BA Economics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

American University of Sharjah

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Economics at the American University of Sharjah provides a strong foundation in economic theory and real-world applications, emphasizing analytical thinking and decision-making skills. This program is ideal for students who want to understand how economies work, from markets and growth to finance and public policy, and prepares graduates for careers in business, government, research, or international organizations.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students build a solid foundation with core courses such as Principles of Microeconomics and Principles of Macroeconomics, alongside general education courses that enhance communication, quantitative reasoning, and critical thinking. These courses introduce how markets operate, the forces that shape national economies, and the analytical tools economists use to study economic behavior.

Year 2:
The second year focuses on intermediate and quantitative courses like Intermediate Microeconomics, Intermediate Macroeconomics, and Mathematical Economics. Students develop analytical skills to model consumer and firm behavior, understand macroeconomic dynamics, and apply mathematical methods to economic analysis.

Year 3:
In Year 3, students explore applied and specialized topics such as Economics of Money and Banking, Financial Economics, and electives like Labor Economics or International Economics. These courses allow students to analyze financial markets, evaluate economic policy impacts, and understand global trade and labor issues.

Year 4:
The final year emphasizes advanced study and professional preparation through courses such as Monetary Economics and Econometrics, along with research projects or independent study. Students consolidate their analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills, preparing for careers in government, finance, business, or for graduate studies.

Focus Areas (in a string):

Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Mathematical Economics, Econometrics, Money and Banking, Financial Economics, Public and International Economics.

Learning Outcomes (in a string):

Graduates will be able to apply economic theory and quantitative methods to analyze markets and policy issues, think critically about economic data, communicate complex ideas clearly, and make informed decisions in professional or research settings.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):

The program is offered through AUS’s School of Business Administration, which holds internationally recognized accreditation and adheres to rigorous academic standards, ensuring the degree is respected by employers and academic institutions worldwide.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):

AUS is recognized nationally and internationally for excellence in economics and related fields, providing graduates with strong academic credentials and enhanced employability in the job market.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BA in Economics at American University of Sharjah focuses on analytical thinking, data-driven decision-making, and real-world economic problem-solving. The program emphasizes applied economics through projects, research, and internships, preparing students for careers in business, government, finance, or policy. Students gain hands-on experience using modern economic tools, working on case studies, and participating in collaborative projects with peers.

Here’s how experiential learning is embedded in the program:

Professional Internship Requirement: Students complete a supervised internship in an organization, gaining direct experience applying economic concepts to real-world problems.
Applied Group Projects: Core courses include team-based assignments, case studies, and presentations, developing skills in collaboration, analysis, and professional communication.
Data Analysis and Software Tools: Students learn to use statistical and economic modeling software for research and policy analysis.
Economics Seminars & Workshops: The department hosts guest lectures and seminars where students engage with economic research and contemporary issues.
Research Opportunities: Students can work on faculty-led research projects, exploring topics such as labor economics, international trade, and economic development.
Library and Research Resources: Access to AUS’s extensive library and online databases supports in-depth research and data analysis.
Global and Multicultural Exposure: Students benefit from AUS’s diverse campus environment, gaining insights from international peers and faculty, as well as networking opportunities with industry professionals.

Why Students Choose the BA Economics at AUS

Strong focus on applied and theoretical economics.
Mandatory internship for practical work experience.
Exposure to modern economic research methods and software tools.
Opportunities for collaborative group projects that mirror real workplace scenarios.
Participation in seminars and workshops with industry and academic professionals.
Access to faculty-led research projects and extensive library resources.
Development of analytical, quantitative, and professional skills that prepare students for careers or further study.

This program equips students with the knowledge, practical experience, and analytical skills to succeed in a wide range of careers, making the BA Economics at AUS an excellent choice for students looking to combine rigorous academics with hands-on experience.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates with a BA in Economics from the American University of Sharjah (AUS) develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills that prepare them for careers in business, government, and policy research, as well as for advanced postgraduate study. Common roles include Economic Analyst, Policy Researcher, Market Analyst, and Economic Consultant: these are careers where your ability to interpret economic trends, solve real-world problems, and make data-driven recommendations will set you apart.

Why this degree will boost your career:

Dedicated career support: AUS’s Career Development Center works with students on résumé building, interview preparation, and internship placements, connecting you with professional opportunities before graduation.
Practical understanding of economic issues: The BA in Economics builds deep insight into how consumers, businesses, and governments make decisions — skills that employers value in roles involving policy, research, and strategic planning.
Strong academic foundation: You’ll graduate with solid quantitative and analytical abilities that employers and graduate programs recognise, preparing you for employment in business, public sector, and international organisations.
Quality and recognition: AUS is accredited both locally and internationally, including by the UAE Ministry of Education’s Commission for Academic Accreditation, and its business and economics programs are recognised for excellence, enhancing the long-term value of your degree.
Real-world exposure: The School of Business Administration incorporates experiential learning, including internships and access to professional networking events, to prepare you to hit the ground running in your first job.

Salary outcomes for economics graduates can vary widely by role, industry, and location, but graduates with strong analytical skills — especially those with internships and experience — are well-positioned to pursue competitive starting salaries in sectors like consulting, finance, policy research, and government analysis.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing your BA in Economics, you can continue your academic journey by pursuing:

A Master’s degree in Economics, Public Policy, Finance, International Development, or Data Analytics, either at AUS or at other leading global universities.
Doctoral studies (PhD) if you’re passionate about research or higher-level economic analysis.
Professional certifications (e.g., in data analysis, policy evaluation, or financial economics) to further distinguish yourself in specialised career paths.