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Graduate Programs in Economic Theory and Policy

The Levy Economics Institute Graduate Programs in Economic Theory and Policy were created to offer students an alternative to mainstream programs in economics and finance. These innovative programs combine a rigorous course of study with the exceptional opportunity to participate in advanced economics research.
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Let's Talk!

  • Join Us for an Open House or Info Session
    Our next special info session and application workshop is Monday, January 13th at 11AM EST (UTC-5)
    With Thomas Masterson, Director of the Levy MS and MA in Economic Theory and Policy, and Tyler Emerson, Recruitment and Outreach Liaison. 
    This special information session and application workshop provides an overview of the Levy academic programs, student life, admission requirements, enrollment steps, financial aid procedures, and immigration requirements for international students. Applicants who attend a virtual information session will have their application fees waived.

    Register at this link

    Contact us for more information at 845-758-7776 or [email protected]. 

Our Approach

  • Key Research Areas
    The course of study encourages students to specialize in one of the research areas of the Levy Institute: Macroeconomic Theory, Policy, and Modeling; Employment and Labor Markets; Monetary Policy and Financial Structure; Distribution of Income, Wealth, and Well-Being; and Gender Equality and the Economy.
  • Photo by Karl Rabe
    Engaged Learning
    Small-group interaction in lectures and seminars encourages students to expand their understanding of economic theory and their influence in the global community. Students participate in every discussion and develop close working relationships with faculty in an environment of active learning. Resident scholars teaching in the graduate programs are extremely accessible, and consider themselves mentors as well as teachers.
  • Real-World Economics
    The world economy has not yet emerged from the 2008 financial crisis. Below-target growth and tax revenue threaten critical public expenditure on healthcare, education, social protection, and climate change adaptation … yet mainstream economics programs continue to use the same approach. The Levy Graduate Programs in Economic Theory and Policy offer real answers to real-world problems.

Download the Brochure (PDF)
Alum Spotlight: Andrew Bunker MA ’19
Andrew Bunker MA ’19 (L). Photo by Karl Rabe

Alum Spotlight: Andrew Bunker MA ’19

IMF Surveillance and Climate Change Transition Risks

Students and alumni/ae of the Levy Graduate Programs in Economic Theory and Policy conduct impactful research on the most critical issues in economics today. Andrew Bunker MA ’19 recently contributed to a report on the IMF's track record on energy policy.

Full Report from ActionAid USA

Announcing the Minsky and Godley Scholarships

Announcing the Minsky and Godley Scholarships

The Levy Graduate Programs are pleased to announce new academic scholarships. The Minsky and Godley Scholarships, named for Distinguished Scholars Hyman P. Minsky and Wynne Godley, extend the Institute’s investment in students displaying significant academic achievement. 

More on Financial Aid

Dates and Deadlines
Early Decision | January 15th
Regular Decision | April 15th

Do you have an admission or enrollment question?

Email us to schedule an online chat!

Browse our Brochure
Analysis of the Global Pandemic

Analysis of the Global Pandemic

Scholars of the Levy Economics Institute of Bard College are sharing their in-depth analysis and nonpartisan policy recommendations on the economic fallout of the COVID-19 crisis with the world through international news media outlets and institute's blog, Multiplier Effect.

Global Pandemic Analysis