Economics Degree Programs

Economics goes beyond numbers. This social science major examines supply and demand, the distribution of goods, and economic decision-making. If you're interested in understanding the economic behavior of individuals, financial markets, and governments, an economics degree could be a good fit.

Learn about different levels of economic degrees to find the one that best fits your strengths and career goals. Our guide introduces the economics degrees you can earn at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

What Is an Econ Major?

Economics (econ) majors investigate the intersection between commerce and society, from microeconomic theory on the psychology of individual purchases to macroeconomic trends shaping global finance. A strong foundation in social science research and applied mathematics allows economics majors to investigate complex economic challenges and policies.

Studying economics can prepare you for a career as a financial analyst, economist, data analyst, or banker. The strong analytical, mathematics, and critical thinking skills you develop during an economics degree can also lead to roles in business, education, the nonprofit sector, and government.

Your degree level shapes the opportunities you can pursue with an economics degree. For example, an associate or bachelor's degree can lead to entry-level careers in banking and finance, while a graduate degree prepares you for research and academic opportunities. Within the broad field of economics, you can specialize in areas such as international economics, public policy, econometrics, or data science.

What Skills Do Economics Programs Teach?

Earning an economics degree develops in-demand skills. For example, econ students learn how to apply economic theories to real-world challenges. They also develop strong economic forecasting and research skills. In addition, economics programs strengthen people-focused soft skills, including the ability to communicate complex economic information clearly.

As a social science degree, economics also encourages critical thinking, research, and collaboration skills that benefit professionals in diverse industries.

What Are the Types of Economics Degrees?

Colleges and universities offer economics degrees at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Your degree level can determine your career options after graduation. This section provides an overview of economics degree types, including the course requirements, time commitment, and career opportunities at each level.

Certificate in Economics

A certificate in economics introduces foundational economic theories and quantitative methods. Students can focus their certificate on areas such as behavioral economics, international economics, business economics, or analytic economics.

Certificate programs require less time than a degree program. Many require 3-4 courses, which students generally complete in less than one year. Unlike many degree programs, certificates typically do not set high admission requirements for applicants. Those who want to explore economics can earn credits in a certificate program that transfer toward an economics degree.

However, the career options with a certificate in economics are limited compared with degree-granting programs.

Associate in Economics

Earning an associate degree in economics builds strong foundational knowledge in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and data analysis. These two-year programs may also incorporate courses in international political economy, behavioral science, statistics, and research methods.

Colleges may offer the following options for an economics degree:

• Associate of Arts (AA)
• Associate of Science (AS)
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
• Associate of Business

Courses and general education requirements may vary depending on the degree type.

Many business, finance, and accounting careers require a bachelor's degree. After earning an associate degree, graduates can transfer into a four-year program and complete their bachelor's in as little as two years.

Bachelor's in Economics

A bachelor's in economics meets the educational requirement to pursue a career as a financial analyst, research analyst, or policy analyst. During an economics major, you'll strengthen statistics, finance, and mathematics skills, with an emphasis on economics theory and applications. Many programs incorporate an internship or other hands-on learning opportunities.

The most common degree types for a bachelor's in economics include:

• Bachelor of Arts
• Bachelor of Science

While both a BA and BS incorporate similar major courses, BS programs typically require additional mathematics and quantitative courses. A BS provides strong preparation for graduate programs in economics.

Master's in Economics

A master's in economics develops advanced skills in economic forecasting, econometrics, economic policy, and data science. Master's students can specialize their degree in areas such as health economics, behavioral economics, applied economics, or financial economics.

With a master's in economics, graduates pursue opportunities as economists, financial managers, data scientists, and economics teachers. These programs typically take two years for full-time students.

The most common types of master's programs in economics include:

• Master of Arts
• Master of Science
• MBA in Economics

Teaching-focused economics programs typically award an MA, while research-focused programs offer an MS. For example, economists typically hold an MS, while high school economics teachers hold an MA.

Doctorate in Economics

A doctorate in economics is the highest degree in the field. At the doctoral level, economics students typically earn either a Ph.D. or a doctor of business administration (DBA) in economics. A Ph.D. emphasizes theory and research, preparing graduates for academic roles. In contrast, a DBA emphasizes practice and the skills necessary for leadership roles in business.

Ph.D. students complete coursework, pass qualifying exams, and write a doctoral dissertation in their specialty area. DBA students complete courses and an applied research project. Earning a Ph.D. typically takes 5-7 years, while a DBA takes around three years.

Is Economics Better As an Undergrad or Graduate Degree?

When deciding which type of economics degree to earn, consider your career goals, interests, and prior experience.

Studying economics at the undergraduate level has several advantages. You can qualify for many high-paying business and finance jobs with a bachelor's in economics. Compared with other accounting and business majors, economics also develops strong theoretical and mathematical skills. Economics majors can also apply to graduate programs in business, law, the social sciences, and diverse other areas.

If you majored in a non-economics field, pursuing a master's in economics can help you expand your skills or move into a new specialization. A master's in economics also appeals to those interested in a career as an economist, because you'll need a master's or higher for most of these roles. If you're interested in becoming a professor, you'll need a doctorate for most tenure-track roles.

Common Questions About Economics Degrees