If you love finance, business, statistics, and data, then a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics might be a great educational option for you. Read our article to find the top economics bachelor’s degree programs offered both online and in-person. We will also cover the best jobs and average salaries you can get with the best economics bachelor’s degrees.
What Is Economics?
Economics is a social science with two branches, macro and microeconomics, that deals with overall economic phenomena and individual economic choices. Macroeconomics studies economic variables including GDP, currency inflation, unemployment rate, and market trends to forecast national and international economic conditions.
Microeconomics examines the impact of individual or business economic choices including product prices, and resource allocation on financial and business conditions. Both branches use tools such as statistics, consumer behavior analysis, and data analysis to draw conclusions about quantitative and behavioral economic patterns.
An economics major can become an economic policy advisor, management consultant, or market research analyst, depending on their interests. This field offers a wide range of career opportunities across government agencies and the private sector, including IT, agriculture, and healthcare.
Where Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics?
The best colleges where you can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics are accredited, US institutions with excellent reputations. Below you’ll find a sneak peek at five of the schools on our list for where to get an economics bachelor’s degree.
What Schools Offer the Best Economics Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Boston University
- Columbia University
- Harvard University
- Stanford University
- Yale University
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics?
The admission requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics program are a high school diploma or equivalent, a certain GPA, and to submit an application, essay, or letter of recommendation.
Economics Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
- Minimum GPA
- Application form
- Personal essay
- Letter of recommendation
How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics
You can get an economics bachelor’s degree by fulfilling the degree requirements. The educational requirements for an economics bachelor’s degree will vary depending on the university and the degree program.
Typically, the standard subject requirements include maths, macroeconomics, microeconomics, statistics, and finance. You will also need to take general courses and higher-level economic elective courses to meet your major requirements.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics?
You need approximately 120 credits for a Bachelor’s in Economics degree. How many credits you need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics will vary depending on the school, with some schools requiring more.
Economics Degree Requirements
- Mathematics courses
- Macro and microeconomics courses
- Statistics and finance courses
- At least 120 credits
- Minimum GPA
Best Economics Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Boston University | Bachelor of Arts in Economics | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Carnegie Mellon University | Bachelor of Science in Economics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Columbia University | Bachelor’s Degree in Economics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Harvard University | Bachelor’s Degree in Economics | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Johns Hopkins University | Bachelor of Arts in Economics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Economics | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Northwestern University | Bachelor of Arts in Economics | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Stanford University | Bachelor of Arts in Economics | Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges |
| University of California, Berkeley | Bachelor of Arts in Economics | Western Association of Schools and Colleges |
| Yale University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Economics | New England Commission of Higher Education |
Best Schools for Economics: Top Economics Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The best schools for economics bachelor’s degrees should suit your financial, location, and curriculum preferences. Read below to find our list of the top economics bachelor’s degree programs.
Best Online Economics Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Economics | Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools |
| Colorado State University | Bachelor of Arts in Economics | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Eastern Oregon University | Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Economics | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Liberty University | Bachelor of Science in Economics and Business Administration | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Northwestern University | Bachelor of Arts in Economics | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Pennsylvania State University | Bachelor of Science in Economics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Massachusetts | Bachelor of Arts in Economics | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Utah State University | Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Economics | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Washington State University | Bachelor of Science in Economic Sciences | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| West Texas A&M University | Bachelors of Business Administration in Economics, Law and Economics Specialization | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Best Colleges for Economics: Top Online Economics Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Read below to find the top online bachelor’s degree programs in economics. You can choose the online program that suits your career goals, financial situation, and learning preferences.
What Is an Economics Bachelor’s Degree?
An economics bachelor’s degree is a four-year undergraduate program that covers social sciences, business, finance, math, and statistics topics. The primary curriculum includes financial economics, international relations, economic issues, and quantitative economics.
Upon completion of the program, Bachelor’s of Economics graduates have an in-depth understanding of analytical methods, national and international economic trends, consumer demand, and market analysis.
How Important Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics?
It is very important to have a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics because it allows you to break into the industry in entry-level or mid-level job positions, depending on your experience level and any additional credentials.
The main reasons why an economics bachelor’s degree is important are:
- Job eligibility
- Higher earning potential
- Fundamental knowledge of industry standards and practices
- Continuing education via certificate programs or a master’s degree
What Types of Bachelor’s Degree Can You Get in Economics?
The types of bachelor’s degrees for economics you can get include a Bachelor of Science, a Bachelor of Art, and a Bachelor of Business Administration. Each of these economics bachelor’s degree types holds its own benefits and provides the education needed to be successful.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics?
It is better to get a Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics because it teaches the fundamentals of economics, finance, accounting, and business management and administration.
Although both degrees offer excellent education, if you find yourself wondering which is better, a Bachelor of Science in Economics or a Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics, try to find a business administration degree.
What Is the Difference Between an Economics Bachelor’s Degree and an Economics Certificate?
The main difference between an economics bachelor’s degree and a certificate in economics is that a certificate provides additional proof to potential employers that you are competent in economics.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Economics provides the fundamental skills, knowledge, and expertise to be successful in entry-level roles. An economics certificate can improve earning potential by showing employers you are more experienced and knowledgeable than bachelor’s degree holders. You can take a certificate program in a specific area if you wish to focus on a concentration in economics.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics?
An economics bachelor’s degree costs $16,647 per year for tuition and required fees at a four-year institution, according to National Center for Education Statistics. The average cost of a bachelor’s degree in economics depends on whether or not your school is private or public or for-profit or non-profit.
The economics bachelor’s degree cost for a private, non-profit institution is $35,807, while a public university costs $9,349 per year for a four-year institution. Be sure to review the tuition cost for your chosen university.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Economics Bachelor’s Degree?
It takes approximately four years to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics. Prospective students should be prepared to complete at least 120 credit hours for an economics bachelor’s degree program. The credit hours will vary depending on the school.
How Hard Is It to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics?
A Bachelor’s Degree in Economics is not very hard to get if you have a passion for mathematics, finances, money itself, and solving economic problems in society or businesses. Students seeking to obtain this degree should be well-versed in mathematics to make the degree-earning process smoother.
Why Should You Get an Economics Bachelor’s Degree?
The benefits of getting a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics are that you can get a high-paying job in many industries, including business, finance, research, and information technology. Getting an economics bachelor’s degree prepares you for real-world scenarios you will encounter in the field and teaches you problem-solving skills and the technical methods to overcome them.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Bachelor’s Degree Program in Economics?
The required courses for economics bachelor’s degrees are fundamental economics concepts and processes to help with a foundational understanding of what economics is and how to effectively be an economist. Below you’ll find some of the economics courses for a bachelor’s degree in this subject.
Macroeconomics
In this course students learn why there are variances in monetary stability between not just people, but countries. Students gain an understanding of what money is, why people are taxed more, and why certain countries are poorer than others.
Microeconomics
A microeconomics course teaches students how economists make decisions on behalf of governments, individuals, and firms. Expect to learn how to make decisions regarding trade-offs like resources, money, and land.
Data Science and Economics
Here, students learn the fundamentals of data analysis, statistics, and modeling regarding economics. Students learn how to solve real-world economic problems by analyzing and diagnosing such problems.
Econometrics
An econometrics course teaches students how to use real-world, uncontrolled data and make decisions using such data. Data analysis is a crucial aspect of econometrics so be prepared to explore advanced data analysis to overcome econometrics and business challenges.
Economist Communication
It is crucial for any recent undergraduate entering the economics field to understand the language and be able to communicate with industry professionals effectively. Students learn how to listen to industry issues, communicate, and conduct proper audience analysis.
Continuing Education Paths for Economics Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
The best path to take with an economics bachelor’s degree is to get a Master’s Degree in Economics. A master’s degree teaches mastery-level skills that provide you with more job opportunities and earning potential.
Related Economics Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Economics Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The best economics bachelor’s degree programs have few barriers to admission, excellent reputation, accreditation, high graduation rates, and affordable tuition. This section explains what to look for in a college for a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics.
Graduation Rate
Taking note of the graduation rate of an institution should be at the top of your list of priorities. The graduation rate indicates what percentage of students successfully complete their program at the school. Universities with a high graduation rate mean you have a better chance of completing your program successfully.
Barriers to Admission
Some schools have more admissions requirements than others, meaning it can be more challenging to be enrolled. Review the admissions requirements of the institution and ensure you meet the minimum requirements for the easiest path to admission.
Accreditation
Accreditation from a third-party organization assures that a university or college upholds certain standards of education and academia. Choose a school with accreditation from a reputable accrediting organization to ensure you receive the best education possible.
Cost
The cost of tuition of a school can be a deciding factor when choosing a school. Some schools’ tuition can be expensive and create a burden for students. Select a school with a tuition that is either affordable or that is primarily covered by financial aid or scholarships.
Faculty Credentials and School Reputation
Determine whether or not the school, program, and faculty members have a good reputation amongst alumni. Find out the credentials program professors hold and what former students think of both the school and the program.
What Is the Most Affordable Economics Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable Bachelor’s Degree in Economics can be obtained from the University of California, Berkeley which has a tuition and fees rate of $14,254 per year for in-state students plus supplemental tuition of $29,754 per year for out-of-state students. Although this is still a costly program, it is much cheaper than other schools listed in this article.
Salary and Job Outlook for Economics Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Economics bachelor’s degree jobs have high earning potential, and you can see yourself working in information technology, business, finance, and research industries. Find out what the top 10 best-paying Bachelor’s Degree in Economics jobs are and the Bachelor’s in Economics salary you can earn with this degree.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Economics Bachelor’s Degree?
It is not very hard to get a job with an economics bachelor’s degree if you are applying to entry-level jobs. Entry-level jobs are typically geared towards bachelor’s degree graduates. If you want higher earning potential though, then it will be hard to earn a higher-paying job with just a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics. Consider pursuing a master’s degree in the subject.
What’s the Average Economics Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics is $70,994 per year in the United States. The average salary for Bachelor’s Degree in Economics graduates will vary based on location, so it is best to check the average salary in your hometown.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With an Economics Bachelor’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an economics bachelor’s degree are analyst jobs, banking and financial advisory jobs, and business and marketing-related roles. Below are five of the highest-paying economics jobs for bachelor’s degree holders that are further explained in our comprehensive list of jobs for economics bachelor’s degree grads.
Economics Degree Jobs
- Economist
- Personal Financial Advisor
- Investment Banker
- Financial Analyst
- Budget Analyst
Potential Careers With an Economics Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics?
You can make between $58,914 to $105,630 per year with a Bachelor’s in Economics degree. The average money that economics majors make out of college will vary based on the position you are hired for, the state in which you work, and your experience in the field. Below you will find the highest-paying states for each job.
Highest-Paying Economics Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Economics Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Economist | $105,630 |
| Personal Financial Advisor | $94,170 |
| Investment Banker | $82,561 |
| Financial Analyst | $81,410 |
| Budget Analyst | $79,940 |
| Accountant | $77,250 |
| Data Analyst | $69,343 |
| Market Research Analyst | $63,920 |
| Business Reporter | $61,862 |
| Auditor | $58,914 |
Best Jobs for Economics Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for economics bachelor’s degree grads are those with a high salary, positive job outlook, and fit within your career interests. Below is a list of some of the best paying economics bachelor’s jobs you can get.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics Worth It?
Yes, a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics is worth it if you wish to pursue a career as an economist, business manager, financial manager, financial analyst, or auditor. This undergraduate economics degree helps you break into several fields including journalism, finance, agriculture, political science, and IT.
You can get your economics bachelor’s degree from highly reputable, accredited United States schools like Harvard University, Stanford University, and Yale University. Simply follow the application process, ensure you meet the minimum requirements for admissions, and fulfill the degree requirements for graduation.
Additional Reading About Economics
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Economics Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
You can find both Bachelor of Science in Economics and Bachelor of Arts in Economics, depending on the university. The main difference will be whether the coursework focuses on a specialized, science-based curriculum or a more general, liberal arts curriculum.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary of an economist with a bachelor’s degree is $108,350.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Economics can help set you on a wide variety of career tracks, including economic consultant, financial analyst, statistical analyst, accountant, and investment banker.
Some of the best economics bachelor’s degree colleges include Columbia University, Penn State University, Harvard University, and Yale University.
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