideas with an international community of colleagues. Connect with a robust network of campuses and alumni around the world.

Outstanding Career Advancement Services

Take advantage of resources including advising, job and internship search assistance, career assessments, access to employment databases, career fairs, and recruiting events on two top-tier campuses.

World Renowned Faculty

Our world-renowned faculty consists of top researchers, experienced professionals, and leaders in their fields. Our diverse faculty is globally recognized for their expertise and experience. With their guidance you will develop the skills and knowledge to succeed in your chosen field.

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2022-23 Best National Universities, Northwestern University, US News and World Report
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2023-24 Best Education Schools, SESP, US News and World Report
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2021 QS World University Rankings by Subject, CUHK in Asia for Economics and Econometrics

Career Paths

The dual nature of the programs provides students with a wide range of skills, enabling them to work in many fields and industries, including:
  • Economic analysts in public and private sectors
  • Researchers in academia
  • Policymakers in civil service and nonprofit organizations
  • Business and industry leaders

Our Students

The Northwestern-CUHK dual-degree program is expected to attract highly qualified students motivated to become leaders in their professions: as policy makers in civil service and nonprofit organizations and as economic analysts and thought leaders in public and private industry and academia. The program is distinctive for its academic concentrations and rigor, the prestige of its institutions and faculty, its affordability, and its incomparable student experience. Read why some of our current scholars chose our unique program.

Siyu Chen

The combination of courses from two different perspectives allows me to focus on how economics can solve social problems.”

— Siyu Chen
University of Minnesota
Profile picture of Suyash Mohan

Most economics degrees expose you to theory or application. This joint program exposed me to both of these pillars of economics while getting to study at two top universities.”

-Suyash Mohan
The Honk Kong University of Science and Technology

Contact Social and Economic Policy

Phone Number 

847-491-8193

Email 

sespdmdp@northwestern.edu

Physical Address 

Walter Annenberg Hall
2120 Campus Drive
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL 60208