By researching important societal problems and gathering and analyzing data, we offer policy solutions that move the needle on today?s most pressing issues. Our undergraduate and graduate programs focus on industrial organization, environmental economics, natural resource economics, and consumer and family economics. And our award-winning faculty produces groundbreaking research that impacts how we approach our world.?

As resource economists, we?re interested in developing creative solutions to complex problems. What incentives work best to inspire consumers and firms to use solar energy in their homes and businesses? How can a community build a new low-income housing development?and?protect its endangered meadows? Can taxes on high-calorie food products help curb US obesity? How do we minimize foodborne risks in an industrialized food system?

We help influence the choices that people make that affect their environment, their food supply, and their access to natural resources. Our rigorous undergraduate and graduate programs prepare students to be thought leaders and researchers who offer policy solutions about these vital allocation decisions. Our department is housed in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, one of the most innovative and supportive schools on UMass? flagship campus.