1. What makes the Hunter and ASE Masters in Economics different?
The Hunter and African School Program to Expand Representation in Economics (HASPERE) is not your standard pre-doctoral program. It is a master’s degree with a cohort environment and opportunities for mentorship and research. Faculty participation is broad, with scholars coming from top institutions around the country. Moreover, this program is flexible enough to offer an intensive two-year option and to accommodate those who prefer a year-long terminal master’s degree.
2. How do I apply?
Please visit the Hunter College Graduate Admissions page to learn about the Hunter College admissions process and to submit your application. Applicants should mention in their statement of purpose that they are interested in the Hunter and African School Program. Applicants should also apply to African School of Economics by sending the same materials to African School of Economics through an email to haspere@africanschoolofeconomics.com.
3. What is the deadline to apply?
Applications are being accepted now, with a deadline of April 1, 2022 for both domestic and international students. Admissions decisions will be made on a rolling basis.
4. When would I begin my studies?
Students submit their applications in the Spring and begin their studies in the following Fall semester. Immediately prior to the start of school, incoming students will complete a two-week Math Camp.
5. Do I need to be Black or a member of a U.S. minority group to apply?
While the program is targeted toward underrepresented minorities and toward Black students in particular, students of all demographic backgrounds and nationalities may enroll in the Hunter and African School program.
6. How long is the program?
This program builds on Hunter College’s one-year M.A. in Economics. The Hunter and African School of Economics degree program features an enriched curriculum in the first year, with additional courses, camps and workshops. Though students on Hunter’s regular track may earn a master’s in one year, those who remain in the HASPERE program will complete a second year of study. In the second year, students will write a thesis, may study abroad at one of African School of Economics’ campuses in Africa, and will receive mentoring and coaching on the Ph.D. application process.
7. Where will I complete my studies?
The majority of the Hunter and African School program will take place on the Hunter College campus in New York City. Students will be eligible for exchanges to African School of Economics’ campuses in Benin or Côte d’Ivoire. These exchanges could take place during the academic year or the summer between the first and second years of study.
8. What is the tuition structure?
For New York State residents, first year costs $15,000 and second year costs $7,500. For out-of-state residents, the first year costs $22,875 and second year costs $8,625. (These numbers are approximate and updated annually.)
9. What sorts of financial aid is available?
In addition to the standard Graduate School Financial Aid offerings at Hunter College, there will be a limited number stipends offered specifically for African Americans and possibly for other qualifying individuals.
10. Which institution will grant my degree?
Graduates of the Hunter and African School Program will receive a Master in Economics degree from Hunter College, and a Master in Economics from African School of Economics.
11. Why is HASPERE important?
Currently, only 3% of the Economics faculty in top public universities is Black. HASPERE aims to change this by building a robust pipeline for the next generation of diverse academic leaders. HASPERE also allows flexibility for enrolled students, allowing students to opt instead into a one-year terminal masters.