Best Economics Schools: The Top Colleges and Universities for Economics Programs
Economics is a thriving field that promises good job opportunities and high salaries for economics degree holders. When you get a degree from one of the best schools for economics, you will be getting a quality education and an added advantage in the labor market. The best economics universities make you respected and your skills trusted in the field.
This article can help you get started as it provides information on some of the best economics schools as well as the highest paying jobs and salaries in the field. At the end of the article, you will be able to choose the best school and economics degree to pursue your dream career.
Best Economics College and University Rankings: Top 10 Economics Schools at a Glance
| School | State | Formats Available | US News Ranking | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado State University | CO | In-person, online | #148 | |
| Columbia University | NY | In-person | #2 (tie) | |
| Harvard University | MA | In-person, online | #2 (tie) | |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | MA | In-person | #2 (tie) | |
| Oregon State University | OR | In-person, online, hybrid | #162 | |
| Stanford University | CA | In-person | #6 | |
| University of California, Berkeley | CA | In-person | #22 | |
| The University of Chicago | IL | In-person | #6 (tie) | |
| University of Utah | UT | In-person, online | #99 | |
| Yale University | CT | In-person | #5 |
Find Your Bootcamp Match
- Career Karma matches you with top tech bootcamps
- Access exclusive scholarships and prep courses
By continuing you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy , and you consent to receive offers and opportunities from Career Karma by telephone, text message, and email.
Economics School Rankings: Best Economics Colleges and Universities
The best economics colleges and universities in the US include some world-renowned schools like Harvard University, Columbia University, Massachusetts Institution of Technology, and Yale University. We cover in-depth information on each school and all the school’s economics programs to help you make an informed decision.
Colorado State University
Graduation Rate: 69%
Colorado State University is a public institution and the flagship of the Colorado State University system. It was founded in 1870 and is the state’s only land-grant university. The school offers undergraduate and graduate programs online and on-campus through its nine colleges.
Colorado State University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhD
- US News Ranking: #148
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #351-#400
Best Colorado State University Economics Programs
- Minor in Economics . This 21-credit program is designed to teach students economic analysis and to examine social issues. This minor can be added to a degree program by students enrolled in liberal arts, natural sciences, business, and engineering-related programs.
- Major in Economics. This 33-credit program includes 11 courses and requires students to complete a second major or a minor. Students are encouraged to take a secondary program related to economics or pursue something relevant to their academic or career goals.
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics . This program is a traditional on-campus program that trains students in the field of economics and prepares them for a career. The program can be taken as a 26-credit honors program that involves more rigorous coursework and a small learning community.
- Online Bachelor of Arts in Economics . This program can be taken fully online but is taught by the same faculty and includes the same coursework as the in-person program. It is a 120-credit program that will prepare students for careers in economics. Students in this program must choose a minor.
- Accelerated Bachelor of Arts in Economics . This is a fast-tracked program that allows students to complete their bachelor’s program in under four years. It includes summer courses and helps to reduce the overall tuition cost. Like the other programs, it also requires 120 credit hours.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Economics . This program will train students in economic theory and research methods. It focuses on philosophical and social issues around economics analysis. It covers five areas of study and requires 30 credit hours of core courses and 24 credit hours of research. It can be completed in five years.
Colorado State University Economics Key Takeaway
Colorado State University is an accredited research university that is well respected globally. It has a career center that helps students prepare for the job market with services such as interview prep and a job search guide.
Columbia University
Graduation Rate: 97%
Columbia University in the City of New York is a private Ivy League university established in 1754. It is the oldest higher institution in New York and the fifth oldest in the country. It offers bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, and certificate programs. It has a total of 31,455 students.
Columbia University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 4%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degreed Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhD
- US News Ranking: #2
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #11
Best Columbia University Economics Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Economics . This program has six majors and one concentration. It uses a scientific approach to study micro and macroeconomics. The knowledge and skills gained in this field can be applied to real-life situations and prepares students for careers in the field.
- Master of Arts Program in Economics . This program requires students to complete eight core courses and at least nine elective credit hours. Students are required to write a research paper that will be used as their capstone project. The research paper should show that students can carry out original research and produce insightful results.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Economics . This program requires students to complete eight courses in their first year and get a minimum of a B- in each course. They also have to complete certifying exams, field exams, colloquium presentations, paper requirements, proposal requirements, and advising sessions.
Columbia University Economics Key Takeaway
Columbia University's economics department is ranked among the best institutions for economics research in the world , according to the program website.
Harvard University
Graduation Rate: 97%
Founded in 1636, Harvard University is a private Ivy League university. It is the oldest university in the United States and is well-known for providing excellent research, teaching, and educational services. It offers various undergraduate programs, graduate programs, and professional certificates as well as free online courses through 13 schools in multiple fields.
Harvard University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 4%
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Degreed Offered: Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhD
- US News Ranking: #2
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #2
Best Harvard University Economics Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics . This program has two tracks that are the basic track and the honors program. They have the same requirements, but the honors program requires students to choose between a thesis track and an advanced course track. Students can also choose to specialize in Applied Math/Economics.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Economics . This program requires students to complete coursework in macroeconomic and microeconomics, quantitative economics, political economy, history, or behavioral economics. Other requirements are a research proposal, dissertation, and advising sessions.
- Business Economics Graduate Certificate . This professional certificate program is a fully online program that requires students to complete four courses. It can be completed in a year and a half. It will teach students the role and influence of economics in various fields.
Harvard University Economics Key Takeaway
Harvard University's graduate economics department is known as one of the best in the world , according to its official website. Its professors consist of Nobel prize winners, Clark Medal winners, and MacArthur Fellowship recipients.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Graduation Rate: 96%
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a private land-grant research university founded in 1861. This world-renowned institution offers various degrees across 30 departments and five schools. It is well known for offering high-quality research, innovation, and education. MIT offers professional education to executives, managers, entrepreneurs, and technical professionals who want to upskill. It has a total of 11,934 students.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 4%
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Degreed Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: #2
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #5
Best Massachusetts Institute of Technology Economics Programs
- Economics Minor . In this minor, students will have to take six subjects across three levels of study. Students will choose three courses from tier one, one from tier two, and two from tier three.
- Undergraduate Major in Economics - Concentration in Economics and SHASS . This is one of the two concentrations in the economics Bachelor of Science degree. It requires students to complete three subjects, principles of microeconomics and/or principles of macroeconomics, and one or two more electives.
- Bachelor of Science in Economics Concentration in Development Economics . This program is for students who want to learn how to use economics to solve the challenges of world poverty. Students will take courses in world poverty, macroeconomics, and economic development.
- Master of Applied Science in Data, Economics, and Development Policy . In this program, students will complete online coursework, residential coursework, and a capstone project. Subjects covered include microeconomics, data analysis, and developmental economics. The program requires 109 units.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Economics . Graduates of this program will understand the principles of economic theory and how it is applied. They have to complete core courses in the first two years of the program, coursework in two major fields and two minor fields, a general exam, written and oral assessments, and a dissertation.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Economics Key Takeaway
Undergraduate students at MIT are allowed to pursue original research. The school encourages creativity and exploration for all of its students.
Oregon State University
Graduation Rate: 68%
Oregon State University is the public land-grant research learning institution of Oregon founded in 1868. It offers over 200 academic programs through 11 colleges on two campuses. It has extensions in 36 counties, a total student body of 34,108, and a student-to-faculty ratio of 18-to-one.
Oregon State University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 89%
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Degreed Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhD
- US News Ranking: #162
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #401-#500
Best Oregon State University Economics Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Economics . This program requires a total of 180 credit hours. Students must complete a minimum of 51 major course credits and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 throughout the program. Four paths are available in general economics, managerial economics, mathematical economics, and law, economics, and policy.
- Online Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics . This program is available fully online, can be completed in four years, and requires a total of 180 credits. It gives students a strong foundation in quantitative analysis, oral and written communication, problem-solving, and research methods. Students can earn either a BA or BS in this field and will complete the general requirements of their preferred degree.
- Master of Science in Applied Economics . This 45-credit program prepares students for careers in analytics, policy, or management. They must complete core subjects in economic theory and econometrics, concentration subjects, and electives. The research option requires 15 months of study while the thesis option requires 21 to 24 months.
- Master of Arts in Applied Economics . The main difference between the Master of Science and Master of Arts programs is the foreign language proficiency requirement that MA students must have. This means they must be enrolled in a foreign language before taking their final oral examination.
- Accelerated Master’s Platform in Applied Economics. This program is completed as a dual degree with the bachelor’s degree program. Students can complete an undergraduate degree and an MS or MA in Applied Economics within five years. Undergraduate students can apply if they have already completed 105 of their 180 credits.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Economics . This program prepares students for careers in academia, consulting, and government and financial services. The program course courses include two concentration areas, elective courses, a research paper, and dissertation research. The program requires 108 credits and can be completed in four years.
Oregon State University Economics Key Takeaway
According to its official page, Oregon State University is among the top 1.4 percentile of universities in the world and has more research funding than any other higher institution in Oregon.
Stanford University
Graduation Rate: 96%
Stanford University is a private institution founded in 1891. It has a total of 16,937 students and offers over 200 graduate programs. Students are guaranteed a personalized school experience with Stanford’s student-to-faculty ratio of five-to-one.
The school offers lifelong learning opportunities which include continuing adult education, executive and professional programs, and programs for K-12 students. Its online programs cover graduate education, professional education, programs for organizations, and free courses.
Stanford University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 4%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior Colleges and Universities Commission
- Degreed Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhD
- US News Ranking: #6
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #4
Best Stanford University Economics Programs
- Minor in Economics . This program is designed for students who want to get a basic background in economics to complement their major program. It requires 35 credit hours. Students learn economic analysis and the principles of economics.
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics . Students choose from and take courses in six focus areas. The program has a total of 80 credit units divided into core courses, electives, field courses, and a major course.
- Master of Arts in Economics . This degree is only offered as an add-on to the PhD program. PhD students who want to earn a master’s degree will have to apply for it separately. It requires a minimum of 45 units and students must maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout the program.
- PhD Minor in Economics . This program is for students pursuing a PhD in fields other than economics. Students of this program must complete a minimum of 20 units of coursework which count as part of the overall units for their major program.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Economics . Students of this program must fulfill teaching, university residency, core course, field, distribution, field seminars, and workshop requirements. The core course requirements include microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. It is a 135-unit program.
Stanford University Economics Key Takeaway
Stanford gives students academic freedom by allowing them to explore courses across disciplines.
University of California, Berkeley
Graduation Rate: 93%
Established in 1868, the University of California, Berkeley is the first land-grant university in California and the first campus of the University of California system. According to its official page, the University of California Berkeley is considered the best public university globally and has 32 Nobel prize holders.
University of California, Berkeley Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 14%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior Colleges and Universities Commission
- Degreed Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhD
- US News Ranking: #22
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #8
Best University of California, Berkeley Economics Programs
- Environmental Economics and Policy (EEP) major . This four-year program is open to students in the Berkeley Rausser College of Natural Resources and the College of Letters & Science. The program focuses on environmental economics, microeconomic theory, the economics of resources, calculus, and statistics.
- Bachelor of Science in Economics . This program requires students to complete five prerequisites before starting the program. They must complete core courses in macroeconomics, microeconomics, and econometrics throughout the program.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Economics . This program is designed for students looking to pursue advanced study and complete original research in economics. It can be completed in five to six years and will require students to go through preparation for candidacy and completion of a dissertation to graduate.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Agricultural & Resource Economics . This program creates professional researchers in development economics and environmental and energy economics. Students will take courses like microeconomic theory and econometrics.
University of California, Berkeley Economics Key Takeaway
University of California, Berkeley is ranked highly for having one of the best economics programs in the country. Its official page boasts six Nobel prizes and six John Bate Clark medals.
The University of Chicago
Graduation Rate: 96%
The University of Chicago is a private research university founded in 1890. Its undergraduate college offers 53 majors and 47 minors. The graduate college offers four divisions and seven professional schools. It has a total of 17,470 students.
The University of Chicago Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 6%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degreed Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhD
- US News Ranking: #6
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #10
Best The University of Chicago Economics Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics: Specialization in Business Economics . This program trains students to start successful careers in the economics industry. The program is divided into five components of methods, empirical analysis, perspectives, and electives. A minimum of 4,200 units is required.
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics: Specialization in Data Science . This program will train students in computation and data analysis. It includes fundamentals, core curriculum, empirical methods sequence, computer science, and elective courses. A minimum of 4,200 units is required.
- Master of Arts Program in Social Sciences: Economics . Students who want to attend this program must have prior experience in real analysis, econometrics, linear algebra, probability, statistics, and related fields. Students will take the regular MA courses as well as courses designed specifically for this program.
- Master in Computational Social Science: Economics . Prospective students of this program must have prior experience in probability, linear algebra, econometric theory, and real analysis. They must also have foundations in calculus-based micro and macroeconomics.
- Joint PhD Program in Financial Economics . The program requires students to complete coursework, a comprehensive exam, a core examination, a research paper, workshops, a dissertation proposal, and a doctoral dissertation. The program can be completed in five years.
- PhD in Economics. This program has different fields of specialization, including price theory, labor economics, financial economics, and international economics. Areas of research include development economics and econometrics.
The University of Chicago Economics Key Takeaway
The University of Chicago’s economics department connects students to more than 500 organizations post-graduation, according to the school’s official website. Its students land professional academic, nonacademic, and research positions.
University of Utah
Graduation Rate: 67%
University of Utah is a public university and the flagship institution of the Utah System of Higher Education. Founded in 1950, it offers various programs of study through 18 colleges and schools and 100 departments. It has over 35,000 enrolled students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 18-to-one.
University of Utah Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 95%
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Degreed Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhD
- US News Ranking: #99
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #251-#300
Best University of Utah Economics Programs
- Bachelor’s Degree in Economics: Business Economics and Analytics . This program is designed for students with interests in economics with a mathematical and statistical analysis approach. Students must take at least 48 econ credits.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Economics: Statistical Analysis . This is the second emphasis area of the BS in Economics program. It uses real-world data and statistical software to establish applied econometrics skills. Students must take at least 48 econ credits.
- Online Bachelor of Science in Economics. This program includes core courses, focus areas, electives, and allied credit. Students are required to complete a minimum of 48 credit hours, divided by 36 economics courses, 12 allied courses, and 18 economics credit hours.
- Master of Arts or Master of Science in Economics. This 30-credit program is designed to help students get ready to join the public or private workforce. Its areas of specialization include public finance, environmental economics, industrial organization, and international trade. It must be completed within four years.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Economics . This program prepares professionals in teaching, research, business, and government. It will train students in the theoretical and applied fields of economics. Students will have to complete core courses, seminars, electives, research workshops, and a dissertation. The program can be completed in five years.
University of Utah Economics Key Takeaway
The University of Utah has the highest graduation rate of all public universities in Utah. It also boasts the lowest tuition of the PAC12 and BIG10 institutions.
Yale University
Graduation Rate: 97%
Yale University is a world-renowned private institution and one of the oldest schools nationwide. Founded in 1701, it is an Ivy League institution that offers various undergraduate and graduate degrees online and in-person. It has over 100 departments.
Yale University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 5%
- Accreditation: New England Commission for Higher Education
- Degreed Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhD
- US News Ranking: #5
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #9
Best Yale University Economics Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics . Students are required to take 12 term courses, including classes in microeconomics and macroeconomics. The program requires introductory courses, core courses, field courses, and senior requirements.
- Master of Philosophy in Economics. This program covers microeconomics, macroeconomics, public finance, economic development, and behavioral economics. This degree is awarded to economics PhD students who complete the requirements of their admission to candidacy.
- Master of Arts in Economics. This program is taken by students who are en route to a PhD in Economics. This degree will be awarded to those who have completed at least eight-term graduate courses. Students in the PhD program can also earn this degree if they meet all the requirements.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Economics. This program has a residence requirement, advancement to candidacy, two honors, a qualifying examination, and a dissertation prospectus. The program must be completed within six years.
Yale University Economics Key Takeaway
The economics program is known as the best program that Yale offers as well as the most popular , according to the Yale University website.
The Best Schools for Economics: Types of College Degrees and University Programs Offered
There are different types of college degrees and university programs offered in the best economics colleges. Community college certificates, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, graduate certificates, and doctorates all teach valuable skills in the economics field.
Economics Community College Certificate
An economics community college certificate is a postsecondary certificate awarded after completing a short-term economics program. The program equips students with the skills needed to practice in the field. It will train them to join the workforce soon after graduation and can also be used to upgrade skills.
Economics Associate Degree
An economics associate degree is an undergraduate program awarded after two years of coursework and training. It is typically offered by community colleges but can also be taken at a four-year institution. The purpose of the program is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to find entry-level positions.
The coursework resembles the first two years of a bachelor’s degree program. The credits earned during the program can be transferred to a four-year college for a bachelor’s degree.
Economics Bachelor’s Degree
An economics bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate program that trains students to become professionals in the field. The program typically lasts for four years but may differ based on the learning format and the school. The program introduces students to economic concepts, principles, and major areas of the field.
Typical courses taught include microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and statistics. Students can earn a Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, or Bachelor of Liberal Arts in Economics. Some schools require students to work on a thesis during the last year of the program before graduation.
Economics Master’s Degree
An economics master’s degree is a graduate program that lasts for one to two years. The program is designed to give students advanced knowledge of economics and make them experts in the field. Some programs require students to choose an area of specialization or concentration.
The master’s program typically offers a thesis and non-thesis option. The non-thesis option may require students to complete a capstone project instead. Students can pursue a Master of Arts or Master of Science in Economics.
Economics Graduate Certificate
An economics graduate certificate is a short-term program that provides students with the specialized knowledge and skills required to be experts in the field. They are for professionals who wish to further their education and stay current in the field. Based on multiple factors, the certificate program could take a year or less to earn.
Economics Doctorate
An economics doctorate is the highest level of academic achievement that can be attained in the field. The number of credits required depends on whether you have a bachelor’s or master's degree. The program requires students to complete coursework, seminars, a dissertation, and multiple examinations during the program.
It is designed to prepare students for research and teaching careers. Completion of this program is evidence of your advanced knowledge and expertise in the economics field. The program may take between four to seven years, depending on the program and the student’s determination and focus.
Comparing Popular Degree Options
Best Economics Schools: Other Economics University Rankings
The best economics schools depend on the format and education you wish to pursue. We have created the lists below based on their economics university rankings, degree levels, and the degrees they offer.
Best Online Economics Schools
- Florida International University (FIU). Florida International University is a public research university founded in 1965. It offers over 190 degree programs both online and in-person. According to its website, FIU is ranked highly for having some of the best online programs in the country .
- Oregon State University. Oregon State University (OSU) is a public land-grant research university with over 200 undergraduate and 100 graduate programs. The ecampus offers over 1,600 online classes and has over 110 subjects to study. OSU’s economics department is flexible and allows students to study electives in a wide variety of fields.
- Penn State World Campus. Launched in 1998, Penn State World Campus now offers over 175 degree and certificate programs at the undergraduate to graduate levels. Its economics bachelor’s program is nationally recognized by US News & World Report.
Best Community Colleges for Economics
- Alpena Community College. Founded in 1952, Alpena Community College is a public two-year institution. Its Associate of Arts in Economics is perfect to help students meet their career goals and start working immediately in the field.
- CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College. CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College is a public two-year college founded in 1963. The Associate of Arts in Economics has transfer agreements with Brooklyn College, City College, and Hunter College. The school offers continuing education and workforce development opportunities.
- Salt Lake Community College. This public community college offers associate degree programs in various fields of study through 10 campuses. Its economics associate degree has a special focus on scarcity and satisfying limited wants in society through economics.
Best Undergraduate Schools for Economics
- Boston University. Founded in 1869, Boston University offers over 300 programs of study through 17 schools and colleges. The BA in Economics equips students with the knowledge and skills that can be applied in the real world and make them professionals in the field.
- Harvard University. Harvard University’s economics department offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in the field. Its economic programs are perfect for industry professionals who wish to keep working throughout their studies. They can attend part-time, in person, and online.
- University of Michigan. University of Michigan’s undergraduate program prepares students for the economics industry and trains them to conduct independent research. The school offers events to undergraduate economics students to help them network and find professional opportunities.
Best Graduate Schools for Economics
- Northwestern University. Northwestern University was founded in 1851. This highly-ranked university offers graduate degree programs online and in person. It has over 13,000 graduate students and a student-to-faculty ratio of six-to-one. Its PhD in Economics offers teaching assistantships to help students pay for school.
- University of California, Berkeley. UC Berkeley’s doctorate program is designed for students who want to pursue advanced study and conduct original research in the field.
- University of South Carolina. The University of South Carolina is a public research academic institution that offers a wide range of degree programs. Established in 1801, it offers a Master’s Degree in Economics in five different areas of specialization. It also offers a PhD in the field.
Best Economics Schools With Dual Degree Programs
- Boston University | Master of Business Administration (MBA) / Master of Arts (MA) in Economics Dual Degree Program. The MBA+MA in Economics can be completed in five semesters and requires 80 credit hours. The part-time program requires 71 credit hours.
- John Hopkins University | Master of Business Administration / Master of Science (MS) in Applied Economics. This dual degree can be completed in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. The part-time program can be completed in three years and offers eight areas of specialization.
- Stanford University | Master in Public Policy and PhD in Economics. This is a joint degree program that allows students to earn both a Master’s Degree in Public Policy and a PhD in Economics. Prospective students will have to first apply for the PhD program and indicate their interest in the joint degree program.
Best Schools With Accelerated Economics Programs
- Binghampton University SUNY | Accelerated Degree Program in Economics. Students in this program complete a Bachelor of Science with a Specialization in Economics and a Master of Arts in Economics. Completing the programs simultaneously reduces tuition and program length.
- Oregon State University | Accelerated Master’s Platform in Applied Economics. This program allows students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The bachelor’s degree must be in agricultural and food business management, environmental economics and policy, or a related field.
- The University of Texas at Austin | Master of Arts Economics. This program can be completed in 10 months and does not require an undergraduate degree in economics. Students are expected to have a strong background in quantitative economics.
Easy Colleges to Get Into
Is Graduate School for Economics Worth It?
Yes, graduate school for economics is worth it. A graduate degree in economics will expose you to a higher level of knowledge in the field, increase your career opportunities, and increase your average earnings. To become a professional economist, you will need to have a minimum of a master’s degree in the field.
What Jobs Can You Do With an Economics Degree?
The jobs you can do with an economics degree are financial manager, economist, loan officer, accountant, economic researcher, and data analyst. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for economists is set to increase by 13 percent in the next eight years.
How Much Can I Earn With a Degree in Economics?
The amount you earn with an economics degree depends on your degree level and job title. According to PayScale, someone with an Associate Degree in Economics earns an average of $60,000 per year while a PhD in Economics holder has an average salary of $110,000 .
Highest-Paying Economics Careers
| Profession | Minimum Education | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $131,710 |
| Compensation Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $127,530 |
| Actuary | Bachelor’s degree | $105,900 |
| Economist | Master’s degree | $105,630 |
| Statistician | Master’s degree | $95,570 |
| Management Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $93,000 |
| Product Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $88,660 |
| Quantitative Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $86,159 |
| Financial Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $81,410 |
| Market Research Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $63,920 |
Best Jobs With an Economics Degree
The best jobs with an economics degree are financial manager, compensation manager, actuary, and economist. These high-paying jobs allow students to use all the skills learned in their economics program and make an impact in the field. Below, we will discuss the best jobs in economics for each degree level.
Best Economics Associate Degree Jobs
The best economics associate degree jobs are loan officer, credit analyst, junior cost estimator, assistant economic consultant, assistant financial advisor, and assistant research analyst. These entry-level jobs don’t require advanced knowledge or economics skills and are perfect for those with an associate degree.
Top Economics Careers With an Associate Degree
Best Economics Bachelor’s Degree Jobs
The best economics bachelor’s degree jobs are personal financial advisor , economic consultant, budget analyst, financial manager, compensation manager, and management analyst. These jobs are ideal for bachelor’s degree graduates as they don’t require years of experience or an advanced level of expertise.
Top Economics Careers With a Bachelor’s Degree
Best Economics Master’s Degree Jobs
The best economics master’s degree jobs are statisticians , economists, senior financial analysts, and senior management analysts. Thes jobs require years of experience in the field and a higher level of expertise and skills, as can only be found in master’s degree graduates.
Top Economics Careers With a Master’s Degree
Best Economics Doctorate Jobs
The best economics doctorate jobs are senior economists, senior finance managers, senior compensation managers, economics researchers, and college professors. Graduates can work as the team lead at the department of labor, housing and urban development, or state department.
These jobs are reserved for PhD holders because they require a lot of experience, an advanced level of knowledge, and expertise in the field. These professionals need to make important decisions that could influence the lives of many.
Top Economics Careers With a PhD
Best Internships for Economics Students
Some of the best internships for economics students are at Intel Corporation, Amazon, and Edelman. Economics students can find internships in multiple industries like communications, education, finance, government, manufacturing, and transportation. It is best to apply for these jobs during your bachelor’s or master’s degree program.
Top Economics Internships
How Can I Pay for Economics School?
You can pay for economics school through scholarships, student loans, grants, work-study, and payment plans. Although these financial aid options are extremely helpful, it is still best to find a program within your price range. Compare your schools of choice before making a final decision.
- Scholarships. A scholarship is awarded to students by merit to cover their tuition and/or expenses. It is one of the best ways to pay for college as it doesn’t require students to pay back the amount. Scholarships can be awarded by the institution, government, or private bodies.
- Student loans. A student loan is borrowed money given to students to cover their tuition, books, living expenses, and other costs. It is usually given by the government or private lenders. Students will have to pay back these loans with interest, depending on different factors.
- Grants. A grant is a form of financial aid given to students based on their financial needs. They vary in amount and are given by the government, private institutions, foundations, or individuals. They are gifted and do not need to be paid back.
- Work-study programs. A work-study program is a federal program that pays for a student’s studies in exchange for working for their company. Work-study allows students to work part-time, earn money, and gain work experience that can benefit their careers.
How to Pay for Your Chosen School Education Path
Choosing the Best Economics School for You
To choose the best economics school for you, you should consider the school’s reputation, accreditation, cost, payment options, financial aid, curriculum, and graduation rate. The following factors ensure you get your degree and high-quality education.
School Reputation
Going to a school with a good reputation has many benefits. A reputable school attracts only the best faculty, students, and partners. It also builds the trust and confidence of employers in various industries, which means that you have a competitive edge in the job market against your peers.
Accreditation
It is beneficial to go to a school that offers programs that are accredited in their fields. This ensures that you’re getting a high-quality education. It also means that the school meets the requirements in terms of student outcomes. Employers respect accredited schools and may look down on programs that are not.
Cost
You must ensure that you can afford the tuition of your program. Some programs are more affordable than others, and it is pretty common for prestigious institutions to cost more than others. If you prefer a renowned school but are having issues with cost, you can check for possible financial aid options and payment plans.
Curriculum
The program’s curriculum must include relevant courses, topics, and projects that will build and hone in-demand skills in the field. It must be comprehensive and include new trends and policies to prepare you for a career in the field.
Graduation Rate
The school’s graduation rate is an essential factor as it gives you an insight into how many students complete the program. A school with a high graduation rate shows you that the majority of students in the program graduate at their stipulated time. This shows that the program and your career goals are attainable.
How to Get Into the Right School for Your Profession
Does It Matter What College I Go to for Economics?
Yes, it does matter what college you go to for economics. Going to a college that is not accredited or one that has a bad reputation will not be good for your academic and career goals. You must also consider the specific career path you want and if your program of choice offers the right courses.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
Economics University Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Schools for Economics
We ranked the best economics schools by consulting the university rankings conducted by US News & World Report and Times Higher Education. To further refine our economics university ranking methodology, we gave special consideration to things like reputation, graduation rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and breadth and depth of economics degree program offerings.
Additional Reading About Economics
Best Economics Schools FAQ
The best economics schools in the world are Harvard University, Yale University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Columbia University, and Oregon State University. Of course, you must consider your personal and professional goals when choosing an economics school.
The best Ivy League schools for economics are Harvard University, Columbia University, and Yale University. Other schools that are not Ivy League institutions but offer similar academic and research qualities are Stanford University, Northwestern University, University of California, Berkeley, and Johns Hopkins University.
Yes, MIT is good for economics. Massachusetts Institute of Technology is popularly known for having excellent engineering and technology programs. However, they also have other programs equally as great as STEM programs, and economics is one of them.
Yes, an economics degree is worth it. The annual income is relatively high and its job outlook is set to increase, making the economics field promising. Economics degree holders will have a broad range of career opportunities and high salaries.
