Comprehensive Exams
To graduate from the MS or MA program in Economics at UB, you’ll need to pass both parts of the Comprehensive Exam, Microeconomics and Macroeconomics. These exams test your understanding of core economic concepts and how to apply them using real data
Essential Exam Information:
- Microeconomics: Supply and demand, optimization, consumer/producer behavior, competitive and monopolistic markets, welfare analysis.
- Macroeconomics: Market equilibria (goods, labor, financial), fiscal/monetary policy, business cycles, taxation, growth.
- Econometrics: Applied across both sections for data analysis and forecasting.
- Offered: Twice per year during finals week (Fall & Spring).
- Notification: Students are emailed sign-up instructions ~1 month prior.
- Location: All exams take place on UB’s campus (no remote option).
✅ Bring:
- UB ID Card (required for entry)
- Pens/pencils (writing supplies not provided)
🚫 Not Allowed:
- Jackets or schoolbags at desks (must be placed at the front of the room)
- Calculators
- Dictionaries
- Electronic devices (phones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches)
Accessibility
Students with registered disabilities should contact the Assistant Director for accommodations.
- No sample exams are distributed to encourage comprehensive preparation.
- Review your coursework in ECO 505, 507, 580, and any related electives.
- Faculty-designed and double-blind graded by a designated committee.
- Results sent by email ~2 weeks after the exam.
- A fail on the third attempt may result in dismissal (case reviewed by the committee).
If you fail:
- You must retake the failed section at the next available offering.
- If all coursework is complete, you must still register for at least one graduate credit (e.g., ECO 598) in the semester you intend to graduate.
Graduation Month
June
September
February
Must Register in...
Previous Spring
Spring or Summer
Previous Fall