Economics
Study how individuals, businesses, and governments make decisions in a world of limited resources.
Economics explores how markets function, how policies affect communities, and how data can be used to better understand social and economic challenges. Students learn to think analytically, interpret evidence, and apply economic reasoning to real-world issues.
To earn your bachelor’s degree in Economics, you will:
- Examine how individual choices and institutional decisions shape economic outcomes.
- Develop quantitative and data analysis skills using statistical and economic tools.
- Interpret trends and evaluate the impact of public policy, business strategy, and economic change.
- Strengthen research, communication, and critical thinking skills applicable across many professions.
At A Glance
-
12:1Student-to-faculty ratio
-
18Average class size
Possible Careers
Study how individuals, businesses, and governments make decisions in a world of limited resources.
Economics explores how markets function, how policies affect communities, and how data can be used to better understand social and economic challenges. Students learn to think analytically, interpret evidence, and apply economic reasoning to real-world issues.
To earn your bachelor’s degree in Economics, you will:
- Examine how individual choices and institutional decisions shape economic outcomes.
- Develop quantitative and data analysis skills using statistical and economic tools.
- Interpret trends and evaluate the impact of public policy, business strategy, and economic change.
- Strengthen research, communication, and critical thinking skills applicable across many professions.
The Economics major is ideal for students interested in understanding how individuals, businesses, and governments make decisions—and how those decisions shape the world around us. Through the program, students develop strong analytical, critical thinking, and data analysis skills that translate across a wide range of careers.
Opportunities to collaborate with faculty as research assistants provide valuable hands-on experience, helping students refine their skills and build a strong professional portfolio.
Economics is a great fit for students who enjoy problem-solving and are seeking a versatile degree. Graduates go on to careers in consulting, business, public policy, and research, with many also choosing to pursue graduate or professional studies.
Explore
Student & Alumni Spotlights
No one describes the Alma experience better than those living it. Explore their stories, in their own words, below.
I love the economics program because of who is in it — a small group of dedicated faculty who want to see you succeed. Whether it was in supporting my lofty goals of taking on an internationally based internship or finding the best mentor for my senior thesis, they always work as hard as they can to make sure you as a student are taken care of and succeeding academically.
I truly feel like it wasn't just my major, it was my whole Alma education that serves me so well in my career.
I love the economics program because of who is in it — a small group of dedicated faculty who want to see you succeed. Whether it was in supporting my lofty goals of taking on an internationally based internship or finding the best mentor for my senior thesis, they always work as hard as they can to make sure you as a student are taken care of and succeeding academically.
I truly feel like it wasn't just my major, it was my whole Alma education that serves me so well in my career.
Get to Know Economics
Meet the Faculty
Professional Development
As an economics major, you'll be encouraged to participate in an internship that provides valuable industry experience. Find out more about career support at Alma.
Explore the Curriculum
Learn more about the fundamental courses that will offer a roadmap for your academic growth and expertise development.
Where theory meets practice.
Economics is about more than just money. It impacts almost every aspect of our society — from crime, marriage and divorce to health, addiction and voting behavior. At Alma, you’ll pursue a comprehensive education that acknowledges these interdisciplinary connections.
You’ll take introductory courses in micro- and macroeconomics and delve into the history of the field. You’ll explore money and capital markets, public finance, economic development, labor economics and international trade and markets. We also recommend taking electives from other areas, such as computer science, business and philosophy.
You’ll learn through doing, too. Most economics majors complete a four-credit internship before they graduate. You can also undertake an independent study, where you’ll design a practical project with the guidance of a faculty mentor.
What You Need to Know
>We designed our curriculum to prepare you to progress to graduate school or enter the workforce directly. Our alumni have gone on to leading economics, law and business programs. Others have built careers in high-paying industries like business, finance and accounting.
You’ll enjoy excellent earning potential, too. A recent study found that majoring in economics could boost a college graduate’s early career income by more than $20,000. And in 2021, the median salary for an economist was $105,630 — more than double the national average.
Get Connected
Student Organizations
At Alma, you’ll find opportunities to grow at every turn. In our 100+ student organizations, you can get outside your comfort zone, make new friends and hone your leadership skills.
