About the Department of Economics

At NIU, our undergraduate and graduate economics courses are led by a distinguished faculty with expertise in labor, public and financial economics and econometrics. As a Huskie, you’ll explore topics that shape the world around us—government and business, public and labor economics, international trade and finance, economic development, environmental economics and more.

Undergraduate students benefit from exceptional access to our faculty—something that sets NIU apart from many peer institutions. You won’t just sit in a lecture hall; you’ll engage, ask questions and build knowledge that prepares you for wherever your career takes you.

Our graduate programs give you the opportunity to specialize in key areas such as labor, public and financial economics or econometrics. Students focusing on econometrics can earn an M.S. in statistics alongside their Ph.D. in economics, setting them apart in the job market. Graduate Huskies work directly with faculty on research, serve as teaching assistants and sometimes lead their own courses.

Our graduates go on to make an impact in academia, government and industry across the globe. Both our M.A. and Ph.D. programs are recognized as STEM-designated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security—opening important pathways and extended training opportunities for international students.

We're also proud to be part of interdisciplinary research and education through our membership in the School of Public and Global Affairs and through faculty collaboration with initiatives like the Institute for the Study of the Environment, Sustainability and Energy.