Mercatus Center at George Mason University - MA Fellowship

The Mercatus Center’s MA Fellowship program is 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.

MA Fellows can pursue skills that prepare them for a career in public policy, including policy research, strategic communications, outreach, and project management. All fellows are required to take courses toward an MA in economics from George Mason University, and are encouraged to take electives in courses that further their expertise in conducting and communicating economic analysis of public policy issues. In addition, fellows attend readings groups and career development workshops and spend at least 20 hours a week working with Mercatus scholars and staff. (see full requirements).

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.

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.

To apply to the MA Fellowship, please click the “Apply Now” button and complete the online application. The online application includes:

• A 1-2 page cover letter explaining:
  • your research and research interests,
  • your familiarity with Mason and Mercatus scholars and their research, and
  • what you hope to get out of the program.
• A current resume/CV
• A 500-1000 word essay on “Why do some societies prosper, while others remain stagnant and poor?”
• A 10-page writing sample that demonstrates your writing and research skills
• A few short answer questions