What Can You Do With an Economics Degree?

Academically reviewed by Mr. Thomas Francl
Person sitting at desk in office

Thinking about pursuing an economics degree but wondering what you can do with it. You’re not alone—many students and career changers have the same question. In today’s fast-paced job market, an economics degree can be your ticket to a variety of exciting career paths. You’ll gain analytical and critical thinking skills that employers across a multitude of industries look for. Whether you’re interested in shaping public policy, making business decisions, or analyzing market trends, an economics degree can open the door to many rewarding opportunities. Ready to take the next step in your career or start a new educational journey? Economics might be the perfect choice for you.

Table of Contents

What is Economics?

Economics is a fascinating field that looks at how we produce, distribute, and consume goods and services. Essentially, it’s all about understanding the choices people, businesses, governments, and countries make to allocate resources. From household budgets to global trade policies, economics covers it all. By studying this subject, you’ll learn how markets work, why prices change, and how policies can affect economic stability and growth. It’s a field that helps us make sense of the complex interactions driving the world’s economies and impacts decisions that shape our everyday lives.

Minor in Economics Program Page

Core Skills Gained from an Economics Degree

An economics degree equips you with a toolkit of essential skills that are highly valued by employers. Let’s dive into some of the key abilities you’ll develop:

  • Critical Analysis: You’ll learn to break down complex issues, spot patterns, and understand their underlying factors. This is vital not just in economics, but in any field that requires strategic planning and decision-making. Whether you’re crafting a business strategy or evaluating public policy, critical analysis helps you make informed choices.
  • Data Interpretation: You’ll become skilled at collecting, interpreting, and presenting data. Turning raw numbers into meaningful insights is invaluable in today’s data-driven world. From market research to financial forecasting, data interpretation opens up many opportunities.
  • Strategic Problem-Solving: You’ll learn to tackle problems methodically, considering various factors and outcomes. This skill is useful in many professions, from consulting to project management. It helps you navigate challenges and find effective solutions, making you a valuable asset in any organization.

These skills can make you a strong candidate in many industries outside the sphere of economics. In finance, your analytical skills help assess investments. In healthcare, your problem-solving abilities can improve efficiency. Even in marketing, your knack for data analysis can drive targeted campaigns. 

An economics degree doesn’t limit you to one career; it provides a broad foundation for many paths. By mastering these skills, you’ll be ready to adapt and thrive in any professional environment.

Common Fields for Economics Graduates

With an economics degree, you have a world of career options. Your skills are in high demand across many industries, making you a valuable asset. Whether you want to shape public policies, drive corporate strategies, manage financial risks, or make a difference in social causes, an economics degree can lead to a rewarding career. Let’s look at some common fields where economics graduates really excel.

Economics in Government and Policy

Imagine making decisions that impact millions of lives. In government or policy-related roles, that’s exactly what you can do. As an economics graduate, you might analyze policy proposals, manage public resources, or create economic plans. Your insights could shape how governments spend money and collect taxes, contributing to the nation’s economic health. Whether at the local, state, or federal level, your expertise can help craft smarter, more effective public policies.

Corporate World Economics

In the corporate world, economics graduates are experts in strategic planning and business analysis. Imagine working in tech, healthcare, or finance, helping companies understand market trends, make smart investment decisions, and streamline operations. Your skills in data analysis and strategic thinking can guide businesses toward sustainable growth. Management and consulting roles are also popular, giving you the chance to shape high-level business strategies and operations.

Finance and Banking Economics

The finance and banking sector is full of opportunities for economics graduates. You could get into investment banking, helping companies raise capital and handle mergers and acquisitions. Or maybe financial analysis holds greater appeal for you, assessing investments and offering fiduciary advice. Risk management roles can be another avenue to pursue, as well as identifying and reducing financial risks to protect assets. Your understanding of economic principles and financial markets will be invaluable in these fast-paced environments.

Economics for Nonprofits

If you’re passionate about making a difference, the nonprofit sector has many opportunities for economics graduates. You might conduct economic research, crunching numbers to support your organization’s mission. In program management, you’ll design and oversee projects that address social issues. Financial oversight roles ensure funds are used wisely and transparently. Your analytical skills and dedication to social goals can help spark positive change in communities around the world.

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Career Opportunities for Economics Graduates

Whether you enjoy analyzing data, advising on financial decisions, or teaching the next generation, there’s a path for you in economics. Here’s a look at some of the rewarding careers you can pursue with an economics degree, showcasing how your skills can make a significant impact. (All salary data provided is sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of 2023.)

Research Analyst

As a research analyst, you’ll dive into data to uncover trends that shape business decisions. Your economics background will help you analyze market conditions, understand consumer behavior, and provide valuable insights. If you love solving puzzles and making sense of complex information, this role can offer a rewarding career in a variety of industries. Research analysts earn about $83,640 per year on average, making it a rewarding career choice.

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts help people and businesses make smart financial decisions. You’ll analyze financial data, evaluate investment opportunities, and create reports to guide clients toward their financial goals. With an economics degree, you can step into this role and earn a median salary of $103,020. If you love working with numbers and are interested in financial markets, this profession is for you.

Actuary

Actuaries use math, statistics, and financial theory to determine the costs of risk and uncertainty. They’re key players in the insurance industry, helping companies develop policies that reduce risk and increase profits. As an actuary, you can expect to earn around $125,300 annually. This career is perfect for those who enjoy tackling complex problems and have strong analytical skills.

Accountant

Accountants ensure businesses and individuals keep accurate financial records. You’ll prepare and examine financial statements, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with tax laws. With an economics degree, you can become an accountant and earn a median salary of about $85,640. This role is great for those who are detail-oriented and enjoy working with numbers.

Financial Manager

Financial managers are the strategists behind an organization’s financial health. You’ll create financial reports, direct investment activities, and develop long-term financial goals for your company. With an economics degree, you can become a financial manager and earn a median salary of $131,710. This career is ideal for those with strong leadership qualities and a knack for strategic vision.

Government

Working in government can be very rewarding for economics graduates. You might analyze policies, manage public resources, or plan economic strategies, directly influencing how governments spend money and collect taxes. Economists in government roles earn about $115,730, offering a chance to make a real difference in public policy and community development.

Educator

As an educator, you can inspire future economists by teaching at the college level. Whether you’re teaching economics, business, or finance, you’ll play a crucial role in shaping students’ understanding. Postsecondary teachers earn a median salary of $84,380, and the educational requirements can vary. If you love sharing knowledge and have a passion for teaching, this career is a great fit.

Data Scientist

Data scientists turn data into meaningful insights. You’ll work in various industries, helping organizations make data-driven decisions. With an economics degree, you can become a data scientist and earn a median salary of $142,060. This role is ideal for those who enjoy working with data and have strong problem-solving skills.

Careers with More Experience or Education Needed

For those willing to pursue further education or gain extensive experience, an economics degree can lead to highly specialized and prestigious occupations. These roles often require advanced knowledge and a deeper understanding of economic principles, but they offer substantial rewards and the chance to make a significant impact in your field. Here are some advanced career paths for economics graduates:

Economist

Economists conduct research, analyze data, and evaluate economic issues to provide insights on monetary and fiscal policy. They often work for government agencies, think tanks, or large corporations. With a master’s degree, economists can earn a median salary of $115,730. This career is perfect for those who enjoy exploring complex economic theories and influencing policy decisions.

Policy Analyst

Policy analysts assess and develop policies that address social, economic, and political issues. They use their expertise to evaluate the impact of proposed regulations and recommend solutions to policymakers. With an advanced degree, policy analysts can earn competitive salaries and make a real difference in public policy. This career is great for those who are passionate about shaping public policy and improving societal outcomes.

Portfolio Manager

Portfolio managers oversee investment portfolios for individuals, companies, or institutions, making decisions about asset allocation and investment strategies. They analyze market trends, evaluate investment risks, and work to maximize returns. With extensive experience in finance and economics, portfolio managers can earn high salaries, often exceeding $130,000. This career is a good fit for those with a keen interest in financial markets and investment strategies.

Management Consultant

By examining business challenges and creating strategic solutions, management consultants help organizations improve their performance. They partner with clients across various sectors to optimize operations, lower expenses, and enhance efficiency. With an economics background and significant consulting experience, management consultants can earn substantial salaries and work on diverse and challenging projects. This career is perfect for those who enjoy problem-solving and have strong analytical and interpersonal skills.

Graduation 2020

Educational Pathways and Further Studies

Continuing your education in economics can open even more doors and provide a deeper understanding of the field. Pursuing a master’s degree or specialized certifications can enhance your skills and make you a more competitive candidate in the job market. Here are some options for further education and why continuous learning is so important.

Master’s Programs

Earning a master’s degree in economics or a related field can significantly elevate your career prospects. These programs dive deeper into economic theory, quantitative methods, and specialized topics like international economics or public policy. A master’s degree can prepare you for higher-level positions and more specialized roles, often leading to better pay and greater job satisfaction.

Certifications

In addition to a master’s degree, obtaining certifications can help you stand out. Certifications like the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field. These certifications can pave the way for new career options and show employers that you have the specialized knowledge they’re looking for.

Importance of Continuous Learning

The field of economics is always evolving. New theories, technologies, and global events continually shape the landscape. Staying updated with these changes is important. By participating in workshops, seminars, and online courses, or staying updated with economic news, you can remain at the cutting edge of the field. Continuous learning sharpens your skills and demonstrates to employers your proactive approach and dedication to professional growth. 

Advancing your education and consistently updating your knowledge helps you stay competitive, tackle new challenges, and seize opportunities in the ever-evolving field of economics. Whether through advanced degrees or specialized certifications, investing in your education is a smart move that can pay off in many ways.

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Take the Next Step in Your Economics Career

While National University offers a minor in economics, this foundational knowledge can still be your gateway to a world of exciting and diverse career opportunities. From analyzing market trends and shaping public policy to guiding business decisions and managing investments, the skills you gain from studying economics are highly valued.

If you’re looking to expand your horizons even further, consider pursuing a degree in business or management. National University offers a variety of programs in these fields, each designed to provide you with a robust understanding of key business principles and practices.

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