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100%
of economics graduates are working or continuing their education
92%
of graduates say their education and experiences at Western prepared them for their profession
98%
of Broncos had instructors who made them excited about learning
Pursue a B.S. in economics
Economics gives you a powerful framework for understanding how people, businesses and governments make decisions. In WMU’s B.S. in economics program, you’ll pair that way of thinking with a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics and quantitative analysis.
You’ll learn how to use economic models and data to investigate real-world questions, evaluate competing explanations and communicate evidence-based conclusions. Upper-level coursework allows you to explore areas such as data analysis and econometrics, international economics, labor markets, public policy, behavioral economics, health economics and other applied fields.
The result is a degree that develops both analytical depth and flexibility—preparing you for careers in which data and decision-making matter as well as advanced study in economics, applied economics, public policy, business and related quantitative fields.
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. This major is great 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
What you'll learn
As a B.S. in economics student, you’ll build a strong foundation in microeconomics and macroeconomics while developing the mathematical and statistical tools needed for advanced economic analysis. You’ll learn how economists use data and models to study markets, evaluate policies, forecast outcomes and understand how incentives influence decisions.
Through your coursework, you’ll strengthen your ability to analyze quantitative information, identify patterns in data, assess evidence and communicate your findings clearly. You can also tailor your upper-level economics courses to areas that match your interests and career goals.
By graduation, you’ll be prepared to:
- Analyze economic and other quantitative data.
- Apply economic models to real-world problems.
- Evaluate business decisions and public policies using evidence.
- Use statistical and econometric methods to investigate economic relationships.
- Communicate complex quantitative ideas clearly.
- Approach unfamiliar problems with structured, analytical thinking.
Student Quote
“The B.S. in economics gave me more than an understanding of how the economy works. It taught me how to work with data, think analytically, and approach complex problems. Those skills prepared me for opportunities after graduation and gave me a strong foundation for the next step in my career.”
Where you'll be after graduation
Economics is one of the most versatile analytical degrees you can earn. The combination of economic reasoning, quantitative analysis and problem-solving developed in the B.S. program can prepare you for opportunities across the private, public and nonprofit sectors.
Career paths can include positions such as:
- Data or business analyst
- Economic analyst
- Financial or credit analyst
- Market research analyst
- Pricing or forecasting analyst
- Risk analyst
- Research analyst
- Consultant
- Policy analyst
- International trade specialist
- Economist
- Financial planner or analyst
Economics graduates work in fields including banking and finance, insurance, consulting, manufacturing, technology, government, health care, real estate, market research and public policy.
Your economics degree can also provide excellent preparation for graduate programs in economics, applied economics, data analytics, public policy, business and related fields, as well as professional programs such as law.
WMU Career and Student Employment Services can help you explore career paths, find internships and jobs, prepare application materials, practice interviewing and connect with employers throughout your undergraduate experience.
What others have achieved
Turning economics and data into a career
A BS in economics '20 used the quantitative and analytical skills developed through WMU’s B.S. in Economics program to first attend the London School of Economics for her MSC in International Health Policy, and then launch a career as a Research Associate with Evidera (Tacoma, WA). Coursework in economics, statistics and data analysis helped prepare [him/her/them] to analyze complex information, solve problems and communicate results in a professional setting.
From undergraduate economics to graduate study
After completing the B.S. in economics, a student (BS economics '22) continued her education in public policy at Carnegie Mellon University. The mathematical, statistical, and economic training built into the B.S. provided a strong foundation for advanced study and research.
Putting economics to work before graduation
- As an undergraduate, a recent student (BS economics '24) applied economics beyond the classroom through her honors thesis on high-speed rail systems. The experience provided an opportunity to use economic reasoning and data analysis to examine real-world questions while preparing for a career in data analytics and economic development.
Making the most of your learning experience
Your economics education extends beyond the classroom. Students are encouraged to pursue internships and other applied experiences that allow them to use economic reasoning and data analysis in business, government and nonprofit settings.
You can also become involved with the Economics Student Association, where students discuss current economic issues, connect with other economics students and interact with visiting scholars. Department lectures, research opportunities and other events provide additional ways to explore economics outside your regular coursework and build relationships with faculty.
Together, these experiences help you translate what you learn in class into skills you can demonstrate to employers and graduate programs.
Fast-track your learning with an accelerated master's
What scholarships are available for an economics degree?
Yes. WMU students have access to university, College of Arts and Sciences and Department of Economics scholarship opportunities.
The Department of Economics offers undergraduate awards recognizing outstanding economics students, including the Werner Sichel Undergraduate Prize and the Bill Monroe Scholarship. Students in the Accelerated M.A. in Applied Economics program may also be eligible for the Mark V. Wheeler Memorial Scholarship.
WMU’s financial aid and scholarship resources can help you identify additional opportunities based on academic achievement, financial need and other criteria.
We also help support our students who choose to include economics-related courses in their study abroad experiences. Contact the department for more details.
Frequently asked questions
Other degrees of interest
B.A. in economics
B.S. in mathematics
Pre-law
