Economics at NIU
Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts
Explore principles that shape the global economy and our daily lives.
From rising costs at the grocery store to the differences in wealth between countries, the exploration of economics reveals important insights into our world. As an economics major, you’ll learn how forces such as supply and demand shape — and are shaped by — our society. You’ll gain the ability to inform and guide life-altering decisions involving limited resources in areas like business and government.
I chose economics because I was fascinated by supply and demand and how our economy prices everything. I’ve felt welcomed and embraced by the faculty here at NIU, and I feel like it’s an experience you wouldn’t be able to have at a lot of larger universities.
What Can I Do With an Economics Degree From NIU?
The skills you gain in data analysis, communication and decision-making will prepare you to thrive in a variety of fields, including business, insurance, government and financial services. Your degree is also excellent preparation for law school or graduate study in public policy or business administration.
Other Programs to Consider
Career Potential for NIU Economics Majors
Average mid-career salary:
$101,802
Desired skills:
- Leadership
- Strategic Planning
- Business Development
- Project Management
- Negotiation
Top industries:
- Finance
- Information Technology
- Insurance
- Manufacturing
- Transportation and Logistics
Source: SteppingBlocks, 2023
What to Expect as an Economics Major at NIU
You can get a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. The B.S. focuses more on quantitative methods and is better preparation for graduate study in economics. Both degrees will give you a strong grasp of economic principles, and you’ll have access to internships and other involvement opportunities.
Related Websites
How We’ll Help You Succeed
Apply for free and we’ll automatically consider you for a renewable merit scholarship.
Earn your bachelor’s degree fast with our affordable tuition and fees. Any credit hours you take over 12 are free (per semester).
Prepare to thrive after graduation with personalized support from Career Services.
With our truth-in-tuition policy, you’ll get the same fixed tuition rate for four continuous years, whether you live in Illinois or another state.
Apply to NIU
First-year Students
(Freshman)
High School GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ACT/SAT SCORES
Not considered.
We think your high school GPA is a better predictor of your success.
Transfer Students
ALL COLLEGES GPA
2.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ALL COLLEGES GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed a
renewable merit scholarship.