Top Undergraduate Economics Programs: A Comprehensive Guide

The study of economics provides a framework for understanding the intricate mechanisms of the economy and how financial systems adapt to evolving circumstances. An undergraduate degree in economics serves as an introduction to key economic concepts, including risk management, public administration, and foreign affairs. The increasing popularity of economics as a major reflects its relevance in today's world. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the number of people earning a bachelor's degree in economics rose from 27,623 in 2010 to 34,636 in 2021.

The Value of an Economics Degree

Graduating with an economics degree can lead to a dynamic and expanding career. These programs cultivate the skills that future economists need, covering essential topics such as statistics, microeconomics, macroeconomics, and corporate finance.

Career Prospects and Earning Potential

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 13% growth in economist jobs from 2020 to 2030, highlighting the increasing demand for professionals with expertise in this field. March 2022 Payscale data indicates that graduates with a bachelor's degree in economics earn an average of $75,000 per year, which is higher than the national average salary. August 2025 Payscale data indicates that individuals with bachelor’s degrees in economics earned an average salary of $86,000, nearly $36,000 higher than the average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Research also suggests that majoring in economics can lead to a $22,000 entry-level salary increase compared to other majors.

Career Opportunities

An economics degree can open doors to various in-demand careers, including financial analysts, market research analysts, and actuaries. Economists are employed in almost every industry across the public and private sectors, assisting banks, educational institutions, corporations, and government agencies. The skills acquired through an economics degree are applicable in diverse fields such as research, energy, banking, and real estate. An entry-level economist can also advance to more senior positions, such as securities trader.

Curriculum and Key Concepts

Economics bachelor's degrees teach concepts like microeconomics, macroeconomics, and statistics.

Microeconomics

Microeconomics analyzes the relationship between individuals and businesses to determine how consumer decisions affect the economy. Students explore monopolistic competition, supply and demand, and consumer behavior. This course explores the effects of individual and business decisions on the economy and society. Learners discover microeconomics principles and theory, along with interactions between policy and microeconomics. This course also covers supply, demand, and achieving market equilibrium.

Macroeconomics

Macroeconomics examines the effects of governmental decisions and large-scale behaviors on the economy. Enrollees learn about taxation, the production of goods and services, infrastructure, and inflation. Intermediate macroeconomics dives into inflation, supply and demand, business cycles, fiscal policy, and international supply chains. Learners also discover how the money market works and how organizations and society attribute or hinder economic growth.

Econometrics

Econometrics combines microeconomics and macroeconomics with statistical data analysis. Learners discover how economists use mathematical models to predict the economy's future.

Statistics

Economics majors learn to collect and organize economic data. They analyze this information to predict supply, demand, and other economic variables. These professionals use advanced mathematical concepts to dissect, compile, and understand data. Statisticians with backgrounds in economics might use their skills to analyze current and predict future economic trends.

Supply Chain Analysis

This course teaches students every step of the supply chain process, including planning, sourcing, and delivery. Degree-seekers learn about managing supply and demand, coordinating supply chain activities, and making sourcing decisions.

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Degree Options and Formats

Understanding the various options available can help students find the best fit for their career aspirations. Degree-seekers can choose a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) in economics.

Bachelor of Arts vs. Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science variation typically emphasizes math and science concepts, including statistics and calculus. In contrast, Bachelor of Arts programs usually include more social sciences and economics theory courses. Despite their subtle differences, these bachelor's degrees require the same number of credits and length to completion. However, a Bachelor of Arts curriculum may include additional electives.

Accelerated and Combined Programs

Accelerated economics bachelor's degrees may allow learners to complete their bachelor's in three years, while a combined bachelor's-to-master's curriculum may take five.

Online vs. In-Person Programs

Online and in-person undergraduate economics programs offer students the same curricula and learning opportunities. However, prospective enrollees should consider key differences. For instance, an online economics degree's heavy math-based curriculum could prove challenging for students who thrive in classroom-based environments. Online classes provide flexibility for learners who live far from their campus. Additionally, asynchronous courses without scheduled lectures and meeting times offer greater scheduling flexibility to online students. Hybrid programs feature a blend of online and in-person learning, benefiting enrollees who need an accommodating schedule.

Economics vs. Accounting

Accounting and economics bachelor's degrees have many similarities, making it challenging to determine which program may offer the best fit. Degree-seekers will find that these two degrees include some of the same courses and require the same time commitment and credit loads. However, a bachelor's in economics degree may have more admission requirements and prerequisites for students to meet. Learners seeking a specific career should also be mindful of the varied professional outcomes of each degree.

Admissions Process

The admissions process for an economics bachelor's degree begins with an application and submission of high school transcripts or proof of GED completion. Some schools also require applicants to complete macroeconomics, microeconomics, and statistics courses with passing grades before declaring an economics major. Additional requirements for some programs include a minimum GPA of 3.0 and ACT or SAT scores. Though not all schools require candidates to provide letters of recommendation, these documents may increase an applicant's chances of acceptance. Applicants should consider using Common App to streamline the process of applying to multiple schools.

Popular Economics Undergraduate Courses

Undergraduate economics programs include general education, core curriculum, and elective courses. General education courses, such as composition and calculus, take up most of the first two terms. Then, students begin their core curriculum of targeted economics courses and relevant electives of their choosing. Most programs also end with capstone projects, in which students apply learned concepts to real-world situations.

Intermediate Microeconomics

This core course explores the effects of individual and business decisions on the economy and society. Learners discover microeconomics principles and theory, along with interactions between policy and microeconomics. This course also covers supply, demand, and achieving market equilibrium.

Intermediate Macroeconomics

Another addition to the core curriculum, intermediate macroeconomics dives into inflation, supply and demand, business cycles, fiscal policy, and international supply chains. Learners also discover how the money market works and how organizations and society attribute or hinder economic growth. Coursework develops crucial analytic skills for future economists.

Environmental Economics

In this course, students research how dire environmental issues affect the supply chain, society, and the economy. Learners explore how population growth affects the environment and, subsequently, the economy. This course builds logical thinking, math, and science skills that help economic professionals piece together key data points.

Rural Sociology

An example of a relevant elective, rural sociology covers critical societal issues in rural America and how they affect society as a whole. Students can relate these concepts to their economics studies as they determine how rural economies and behaviors affect a larger community and economy and vice versa.

Cost of Economics Bachelor's Programs

An economics bachelor's degree costs $200-$660 per credit, on average. Therefore, a 120-credit program may cost $24,000-$79,200. However, some schools offer per-semester or per-year tuition, which can reduce total program costs - especially for accelerated degrees. Tuition rates may also vary between in-state and out-of-state learners, with the latter costing more per credit. Some schools also assign different tuition rates for online learners, which may be higher than in-state tuition. Degree-seekers can receive help paying for their education with financial aid. Students do not need to pay back scholarships or grants but must repay loans after the initial deferment period.

Career Paths for Economics Graduates

An economics major can prepare graduates for several careers, including financial and market analysts. Earning a certification or advanced degree in economics may broaden career and salary opportunities. However, some jobs requiring only a bachelor's degree also pay higher-than-average salaries. According to Indeed, quantitative analysts and senior market analysts are among the highest-paying economics careers.

Actuary

Actuaries typically possess accounting backgrounds but use mathematical and statistical analysis skills to determine financial risk for a company. Their duties include compiling and dissecting financial reports, reporting findings to financial managers, and designing policies to mitigate risk. Actuaries often work in the insurance industry but also work with government agencies or large corporations.

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts work with businesses to increase their profits. They analyze operational costs, revenue trends, and company strengths and weaknesses to offer suggestions for improvement. These professionals typically work in the investment and insurance industries. Economics students interested in financial analyst careers can focus their electives on financial courses, like accounting and corporate investments.

Economist

Economists stay abreast of economic trends and make projections for organizations, the media, or the government. Economists study how business, society, and the economy affect one another. Their work assists in identifying opportunities for economic growth and mitigating the risk of inflation and supply chain issues.

Statistician

Statisticians use mathematical and statistical models to organize and analyze data they collect from polls, surveys, and other methods.

Market Research Analyst

Market research analysts use economic data to determine consumer trends and maximize profits. These professionals work in almost every industry. Employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree for leadership positions.

Top Undergraduate Economics Programs

The following ranking includes some of the top undergrad econ degrees to help you begin your search for the right program.

Florida International University (FIU)

FIU's BA in Economics helps prepare students to work in government institutions and the private sector. Enrollees receive a well-rounded education, attracting many recruiters to campus. The program begins with preparation courses in calculus, statistics, microeconomics, and macroeconomics. Students then complete 18 economics core credits. They explore econometrics, economics theory, and economic activity analysis. Students can complete the BA in economics online or on campus. Although the curricula establish similar credit requirements, the online program permits more electives.

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (N.C. A&T)

N.C. A&T's Willie A. Deese College of Business and Economics fosters a student-focused environment. Through programs like the BS in economics, students learn critical thinking and leadership skills. Students choose electives in areas like global awareness, humanities, fine arts, and African American culture and history. Three core economics classes cover business communications, information systems management, and business environments. N.C. A&T offers two economics concentrations: law and business. Each path adds mandatory courses, but students can still choose two free electives.

Fort Hays State University (FHSU)

FHSU offers its BBA in international business and economics online and on campus. Learners study global economics, finance, and marketing. Degree-seekers start with nine business core classes. These foundational courses cover accounting, marketing, business law, and managerial finance. The economics core includes mandatory classes in international economics, finance, business, and marketing. Enrollees select eight electives to complete major requirements. FHSU's Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting provides opportunities for students to gain work experience while earning credits.

University of Hawai'i (UH) Mānoa

UH Mānoa's BA in economics provides a global perspective on finance, trade, and business. Course topics include the Japanese economy, Asian economic development, and international macroeconomics. Before starting the core economics curriculum, students complete four introductory courses that explore economics principles. The core section covers intermediate micro- and macroeconomics, plus statistics. Students then choose electives to complete their degrees. Elective subjects include sustainable development, energy economics, and economic forecasting. Economics students interested in advanced study can pursue the on-campus bridge program. This five-year curriculum applies undergraduate economics courses toward a graduate degree.

Eastern Washington University (EWU)

EWU's bachelor of science in economics cultivates innovators and global thinkers. Students fulfill further degree requirements and personalize the curriculum by choosing five electives. Three must relate to economics or finance. Elective topics include sustainability, international, and behavioral economics. An economics senior capstone completes the program. Enrollees prepare portfolios, explore wage and employment theories, and complete an economics project. EWU also offers a bachelor of arts in economics. This program mirrors the BS option but removes the required mathematics and computing electives.

Selecting the Right Program

Choosing the best program for your needs can help you reach your educational and career goals. Consider the following factors when searching for an economics bachelor's degree:

Accreditation: Accredited programs meet quality standards set by accrediting bodies. Look for programs accredited by AACSB or IACBE, which commonly endorse economics programs. Always ensure that the college or university holds institutional accreditation, as well.
Curriculum: Does a curriculum allow you to include electives that build specific skills or interests? Consider if the program's courses align with your career goals.
Research Opportunities: Some economics programs include internships or research opportunities for students to gain practical experience. If you are studying online, make sure you can meet in-person field requirements.
Concentrations: Programs with concentration options can benefit students interested in specializing in an area of economics, such as public policy or international economics.
Graduate Support: What alum support is available for graduates? Research if a program includes career services, networking opportunities, and graduate school preparation.

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