What Can You Do With A College Degree in Economics?

Studying economics opens up a multitude of career opportunities that span across various industries. Whether you choose to work in finance, government, consulting, or research, the skills you acquire during your studies—such as analytical thinking, quantitative analysis, and understanding market dynamics—can be applied to nearly any field.

Diverse Career Opportunities for Economics Graduates

Economics graduates have the advantage of choosing from a wide range of career paths. Here are some of the most common options:

Finance and Banking

Many economics graduates pursue roles in finance sectors like investment banking, financial analysis, and risk management. The ability to analyze financial data and market trends is particularly valued in these roles.

Government and Public Policy

Graduates can enter public service, working for government agencies or think tanks to analyze economic data and formulate policies. This field requires a deep understanding of economic principles and the ability to apply them to real-world issues.

Consulting

Economic consulting firms hire graduates to provide insights on market trends, economic impacts, and strategic decision-making. Analytical skills and the ability to understand complex economic systems are key in these roles.

Research and Academia

For those interested in further education, a master’s or PhD in economics can lead to research positions or teaching roles in academic institutions. These roles involve contributing to academic literature and teaching the next generation of economists.

Nonprofit Sector

Graduates can work with NGOs or international organizations, focusing on economic development and social issues. The ability to analyze and address complex societal challenges is crucial in this field.

Business and Management

The foundational skills gained in economics, such as understanding market dynamics and quantitative analysis, are highly applicable in roles such as management, marketing, and operations across various industries.

Personal Insights from an Economics Graduate

I have had a unique journey, earning a master’s and PhD in economics, transitioning from academia to high tech, then moving into educational technology. My friend, also an economics graduate, and I both believe that economics is an excellent background degree. We suggest adding a minor in computer science to expand your career opportunities.

One of the best ways to leverage an economics degree is to identify how you can add value to a company. By focusing on innovative and creative solutions, you can apply economics to virtually any industry. Here are some industries where economics can be a valuable asset:

Pharmaceuticals Healthcare related fields Actuarial science Economic policy Non-profits Agriculture Sustainability Mining Petroleum Trading/Finance/Banking Statistics Data science

Studying economics provides a solid foundation for a diverse range of careers. Whether you pursue further education or enter the workforce directly, the skills you develop can lead to rewarding and fulfilling paths. I do not regret my first degree, and I am confident that the knowledge and experience I gained will be useful in my future endeavors in educational technology and beyond.