Undergraduate Economics Degrees

The Department of Economics offers two baccalaureate degrees. The bachelor of arts program provides a strong intuitive understanding of economic incentives and how society shapes those incentives. The bachelor of science program emphasizes statistical and quantitative methods used to model and evaluate human action, especially as carried out by governments or businesses.

Both degree programs prepare you for careers in business, government, foreign services, law school or graduate studies in business administration or public policy. The B.S. degree offers stronger preparation for graduate study in economics including an accelerated program to earn you M.A. in Economics in just one year after you completed your undergraduate degree. You can also add an emphasis in financial economics to the B.S. degree.

All majors must complete a capstone research paper in any 400-level economics course or as part of ECON 492. In this paper, you demonstrate your ability to analyze an economic issue and communicate your findings effectively in writing. The research paper is evaluated and jointly approved by the course instructor and the director of undergraduate studies.

Minor in Economics

Students in other disciplines can pursue our flexible economics minor. This option can be both intellectually rewarding and enhance employment prospects, especially for those majoring in business, other social science, mathematics, engineering, computer science, journalism or related fields. The department also participates in interdisciplinary minors including Black Studies, Environmental Studies, International Relations, Latino and Latin American Studies, Public Administration and Urban Studies.

Other Degree Options

We offer both teaching licensure and honors degree options for majors:

• Professional Educator Licensure – Economics
• Economics Honors Program

Distinguished Faculty

Because we offer strong graduate programs at the master's and doctoral levels, our faculty comprises experts in government and business, public finance, labor economics, international trade and finance, econometrics, monetary policy and economic development. They devote most of their teaching time to undergraduate classes, giving you direct access to distinguished scholars for a more personalized learning experience.

Careers in Economics

Economics majors develop analytical skills that are in high demand across a wide array of fields, including administration, marketing research, financial services, sales, management, insurance, real estate and public and social services.

For more information, see our employment outlook.

Beyond the Classroom

Students are encouraged to get involved in our Economic Student Association.