The Master of Energy Economics (MEECON) develops and educates future leaders and strategic thinkers in the energy sector. Our program trains participants to provide insightful analysis and to inform such things as capital asset decisions, firm strategic direction and future market orientation by combining the disciplined study of market and economic principles with a deep understanding of the functioning and inter-connections of the energy industry. At the core of any discussion of these matters is the manner in which energy markets function. The inexorable link between economic activity and energy demand implies that understanding the sources of growth is critical to determining the market pull for energy resources. The economic factors that determine supply and deliverability then determine how the demand for energy services will be met. More specifically, the economics of energy supply and deliverability affect how energy resources are allocated through both space and time.
We are particularly proud to offer the program here in Houston, the widely recognized energy capital of the world, and at Rice which already has an existing reputation in energy studies built upon the programs in the Economics Department and the Baker Institute’s Center for Energy Studies (CES). Along with our partners, the commitment of Rice to training future leaders in academia, business, and government and the proven excellence of the Center for Energy Studies in creating cutting edge analysis of the energy industry that provides a solid foundation for the program. We also bring in reputable scholars from around the country to teach program electives and impart a deeper understanding of specialized fields as well as give participants an opportunity to network and field questions directly to the experts.
We designed our program to prepare participants for enhanced professional engagement in the energy industry. The program consists of 40 credit hours in 12 months, organized in four sessions. Sessions I and II correspond to the Fall and Spring semester, respectively, and follow the standard Rice academic calendar. Sessions III and IV are two, consecutive 7-week-long sessions that take place during the summer (for more see here). All courses are graduate-level and an internship or practicum during the last session provides participants with practical experience relevant to their degree. In addition, the internship or practicum provides prospective employers with an opportunity to effectively evaluate new talent. More specifically, participants will:
- learn to analyze energy markets and the micro and macro impacts of various stimuli;
- develop quantitative skills to better utilize data to inform strategic decisions;
- obtain insights into commercially-oriented analysis through internships;
- gain a better understanding of the factors that contribute to dynamic and perpetually changing energy markets.
These skills allow students to more meaningfully contribute to discussion about energy policy which centers on the rationale for, and means of, creating economic conditions that favor investments in particular sources of energy supply.
We hope that you join us to advance your career or as a partner so we can train your employees to become energy leaders with the Rice Master of Energy Economics.
Regards,
Dr. Kenneth Medlock III, Co-Director of MEECON Program
Dr. Peter Hartley, Co-Director of the MEECON Program