Economics

Department of Economics
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5330 USA
(269) 387-5536

Economics majors

Build analytical skills for careers in business, policy, and data-driven decision-making

Economics helps students understand how individuals, businesses, governments, and societies make choices when resources are limited. As an economics major at Western Michigan University, you’ll develop strong analytical, quantitative, and critical-thinking skills that are valued across a wide range of careers.

The Department of Economics offers three undergraduate economics majors—the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Science (B.S.), and Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.)—allowing you to tailor your degree to your interests and career goals. 

Why Major in Economics?

Economics majors learn how to:

  • Analyze data and make evidence-based decisions
  • Understand markets, incentives, and public policy
  • Apply economic reasoning to real-world problems
  • Communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively

Our graduates pursue careers in business, finance, government, non-profits, consulting, education, and data analysis, as well as graduate and professional programs in economics, business, law, and public policy.

Choose the Economics Major That Fits You

All three majors share a strong foundation in economic theory while offering different emphases.

The B.A. offers flexibility and breadth, making it an excellent choice for students pursuing double majors, minors, or interdisciplinary interests.  Best for students who want:

  • A strong liberal arts foundation
  • Flexibility to combine economics with other fields
  • Preparation for careers or graduate study that value broad analytical skills

The B.S. places greater emphasis on quantitative and analytical methods, making it ideal for students interested in data-driven careers or graduate study in economics or related fields.
Best for students who want:

  • Strong preparation in mathematics and statistics
  • Careers in data analysis, research, or analytics
  • A pathway to graduate study in economics or applied fields

Housed within the business curriculum, the B.B.A. combines economic analysis with core business training.  Best for students who want:

  • A business-oriented degree with economic depth
  • Careers in management, consulting, finance, or industry
  • Applied economic tools within a business framework

All economics majors complete:

  • Core courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics
  • Intermediate theory courses
  • Upper-level electives tailored to student interests

Students may choose electives in areas such as:

  • Data analysis and applied econometrics
  • International and development economics
  • Labor, public policy, and inequality
  • Behavioral and experimental economics
  • Sports, health, and environmental economics

A full list of courses is available on the Economics Courses page.

Economics majors are encouraged to gain hands-on experience through:

  • Internships in business, government, and non-profit organizations
  • Undergraduate research with faculty
  • Applied and data-focused coursework
  • Career-focused advising and mentoring

These experiences help students connect economic theory to real-world decision-making and strengthen their résumés.

Our undergraduate degrees have the following CIP Codes:

  • BA in Economics: 45.0601
  • BS in Economics: 45.0603
  • BBA in Economics: 45.0601

This indicates our BS in Economics major is a STEM-designated major.

Many economics majors explore our Accelerated Master’s Program in Applied Economics, which allows qualified undergraduates to begin earning graduate-level credits while completing their bachelor’s degree. This pathway enables students to complete both degrees in just five years, saving time and tuition compared to the traditional route.

Advising and Next Steps

Our faculty and advisors are committed to helping students plan an academic path that aligns with their interests and goals.

Next steps:

If you’re considering an economics major—or thinking about switching into one—we invite you to connect with us to learn more.