The Mercatus MA Fellowship

This post is specifically intended for students interested in pursuing a MA in economics at George Mason University and interested in a career in public policy.

About the Fellowship

The Mercatus MA Fellowship is a two-year, competitive, full-time fellowship program targeted toward students with an interest in gaining advanced training in economics, but who do not anticipate a career in academia. Students who anticipate working in public policy jobs in research, communications or outreach are ideal candidates for this fellowship.

Fellowship Eligibility

Acceptance into the fellowship program is dependent on acceptance into George Mason University’s MA program in economics. You must complete the standard application for fall admission to the MA program in Economics at George Mason University, and indicate on the application that you would like to be considered for funding.

Program Benefits

MA Fellows have the opportunity to work as research assistants and coauthors with Mercatus scholars on pertinent policy areas such as regulations, federal fiscal policy, financial markets, monetary policy, technology policy, state and local policy, trade and immigration, healthcare and the study of American capitalism. Fellows will work with established scholars that have the academic credentials as well as professional experience that makes them leading experts on public policy issues. By working alongside scholars, fellows will learn how to research complex policy issues and communicate sound economic analysis through academic articles, policy publications, congressional testimony, opinion pieces, and blog posts. MA Fellows will also have the opportunity to work with Mercatus scholars and staff to learn how to promote, disseminate, and translate economic analysis through written products, video production, media, and podcasts. Fellows have gone on to become policy analysts and researchers at federal and state agencies, in Congressional staff positions, at think tanks, and academic research centers.

The total award of up to $80,000 (over two years) includes a monthly stipend, full tuition support (nine credits per semester), and practical experience conducting and disseminating research with Mercatus scholars and staff on pertinent policy issues.

Applications for the 2022-2023 academic year are due Feb. 15, 2022. Apply here!