Economics Major
Economics is the study of how people, firms, and societies allocate scarce resources. It is a major within Business & Management.
Economics is the study of how people, firms, and governments make decisions about limited resources. It examines questions like: Why do prices change? How do people choose what to buy or what job to take? What happens when the government raises taxes or interest rates? The major teaches you to think systematically about incentives, trade-offs, and consequences. You learn tools—mostly mathematical and statistical—to analyze real-world problems ranging from individual behavior to international trade.
Students drawn to economics often enjoy problem-solving and are curious about current events, social policy, and how systems work. The major typically begins with foundational courses covering basic economic principles and how to interpret data, then progresses to more specialized topics where you apply those tools to particular questions or sectors. Most programs combine theory with practical analysis, using real data to test ideas and develop critical thinking about complex issues.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a Economics program commonly includes topics such as:
- Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics
- Econometrics
- International economics
- Game theory
- Public finance
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
Economics is commonly offered at these levels:
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- Doctoral
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a Economics background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Economic analyst
- Policy analyst
- Data analyst
- Researcher
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
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Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a Economics major?
Economics is the study of how people, firms, and societies allocate scarce resources. It is part of business & management, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do Economics majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, international economics, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a Economics major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as economic analyst, policy analyst, data analyst. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is Economics offered at?
It is commonly offered at the bachelor's, master's, doctoral level, though availability varies by institution.