BA Economics-Philosophy

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Columbia University

Program Overview

A multidisciplinary major combining rigorous economics with formal philosophy. Suited to students pursuing graduate study or careers in ethics, law, policy, or academia.

Curriculum Structure

Years 1–2: Core Foundations

  • Introductory and Intermediate Microeconomics & Macroeconomics

  • Multivariable Calculus and introductory probability/statistics

  • Introductory Logic, Ethics, or Epistemology courses

Years 3–4: Advanced Intersections

  • Advanced Microeconomic Theory & Econometrics

  • Upper-level Philosophy courses in Logic, Ethics, or Philosophy of Science

  • Senior Seminar or Thesis in normative or formal economic-philosophical analysis

Focus Areas

  • Formal Logic & Economic Reasoning

  • Normative Ethics & Policy

  • Economic Theory with Philosophical Foundations

  • Epistemology of Economic Knowledge

Learning Outcomes

  • Ability to construct and critique formal arguments

  • Analytical skills in both normative philosophy and positive economics

  • Preparation for law school, ethics-focused graduate study, or academia

Accreditation & Reputation
Offered through Columbia College’s Economics and Philosophy Departments. Esteemed for its intellectual rigor and interdisciplinary depth.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

  • Undergraduate Research Assistantships: Collaborate with faculty on research projects, gaining hands-on experience in data analysis and economic modeling.
  • Summer Research Internship at Columbia Business School: A selective program allowing students to work on research projects in finance, economics, and related fields under faculty guidance.

  • Internship Opportunities: Regular postings of internship positions enable practical experience in economic policy and related areas.

  • Program for Economic Research (PER): Supports faculty and student research initiatives with resources and assistance.

  • Undergraduate Research & Fellowships (URF): Platform for students to find research projects across disciplines.

  • Centre for Career Education (CCE): Provides resources for internships, career fairs, and mentorship programs.

These opportunities enhance academic experience by providing practical skills and real-world insights

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Columbia’s BA in Economics-Philosophy program are well-prepared for careers such as:

  • Economic Consultant

  • Financial Analyst

  • Data Scientist

  • Policy Advisor

These roles span finance, consulting, technology, and government sectors.


Career Support:

  • Columbia’s Center for Career Education (CCE) offers personalized advising, workshops, and access to a vast alumni network for career development.

  • Economics graduates report a median starting salary of approximately $83,000, significantly above the national average.

  • Strong university-industry partnerships facilitate internships and job placements.

  • The program’s long-term accreditation and Nobel laureate association enhance its prestige.

  • Alumni progress to influential roles and prestigious graduate programs worldwide.


Further Academic Progression:

Common pathways include graduate studies in economics, public policy, business administration (MBA), law (JD), or PhD programs at leading universities such as Harvard, Stanford, and LSE. The program’s strong foundation supports both immediate employment and academic advancement.

Program Key Stats

$118152 (Annual cost)
$ 85



7 %
No
No

Eligibility Criteria

AAA - A*A*A
3.5 - 4.0
38 - 42
90 - 95

1510 - 1580
34 - 35
7.5
105

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Ethics and Compliance Analyst – Guide corporate or public organizations on ethical decision-making and regulation
  • Policy Advisor – Provide normative insights and economic evaluations for legislation or international policy
  • Think Tank Researcher – Produce philosophical and economic policy briefs on social justice or governance
  • Legal Analyst – Use logical reasoning and economic rationale in legal or constitutional research
  • Academic Researcher – Pursue graduate study and contribute to interdisciplinary economic-philosophical work

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