If you're interested in a degree that uses statistics and critical thinking to tackle real-world problems, the diverse field of economics might be a good choice. An economists' job description and requirements can differ depending on which industry they're working in, but they all focus on analyzing ways to solve problems in society, from the opioid crisis to unemployment. No matter which field you'll enter, a degree is the first step to launching your economics career.
As an economics student, you'll take courses in macroeconomics, microeconomics, mathematical modeling, and statistics. You'll also learn about economic institutions such as banks and markets, and computer tools used by economists such as statistical programs. Specializations within economics include:
- Health economics
- Environmental economics
- Econometrics
- Trade economics
- Accounting
- Management
- Finance
- Public finance
- Environmental economics
- Economics of the labor market.
- Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics
- Econometrics
- Statistics
- Data analysis
- Econometrics
- International economics
- Industrial organization
- Innovation and development
- Financial economics
- History of economic thought
- Economic theory
- Quantitative methods,
- International economics
- Finance clerk
- Real estate agent
- Sales representative
- Policy analyst
- Research analyst
- Financial analyst
- Insurance underwriter
- Foreign service officer
- Investment banker
- Economics consultant
- Economics professor
- Economic researcher
- Economist
2021 Best Degrees in Economics
After careful consideration and review of this year’s data, Study.com is proud to reveal a list of the top 50 economics schools in the United States. This list has been created through publicly-available information that is provided by colleges and universities themselves, and through an assembly of data from the Department of Education. The rankings consider the quality of education provided, in addition to accessibility and affordability. The schools below give their students an excellent education and degree in economics, with many providing students a leg-up in their professional careers and hands-on experience like economic research.
1. University of California - Santa Barbara
Found in Santa Barbara, California, the University of California-Santa Barbara has an esteemed economics tradition, and their Department of Economics offers the undergraduate degrees of Bachelor of Art in Economics and Bachelor of Art in Economics and Accounting, and a PhD in Economics. For undergraduate students, the University of California-Santa Barbara has an honor’s track in economics, which is a great pathway for those who are looking to continue with their studies in graduate school. Additionally, the Department of Economics encourages students to pursue esteemed research opportunities and provides excellent opportunities to do so, in addition to with the amazing Career Connection Initiative: a resource to aid undergraduate students in finding a job or internship so they can be well prepared for their futures.
2. CUNY Queens College
Located in Flushing, New York, CUNY Queens College is a public university with a highly-valued economics department. Undergraduates at CUNY Queens College can earn a versatile Bachelor of Arts in Economics or they can choose to hone their math skills and earn a Bachelor of Science in Quantitative Economics. In either approach, students have the chance to participate in the Economics and Business Club, and from there, they can then qualify for the Omicron Epsilon Delta Honors society by posting above a 3.3 GPA in six economics courses, allowing anyone to boost their resume and be among like-minded peers. Doing so can put a student on the fast-track to a good career, and that goal is also aided by the Career Education center at CUNY Queens College, which seeks to ensure students have the tools and information to both know what they want to do and achieve it.
3. SUNY at Albany
The Department of Economics at SUNY at Albany is providing a first-rate education in economics, for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students. This school proudly offers both BS and BA degrees in economics and even the chance for undergraduates to complete a dual BS and MA degree in economics, allowing hard-working students to get more value for their money and time. All economics students at SUNY at Albany have the opportunity to participate in research with respected faculty who are funded by such esteemed agencies as the National Science Foundation, the National Institute of Health, and the U.S. Department of Transportation. These links allow students access to scholars who have been peer-reviewed and recognized by the National Bureau of Economic Research, among other awards.
4. University of Wisconsin - Madison
The University of Wisconsin in Madison offers both undergraduate and graduate students alike opportunities to study economics. Undergraduate students can study for a Bachelor of Arts in Economics or a Bachelor of Science in Economics with a Mathematical Emphasis, while graduate students can complete an MS in Economics, an MS in Financial Economics, or a doctoral program. The Department of Economics is one of the largest departments at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, which means that plenty of resources are available to students, like the Economics Career Development Office, a career development service offered solely to students pursuing degrees in economics, giving them the opportunity to secure coveted internships and develop beneficial relationships with employers and alumni.
5. University of Oregon
Found in Eugene, Oregon, the University of Oregon offers aspiring students the chance to take the next step in their lives by offering an abundance of degrees: BA and BS in Economics options, MA and MS in Economics options, and even a doctoral program. Students in the Department of Economics are encouraged to choose from one of seven professional concentrations like banking and finance, economics and public policy and administration, or even international and development economics; any of which will give them specialized knowledge that will enhance their chances of finding a stellar internship or job. Achieving their goals becomes easier for students through assistance from the University of Oregon’s Career and Advising Services office that provides resume-building assistance and help in keeping on track academically.
6. University of Virginia
Found in Charlottesville, Virginia, the University of Virginia-Main Campus has plenty of programs and services available for students interested in the field of economics through a BA in Economics and a PhD program. Students in the economics programs are supported by the incredibly helpful Economics Career Office, which provides career and academic guidance to equip students with the right tools to achieve their goals. The pursuit of concentrations within the economics major, such as financial economics, industrial organizations, international economics, or public policy can help students cater their education toward their specific career desires.
7. Utah State University
In Logan, Utah, Utah State University provides aspiring students with the opportunity to complete a BA or BS in Economics, or, for graduate students, an impressive array of programs including a Master of Data Analytics degree, a Master of Economics, and a Master of Financial Economics. The Economics and Finance Department at Utah State University takes pride in placing students in prestigious opportunities, and any undergraduate or graduate student could follow the path of alumni who have gone on to work at industry leaders like Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, or graduate programs around the country. Undergraduate students can be prepared for such opportunities by taking part in the incredible Economics and Finance Club and Real Estate Association club that are offered, giving them the chance to gain skills and fill their resume.
8. University of Massachusetts - Amherst
The University of Massachusetts in Amherst provides a Bachelor of Arts in Economics degree for undergraduates, and a PhD in Economics program for doctoral candidates. Beyond their studies, any undergraduate at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst can be part of the Undergraduate Economics Club, the Economics Undergraduate Research Assistantship, and the Massachusetts Undergraduate Journal of Economics. Doing so will not only make students more appealing to employers, but also further their education and knowledge of the field which will become their career. To further bolster their chances of securing their career goals, the University of Massachusetts-Amherst has a devoted Internship Coordinator for economics majors that will help any student in finding the right opportunity for them.
9. University of California - Davis
The Department of Economics at University of California in Davis boasts a major in economics for undergraduates, and its students can choose to pursue one of an incredible six specializations including behavior and strategy, policy, poverty and inequality, and economic history. All economics undergraduates are encouraged to research with faculty and are even given the opportunity to obtain academic credit for internship placements. If at any point students need any extra assistance in their economics studies, they can take advantage of the free tutoring available through the school. Additionally, students can opt to pursue the rigorous PhD in Economics program that enables them to conduct cutting edge-research and teach.
10. University of California - Los Angeles
The University of California in Los Angeles gives undergraduates the opportunity to pursue a BA in Business Economics degree, a BA in Economics degree, and a BS in Mathematics/Economics, while graduate students can earn either work toward an MA in Applied Economics or a PhD in Economics. All undergraduate students at this school are provided with an abundance of opportunities to help them meet their career goals including a full-time Career Center that provides support in finding a job or the right pathway while as a student or after graduation and an Undergraduate Research Fellows Program that gives its students hands-on experience while earning a stipend. All of these options are incredible, and they cast a wide net, ensuring any interest or passion of an undergraduate student can be pursued.
11. University of California - Berkeley
The University of California in Berkeley has a prestigious Department of Economics that is respected around the country and world. Undergraduates can earn a Bachelor of Arts in Economics after meeting a GPA threshold in prerequisite classes, and aspiring doctoral candidates can study to complete a PhD in Economics. Undergraduate students can join the highly-regarded peer-reviewed Berkeley Economic Review, the Omicron Epsilon Delta honor society, and the Undergraduate Economic Association, which promotes economics at the university. For students coming from minority backgrounds, there is a great potential for success at the University of California-Berkeley, with dedicated student organizations such as Underrepresented Minorities in Economics, and Undergraduate Women in Economics at Berkeley, always there to support and guide a student as they take the first steps in achieving their academic and professional goals.
12. University of California - San Diego
The University of California in San Diego’s Economics Department offers an impressive array of options. There is a wide variety of pathways for any interest a student may have; in fact undergraduates can earn any of four degrees: a BA in Economics, a BS in Management Science, a BS in Mathematics-Economics, and a BA of Economics in Public Policy, while graduate students find a terrific PhD program in Economics available. The Economics Department has already assembled a detailed year-by-year plan for undergraduates that takes the ambiguity out of any decisions a student may have to make about classes, internships, or research, allowing anyone to be successful as long as they work hard in their studies. Students can also be sure to take advantage of the many resources at the University of California-San Diego’s Career Services Center, which is always there for students to help with resumes, interview preparation, or skills that are essential for success in the job market.
13. University of California - Santa Cruz
The University of California-Santa Cruz provides undergraduates with a significant number of pathways to degrees related to economics, such as a BA in Economics, a BA in Business Management Economics, a BA in Global Economics, and combined degrees like a BA in Economics/Mathematics and a BA in Environmental Studies/Economics. Graduate students also have plenty of options, with an MA in Economics and an MS in Applied Economics and Finance, and a PhD in Economics. A unique opportunity for undergraduates here is found in the Field Study Program that allows students to work in the local community or elsewhere and earn class credit, giving them vital hands-on experience that appeals to employers and the chance to develop relationships that could lead to their coveted first job.
14. University of Connecticut
In Mansfield, Connecticut, one can find the Department of Economics at the University of Connecticut, which offers undergraduates the chance to earn either a BA or BS in Economics, and graduate students the option of pursuing a Master of Science in Quantitative Economics or a PhD in Economics. Undergraduate students at the University of Connecticut will be well-prepared for the future with the help of free tutoring by graduate or doctoral students and dedicated academic advisors that ensure they are on the right track.
15. Pennsylvania State University
Located in State College, Pennsylvania, the Department of Economics at Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus has several degree offerings that will give any student a bright future, including a BA or BS in Economics, a two-year MA in Economics, and a PhD in Economics. There are particularly great opportunities for undergraduate students with a passion for economics that wish to have a career in academia, such as the Career in Academic Research in Economics mentorship program that allows undergraduates to be guided along in the process of fulfilling the right academic and career skills to eventually gain entry into a PhD program. Additionally, exceptional students on this path can join the Department of Economics’ honors program to participate in research with faculty and build relationships with PhD candidates. Both of these programs invest in students, ensuring they have a more fulfilling and successful future.
16. University of Delaware
Found in Newark, Delaware, the University of Delaware boasts an exceptional Department of Economics with a multitude of degree offerings and student opportunities and support programs. Particularly, the University of Delaware offers degrees at each level for those seeking to teach economics, with a BA in Economics Education, an MA in Economics and Entrepreneurship for Educators, and a PhD in Economics Education all being at hand to help educators (and future educators) take their classroom to the next level. Additionally, undergraduates can earn a BA or BS in Economics, a BS in Mathematics/Economics, or an accelerated BS/MS in Economics that will give any student the skills needed to find their first employer or PhD program, while graduate students can partake in a MS in Economics and Applied Econometrics or a PhD in Economics. Any level of student or alumni has access to the Career Services Center at the University of Delaware, which gives students career advice from building their resume and finding their first internship, to applying to graduate programs, so that students can be successful wherever their passion may lie.
17. University of Maryland - College Park
The University of Maryland at College Park has established a Department of Economics with degree offerings of a BA or BS in Economics, an MS in Applied Economics or a PhD in Economics. Any undergraduate at the University of Maryland-College Park can obtain academic credit for internship experience and is encouraged to do so, broadening their experience and building relationships that could lead to their first job or an understanding of what their next step will be. Students are also fortunate to be in the Baltimore-Washington DC area that is home to plenty of government agencies, and the school provides bountiful opportunities for undergraduates to engage in research, giving students first-hand insight as to what their career could be.
18. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
In Chapel Hill, North Carolina, there is plenty of opportunity for success in economics, given the exceptional caliber of the Department of Economics at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, that offers pathways toward a BA or BS in Economics, an MS in Economics or a PhD in Economics. Undergraduates at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill are privileged with a wealth of extracurricular opportunities, such as the Economics Club that provides opportunities to be surrounded by like-minded peers, the Omicron Delta Epsilon honor society for exceptional students, the Phi Beta Kappa society to meet with other students in both social and academic capacities, and the Women in Economics club that seeks to boost representation and provide opportunities in what used to be a male-dominated field. Taking part in any of these will ease a student’s transition to college, while also giving the avenues to learn about opportunities and pathways from older, experienced students.
19. University of Illinois at Urbana - Champaign
The Department of Economics at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a plethora of undergraduate options for degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences (BALAS) in Economics, a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences (BSLAS) in Econometrics and Quantitative Economics, and a BSLAS in Computer Science and Economics. These undergraduate degrees are uniquely STEM certified, meaning international students get additional time to participate in the Optional Practical Training program. Additionally, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign provides a cutting-edge MS in Policy Economics and a standard PhD in Economics for students who want to further their education and expertise in the field. The Department encourages its undergraduates to conduct research with faculty, which gives them the ability to obtain valuable experience for their resume and potentially contribute to real change in the world.
20. University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities has a Department of Economics that will give any student a great education, either through its undergraduate degree offerings of a BA in Economics, a BA in Economics, Quantitative Emphasis, a BS in Economics, or its esteemed PhD in Economics. The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities has a dedicated office of Undergraduate Advising in Economics that ensures students are successful in their studies and graciously aids students that are falling behind. The Department of Economics also places an emphasis on undergraduate research, allowing any student who successfully applies to join the Research Assistant program that promises paid-hourly work in return for hands-on experience, giving students access to top-of-the-field researchers and an inside look at the world of academia.
21. University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin has one of the best and brightest Department of Economics in the country, and it offers a BA in Economics, an MA in Economics, and a PhD in Economics. The department sponsors the Texas Economics Association, a club for undergraduates to develop professionally, serve the community, and connect with other students, all with like-minded peers. The school even has its own chapter of the Omicron Delta Epsilon honor society for those who qualify, giving students the opportunity to add another accomplishment to their resume, if they meet the GPA threshold. The University of Texas at Austin also has a unique mentorship program, called the Econ Peer Mentor Program, that allows any first-year economics major to be paired with an upperclassman, giving time for a student to learn immediately about the programs offered and how to succeed in the department.
22. University of California - Riverside
The Department of Economics at the University of California at Riverside offers numerous undergraduate degrees in the form of a BA in Economics, a BA in Business Economics, a BA in Economics and Administrative Studies, and a BA in Economics, Law, and Society, along with a PhD in Economics at the graduate level. Undergraduates find magnificent academic advising that helps them wade through college’s waters with help only an email away, and can even join the Omicron Delta Epsilon economics honor society in order to have yet another impressive economics-focused accomplishment on their resume.
23. University of Maryland - Baltimore County
At the University of Maryland-Baltimore County, located in Baltimore, the Department of Economics provides a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees, such as a BA in Economics, a BS in Financial Economics, and an MA in Economic Policy Analysis. All of these opportunities are fantastic, and for those that are interested in working in government or around public policy, the proximity of the campus to Washington DC puts students in prime position for internship or fellowship opportunities. There is also the added benefit that graduates qualify for a $1000/semester scholarship to the MA in Economic Policy Analysis program, and they can even begin their master’s degree while completing their undergraduate studies.
24. University of California - Irvine
The University of California in Irvine has established itself as a first-rate economics school through the hard work of its Department of Economics, which provides fantastic opportunities to its undergraduate and graduate students. Undergraduates can choose to major in economics, business economics, or quantitative economics, and high-achieving students are eligible to join the department’s Honors Program, boosting their resume and access to higher-level classes. Graduate students have a wealth of opportunity as well, with highly acclaimed faculty guiding candidates through a PhD program that is well-regarded and has the possibility of earning an MA in Statistics in conjunction with it. Economics students at the University of California-Irvine can take advantage of the dedicated Job Resource Center and Career Center to improve their chances of landing their dream job.
25. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Placed in Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor’s Department of Economics has a wide array of degrees for every stage of an academic career, with a bachelor’s degree in economics, an MA in Applied Economics, and a PhD in Economics. Undergraduates have the pick of the lot with student groups, such as the Michigan Economic Society, Society of Women in Economics, the Michigan Journal of Economics, and the M-Etrics groups all welcoming members each semester. Students who opt to complement their education with membership in any of these amazing groups will truly benefit from surrounding themselves with like-minded peers to aid the transition to college, and the opportunities to network for future internship and career possibilities.
26. University of Colorado - Boulder
The University of Colorado-Boulder boasts a highly-regarded Department of Economics with abundant resources to enable a student’s future success, starting with a wide variety of areas to study. Undergraduates can earn a BA in Economics, and they are eligible to have an area of emphasis for their degree, which may be appealing to employers looking for candidates with a passion for a field. Impressive specialization options include in environmental and natural resources, international economics, public policy, and a quantitative emphasis. Graduate students can become PhD candidates in the quest to earn their PhD in Economics and can feel confident in their ability to secure a job upon graduation, due to the school’s excellent job placement program.
27. Stony Brook University
In Stony Brook, New York, Stony Brook University’s Department of Economics is building an excellent reputation due to its impressive academic quality and rigor, with its offering of a BA in Economics, an MA in Economics, and a PhD in Economics. Undergraduates have a world of opportunity available to them if they are willing to take it, as ambitious students can graduate with honors after completing a thesis, with the latter being especially beneficial since having a published study is always appealing to employers. Additionally, students can join the Omicron Delta Epsilon honor society after meeting a GPA threshold, and any undergraduate can earn academic credit for completing an internship. Both of these will fill one’s resume, allowing a student to succeed in whatever economics career they have a passion for.
28. Fort Hays State University
Located in Hays, Kansas, Fort Hays State University and its Department of Economics provide a quality degree at an affordable price, with its specialized degree offering a BBA in International Business and Economics. Fort Hays State University prides itself on providing an education that is in-demand, and this is shown through its wide array of unique offerings, allowing anyone to earn their Kansas Insurance Certificate or minor in Accounting or Finance, which can ensure that a student has the professional know-how to succeed in their first job. Students can also be certain they’re given plenty of opportunities to learn about real-world economics, through numerous guest speakers and excellent internship experiences.
29. Florida State University
Located in Tallahassee, Florida State University’s Department of Economics carries excellent degree programs: a BA in Economics, an MS in Applied Economics, and a PhD in Economics. There are also chances for exceptional undergraduate students to pursue advanced specialized studies in a variety of academic course pathways, such as advanced economic analysis, applied economics, market institutions, and political economy. The department also has an abundance of extracurricular opportunities: its two student organizations are Students for Economic Enrichment and a chapter of the National Association of Business Economists, in addition to the school’s internship program, which places students in local corporations and government positions in exchange for academic credit.
30. University of Vermont
Found in Burlington, the University of Vermont’s Department of Economics is dedicated solely to undergraduates, giving an intimate focus on students that will allow easier relationship building with faculty. The school offers a BA and a BS in Economics, giving students the option to choose whether to pursue a more qualitative or quantitative career. Ambitious students can complete a degree in economics through enrollment in the University of Vermont’s Honors College, which houses its students in their own residential building and gives like-minded students a group of peers to pursue their goals around. Additionally, students have the awesome opportunity to qualify for eight different scholarships available in the Department of Economics, which can ease financial burden and prove that recipients are worthy candidates on their resumes.
31. University at Buffalo
Located in Buffalo, New York, the University at Buffalo has a magnificent Department of Economics that allows undergraduate students to pursue a BA in Economics, or a joint degree of a BA in Mathematics/Economics, while graduate students can pursue an MA or a PhD in Economics, with specializations available as an MA in Economics and Education Policy Analysis and an MS in Econometric and Quantitative Economics. There is an abundance of experiential learning opportunities for undergraduates, with options of paid undergraduate TA positions, research opportunities, and economics internships. Additionally, the University at Buffalo has a significant number of financial aid, scholarship, and award opportunities available to aid any undergraduate who has a need or wishes to apply.
32. University of Utah
In Salt Lake City, the University of Utah has an economics department that provides its students with a highly-regarded degree with skills that are in-demand. Degrees offered are a BA or BS in Economics for undergraduates, and an MS in Economics or a PhD in Economics for graduate students. Undergraduates are fortunate to have the option of having a point of emphasis for their economics degree, in fields such as business economics analytics or statistical analysis. Both pathways provide students with a unique perspective and skillset that will greatly appeal to their future employers.
33. University of Washington - Seattle
Located in Seattle, the University of Washington-Seattle’s Department of Economics produces cutting-edge research with highly-regarded faculty and has ample opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. Undergraduates can choose from either a BS or a BA in Economics and can benefit from gaining invaluable internship experience, with the University providing career planning and resources to aid in this goal, along with the ability to earn academic credit for experience gained in a job related to their studies. Graduate students can earn a PhD in Economics that can lead to a career in academia or a wider potential of jobs in industry.
34. University of Maine
In Orono, Maine, the University of Maine’s School of Economics is quickly making a name for itself around the country, due to its quality undergraduate and graduate degree offerings and affordable price. This is one of the only schools on this list to offer a fully-online BA in Economics, and this is in addition to the impressive variety of highly specific undergraduate degrees of a BS in Economics, a BA in Financial Economics, a BS in Financial Economics, a BA in International Affairs-Economics, and a BS in Ecology and Environmental Science-Sustainability. The School of Economics’ graduate division similarly provides a wide range of degree offerings, in order to prepare graduates for a career in social sciences, government, or an application to a PhD program.
35. Michigan State University
Michigan State University is found in East Lansing, Michigan, and the university’s dedicated Department of Economics has a prestigious history in social science whose knowledge is passed down through its undergraduate and graduate degrees. Undergraduates can complete a BA or a BS in Economics, while graduate students can join the department’s prestigious PhD program. The Department of Economics at Michigan State University has many successful alumni and faculty, including a current Michigan State University economist and faculty member who has been asked to aid President-Elect Joe Biden’s transition team on economic matters. Having access to esteemed minds like this is one of the many benefits of joining Michigan State University’s Department of Economics.
36. University of Arizona
Based in Tucson, the Department of Economics at the University of Arizona offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, while having access to faculty working on groundbreaking research. The department offers the undergraduate degrees of a BA in Economics or a BSBA in Business Economics, as well as the graduate degrees of a MS in Econometrics and Quantitative Economics or a PhD in Economics. There is a very professional focus in the economics department, and its Undergraduate Professional Development center helps undergraduates in all stages of the job hiring process, from polishing resumes to preparing for interviews to career events; they are truly dedicated to the success of each and every student. These programs and degree offerings create a perfect pathway into business for career-minded economics students.
37. University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
The Denver-located University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus has a dedicated and worthy Department of Economics that offers quality undergraduate and graduate degrees for an affordable price, and in a booming city. Undergraduates can major in economics, while graduate students can pursue an MA in Economics, an MS in Health Economics, or a PhD in Health Economics. As the university is connected to a large medical center, the Department of Economics has a health-centered focus, especially for graduate programs. If a student’s goal is to be at the intersection of healthcare and economics, then this may be the perfect school for them, as first-hand experience is literally in the same building.
38. Colorado State University - Fort Collins
Found in Fort Collins, Colorado, the Department of Economics at Colorado State University-Fort Collins offers an undergraduate BA in Economics and a PhD in Economics. The Department of Economics here offers accelerated programs for undergraduate degrees, allowing any student to graduate earlier and enter the workforce or graduate school sooner. Additionally, the school has a dedicated chapter of the Omicron Delta Epsilon economics honor society, giving qualified students the option to fill their resume with an impressive accomplishment and award for their hard work as well as providing them with critical networking opportunities.
39. Rutgers University - New Brunswick
Located in New Brunswick, New Jersey, the Department of Economics at Rutgers University-New Brunswick gives aspiring students plenty to be excited about. Notably, this department holds conservative thinker and Nobel Prize of Economics winner Milton Friedman as one of its alumni, and the rich academic and research tradition present then is still thriving today, with a BA in Economics, MA in Economics, and PhD in Economics all on offer. The Department has a specific focus on international economics, so students interested in the field can opt to pursue membership in the chapter of the Omicron Delta Epsilon-International Economics honor society, which specifically honors those studying the field of international economics.
40. University of Kansas
In Lawrence, Kansas, the University of Kansas has a Department of Economics that offers the degrees of a BA in Economics, BS in Economics, MA in Economics, and PhD in Economics. There is a wealth of opportunity at the University of Kansas in its Department of Economics, notably starting with the wide array of scholarships and awards available to its undergraduates. These nine scholarships help alleviate the burden of tuition, and they can prove a beneficial addition to resumes as they prove the student’s impressive academic acumen.
41. University of Iowa
Found in Iowa City, the University of Iowa’s Department of Economics offers a well-regarded faculty that shares exceptional research and teaching with undergraduate and graduate students, where students can complete a BBA in Economics, BA in Economics, BS in Economics on either a business or policy track, and a PhD in Economics. The Department prides itself on its employment rate for economics graduates: 97% of alumni are either employed or in graduate school just six months from graduation. This is incredibly impressive, and bodes well for those who are admitted to the department.
42. University of Massachusetts - Boston
Located in Boston, Massachusetts, the University of Massachusetts-Boston offers students the opportunity to earn a degree in its highly-rated and centrally-located Department of Economics. Students can earn the undergraduate degree of a BA in Economics or the graduate degree of a MA in Economics, and during their studies, they can join the National Economics Honor Society, fulfill a GPA threshold to graduate with honors, or apply to win a number of scholarships and awards. All of this and more is available to those who choose to join the Department of Economics at the University of Massachusetts-Boston.
43. CUNY City College
Found in New York City, CUNY City College’s Department of Economics has a storied history of providing undergraduate and graduate students with an outstanding education. Students can earn a BA in Economics or an MA in Economics, with the latter allowing specializations in finance, business management, or public economics, giving any graduate student a pick of the professional sector that they choose to enter after graduation. The school even generously offers a BA/MA program that allows students the opportunity to complete both degrees at an accelerated rate, helping them meet their career goals sooner and at a more affordable rate.
44. University of Rhode Island
Located in Kingston, Rhode Island, the University of Rhode Island has a Department of Economics that is fully dedicated to making its students’ undergraduate academic experience the most fulfilling and enriching that it can possibly be. The department offers degrees leading to a BA or a BS in Economics, and even provides a unique opportunity for its economics students to study abroad in Cuba, giving students perspective on another economic system of governance. The school also proudly provides its students with opportunities for excellent internships to build real-world experiences and has an Economics Student Association where students can develop important peer relationships and gain networking skills.
45. University of Detroit Mercy
In Detroit, Michigan, the University of Detroit Mercy’s College of Liberal Arts and Education offers a top education with in-demand degrees, such as a BA or MA in either Economics or Financial Economics, and a MS in Applied Data Analysis. One of the school’s most beneficial opportunities is the option of getting both an BA and MA in Economics degree in just five years total, saving money, time, and showing employers that you have an impressive work ethic. The school also understands that many students prefer the option of an online education, so it proudly offers multiple online degrees in economics that are incredibly flexible.
46. Texas A & M University - College Station
Located in College Station, the Department of Economics at Texas A & M University-College Station offers a top-education with world-class faculty and research capabilities, which would be incredibly beneficial for any student looking to start research early in their college career. The Department offers a multitude of degrees, such as a BS in Economics, a BA in Economics, a MS in Economics with a focus on financial economics or econometrics, and a PhD in Economics. Notably, 34 students in the Department received scholarships for the 2020-2021 school year, showing students here are devoted to their success.
47. Western Washington University
In Bellingham, Washington, Western Washington University’s Department of Economics offers a BA in Economics as well as varying paths of study that students can embark on that combine economics with other disciplines in a unique way, like in majors in accounting and economics, environmental studies and economics, and more. This school focuses on the individual experience of its students through initiatives like the WW Student Economic Association, which is a student club that meets and discusses economics issues while networking and socializing peers: a truly great opportunity for anyone just entering college.
48. Arizona State University - Tempe
Arizona State University-Tempe, based in Tempe, has a Department of Economics that is on the rise, and doing so by educating students at a reasonable price and with quality. Undergraduates can study towards a BS in Economics or a BS in Politics and the Economy, the latter of which focuses on classical texts and gives a foundational understanding of the government and economics. Undergraduates may also major in economics and engineering management, a completely unique opportunity for those with a passion for both fields. The department also has a small PhD program that prides itself on its intimate nature, and the faculty and PhD candidates put out serious and well-respected research.
49. Colorado School of Mines
The Division of Economics at Colorado School of Mines, which is found in Golden, Colorado, has steadily a built a name for itself as one of the most respected schools of economics in the country, and this success has been founded upon the degrees offered: a BS in Economics, and an MS or a more unique PhD in Mineral and Energy Economics, which is a world-renowned program for graduate students. What sets the Division of Economics at Colorado School of Mines apart is that it is much more rigorous mathematically than at most other schools, giving students who wish to pursue a career in STEM a more qualified candidate.
50. South Dakota State University
In Brookings, South Dakota, one can find the School of Management and Economics at South Dakota State University, where a student can study towards a BA or BS in Economics, a BA in Agricultural and Resource Economics, a BA in Business Economics, and an MS in Economics. Both undergraduate and graduate students in these programs at South Dakota State University have access to a unique learning opportunity: the First Dakota National Bank eTrading Education Lab, which is a first-of-its-kind experiential learning tool that allows students access to Bloomberg Trading Terminals. Students can also manage real money through the Student Managed Investment Fund. For those eager for a career on Wall Street, this can give the experience and know-how that will land you the job.
To get a more in-depth look at our school ranking methodology, please visit Study.com's ranking methodology page.
Types of Economics Degrees
Associate Degree in Economics
An associate degree in economics can lay the foundation for a career in this field. Although associate degrees in economics are fairly uncommon, some programs are available. Typically, those who earn an associate degree in economics will transfer to a four-year bachelor's degree program if they hope to work specifically in economics. Coursework might include the following topics:
Completing an associate degree before entering a bachelor's degree program can reduce the cost of earning a degree overall.
Bachelor's Degree in Economics
A bachelor's degree in economics typically lasts four years and is an more in-depth introduction to this field. When studying for a bachelor's degree, you will be introduced to a wide range of economic theories and principles. At an introductory level, you will take courses in calculus, statistics, microeconomics and macroeconomics. Microeconomics is the study of individual decision-making and how it effects the market, and macroeconomics is the study of the economy as a whole.
After these core courses, you will study economics concepts focusing on particular areas of interest. Some examples include:
There are many jobs for students graduating with a bachelor's degree in economics, and in addition to being able to enter the professional world, you'll also be prepped to earn a graduate degree, such as an MBA, MPA, or law degree.
Should I Major in Economics?
An undergraduate economics degree is extremely versatile, allowing you to develop skills in applied mathematics, analysis, problem solving, and writing. As such, a bachelor's in economics can be an excellent choice if you want to pursue advanced studies in economics, or if you haven't yet decided on your future career path. In many ways, the degree program combines business and STEM together, making it both widely applicable and highly valued.
Master's Degree in Economics
Earning a master's degree can enhance your career prospects in economics. Two options to consider might be a master's in applied economics or an MBA with a concentration in economics.
Most master's in applied economics programs are one to two years in length. All master's students will need to take the following required courses:
You would then choose an area of focus, such as health economics, labor economics, or the economies of a particular area of the world, such as Latin America or Asia.
Communicating economic ideas to a broad audience is an important component of master's programs. International students should note that most master's in economics programs are designated to be within the STEM field, which qualifies you for specific student visas.
Another option would be to earn a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in economics. MBA programs typically take two years of full-time study to complete; however part-time and executive options are widely available. To earn an MBA with a concentration in economics, you would take core courses in management, finance, and business strategy and then choose electives in the economics arena.
Ph.D. in Economics
If you wish to be poised for positions at the highest level of the field such as a college professor or governmental economist, researching various issues of economic theory, you should consider a Ph.D. in economics.
Admissions to Ph.D. programs in economics can be highly competitive. You will be required to submit an undergraduate transcript, GRE scores, and recommendations to gain acceptance. Applicants may pursue admission to doctoral programs after earning a bachelor's degree. Most Ph.D. programs take five to six years to complete. Doctoral students take advanced courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics. They then choose areas of specialization and take courses in these areas. Some examples of fields you might specialize in would be:
Attending workshops or conferences in the field of specialization is expected. After the first year of study, students typically take oral or written qualifying exams. When major coursework is complete, you will prepare a doctoral dissertation, working closely with faculty members. Writing a dissertation is a one- to two-year process, with the defense of the dissertation as the final step.
Certificate in Economics
Certificates in economics allow you to demonstrate knowledge of the field or specialization in a specific sub-field. These certificates are available on both the undergraduate and graduate levels and typically will take one to three years to complete. A certificate program in economics may include courses in the following topics:
Many prestigious business schools, such as Harvard Business School or the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern, offer economics certificate programs, allowing you to learn from industry leaders without the pressures of applying to their full degree programs.
What Can You Do with an Economics Degree?
The possibilities for a career for holders of an economics degree vary based on the level of the degree. Branches of government at the state and federal level, banks, and educational institutions are the most frequent employers of economics degree-holders, but typically, you would need at least a master's degree in economics to qualify for a position with the job title of economist.
| Degree Level | Types of Positions |
|---|---|
| Associate | |
| Bachelor's | |
| Master's | |
| Ph.D. | |
Online Economics Degree
Particularly at the associate's through master's degree level, online economics degree programs are a flexible alternative to traditional classroom learning. If you are searching for an online bachelor's program in economics, be sure that the program is accredited and offers areas of specialization that you're interested in. Many well-regarded institutions have migrated to online economics master's degree programs, and students interested in this level of education should consider this option for study.
Online degree programs typically allow you to complete coursework on your own schedule and from anywhere with an internet connection. However, they can be as expensive as attending a traditional in-classroom program. To succeed in an online program, you must be self-motivated and goal-oriented. You must also ensure you have the correct technology (laptop or desktop, webcam, etc.) and are comfortable with its use.
Economics Certificate Online
Both undergraduate and graduate economics certificates can be found online in university programs. Pacing for specific programs varies: some might hold scheduled class meetings where the instructor gives lessons live in a virtual classroom, while others have lessons that can be viewed independently of when they were originally recorded. Many economics certificates are earned entirely online, with no in-person attendance necessary. This allows you to hold down a full-time job while expanding your economics knowledge.
