Business Economics (MABE)

Completion of our Master of Arts in Business Economics (MABE) program will put you on track for a career as a professional economist in the private or public sector. Our strength is the combination of business economics with training in economic theory, quantitative methods and applied research. 

The structure of our program ensures flexibility in your education, allowing you to cater your education to your career aspirations by taking economics courses, MBA electives or courses from Laurier’s Master in International Public Policy at the Balsillie School of International Affairs.

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Small class sizes: average of 25 in the last ten years.

More than 80% of students received financial support in the last five years.

Let’s Talk About Your Career

Thinking about your next move? Whether you want to grow in your current career or head in a new direction, we're here to help you figure out what comes next.

We offer virtual information sessions and one-on-one pre-application consultations to help you find the program that fits your goals. The sooner we connect, the closer you'll be to discovering how what's inside sets us apart and sets you up for success.

Join our mailing list to get helpful updates, resources and support throughout your application journey. Domestic applicants will be able to request a one-on-one pre-application consultation right after signing up. International applicants will first be invited to a virtual information session before scheduling a consultation.

Connect with Us

Have a quick question? Contact us at lazaridisgradprogams@wlu.ca.

Program Details

Program Structure

The MABE program is full-time and completed in 12 months, or 16 to 20 months if you choose the co-op option. The program structure offers flexibility to help you align your studies with your goals.

You'll complete nine courses, including:

  • Four core courses focused on economic theory, applied analysis, and quantitative methods
  • Three electives tailored to your interests and career goals
  • Master Research Paper and Seminar (together equivalent to 2 courses)

In your final term, you'll put your learning into action by completing a major research paper, often inspired by your courses or co-op experience.

Term 1

  • EC620: Microeconomics
  • EC640: Macroeconomics
  • EC655: Econometrics

Term 2

  • EC665: Forecasting, Time Series Analysis, and Survey Design
  • Two Electives: choose from Economics, MBA, Master of Finance, Master of Science in Management Analytics, or Master of International Public Policy

Co-op Work Term: Four-month or eight-month work term. Co-op students return to campus for a final academic term.

Term 3

  • EC681: Master Research Paper and Seminar
  • One Elective: choose from Economics, MBA, Master of Finance, Master of Science in Management Analytics, or Master of International Public Policy

Research

Faculty Research Interests

Our faculty are engaged in a wide range of research, including international and development economics, econometrics, financial economics, health economics, industrial organizations economics, labour economics and law and political economy.

Institutional Research Centres

Laurier’s Department of Economics is associated with several research centres, including the Laurier Centre for Economic Research and Policy Analysis, the Centre of International Governance Innovation and the Viessmann European Research Centre.

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"The Lazaridis MABE program offers a valuable opportunity for those looking to deepen their expertise in economics, enhance their research skills, and develop the critical competencies needed to thrive in today's dynamic business landscape."

Christos Shiamptanis, director, MABE Program

Admissions

Ready to take the next step?

Just follow our three-step admission process. We'll walk you through how to apply and get set for your first day as a grad student.

  • Start: Fall (September)
  • Format: Full-time
  • Application deadlines: 
    • Application Portal Opens: October each year
    • Domestic
      • Early Consideration: January 15
      • Application Deadline: July 15
    • International
      • Early Consideration: December 1
      • Application Deadline: March 30

Applications received after the early application deadline are accepted and reviewed until capacity is reached or the final deadline passes.

Photo of Theresa Okosun, MABE graduate 2019

"The hands-on approach to business economics gave me the ability to analyze complex datasets, draw meaningful conclusions, and present those findings to stakeholders – skills I rely on daily in my professional career."

Waterloo Campus

This program is available on Laurier's Waterloo campus.

Laurier Waterloo is where tradition, innovation and incredible school spirit collide.

The Waterloo campus spans one large city block, ensuring you’re close to your classes, favourite study spots, student services and favourite coffee shops. Laurier is a leading force in research among Canadian universities, and many of our research centres and institutes are housed in Waterloo.

We offer the guidance and support you need to thrive academically and personally throughout your degree.

Discover Laurier Waterloo for yourself: 

Tuition and Funding

Tuition

Regardless of the type of graduate degree program you intend to pursue, financial planning is important. At Laurier, we want to provide you with as much information as possible about a variety of scholarship and funding opportunities and equip you with the skills to manage your finances effectively in the years to come.

2025/2026 Tuition Fees*

Per Term

Total

MA in Business Economics (Domestic)

$2,622.92

$7,868.76

MA in Business Economics (International)

$7,487

$22,461

Tuition Fees  Incidental Fees  Co-op Fees

*Tuition fees are reviewed each spring and are subject to change. Wilfrid Laurier University may revise tuition and program details without notice.

Funding and Research Scholarships

Domestic students receive guaranteed financial support ranging from $12,500 to $25,000, while international students are eligible for funding between $3,000 and $20,000. Support is made up of graduate teaching assistantships as well as internal and/or external scholarships. Some research assistantship support may also be available.

Looking for more ways to help fund your studies? Here’s how you can access funding and research scholarship opportunities at Laurier:

Please note: Students in the MA in Business Economics program are eligible for funding through the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP).

Photo of Theresa Okosun, MABE graduate 2019

"MABE is an excellent choice if you are interested in economics and seeking a more in-depth understanding. Completing this program helped me think more strategically and make decisions to maximize the outcome. The 8-month coop term also enriched my career portfolio, allowing me to land a job immediately after graduation."

Yalian Xu (MABE '22),
Economist, RBC

Get Career Ready

Laurier Career Centre

Whether you're continuing your academic journey or transitioning from the workforce, Laurier Career Centre is here to help you thrive. We provide guidance to explore career paths both within academia and beyond. From crafting standout resumes, CVs, and cover letters to mastering effective job search strategies, we offer resources tailored to your needs.

As a graduate student, your schedule is full but investing in career development during your studies can set you up for long-term success. Let us help you build the skills and confidence you need to transition seamlessly into your professional career.

Features

The MABE program gives you the tools, experience and connections to launch a career in today's data-driven economy. Along the way, you'll sharpen your research and analytical skills, preparing you to interpret complex data, assess policy, and generate real-world insights.

You'll graduate with the in-demand skills to succeed in roles such as economic policy analyst, economic forecaster, market and industry researcher, financial analyst in markets and institutions, strategic planner, and public policy advisor.

Contact Us

We're Here to Help

Recruitment Inquiries

Connect with our Graduate Program Recruiters:
Brenda Burns and Victoria MacKenzie
lazaridisgradprograms@wlu.ca

Admissions Inquiries

For applications in progress and enrolled students only:
lazaridisgradoffice@wlu.ca

Academic Director, MA in Business Economics Program

Christos Shiamptanis, PhD
Associate Professor

Faculty

Learn about the interests of our faculty members. If you are looking for more information, have questions, or want to set up a meeting faculty, contact a member of our team.

One-on-One Pre-Application Consultation

Thinking about applying? Domestic applicants can book an on-demand one-on-one pre-application consultation with us anytime.

International applicants need to attend a virtual information session before scheduling a one-on-one consultation.

All applicants will get helpful updates, resources and support to guide them through the process.