Careers in Economics
Economics is a versatile major that develops students’ critical thinking abilities. Economics teaches a method of thought that is analytical, concise, and rigorous. Students learn to objectively weigh costs and benefits in making decisions. They identify problems, specify potential solutions, and find and analyze data to solve the problems. In addition to developing an economic way of thinking, economics majors study many topics that have implications for management. These include demand theory and estimation, production and cost theory, analysis of market structure, banking, antitrust policy, government finance and regulation, capital budgeting, international economics, and more.
Economics is one of the most popular majors at leading colleges and universities around the country. Economics majors put their problem solving skills to work in a wide range of careers, including
- finance
- banking and investment banking
- management
- consulting
- journalism
- law
- government
- purchasing and sales
Economics also provides a solid foundation for graduate study – an undergraduate degree in economics is well-respected by top graduate programs in business, law, public policy, and medicine, as well as of course graduate programs in economics.
Famous People with Economics Degrees:
Business: Ted Turner, Steve Ballmer (CEO of Microsoft), Diane von Furstenberg (fashion designer), Donald Trump, Warren Buffet, Sam Walton (founder of Wal-Mart).
Politics and Entertainment: George H.W. Bush, Ronal Reagan, Gerald Ford, Arnold Schwarzenegger, John Elway, Bill Belichick, Roger Goodell (NFL Commissioner), Mick Jagger
For more information on careers in economics, try the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos055.htm.