1. Iowa State University
  2. Program
  3. Bachelors
  4. Bachelor of Science in Economics

Bachelor of Science in Economics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Iowa State University

Program Overview

Iowa State’s BS in Economics program offers a strong quantitative and analytical foundation, focusing on economic theory, econometrics, and data-driven decision-making. It prepares students for technical roles in research, finance, and policy analysis.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Foundations in Economics & Math
Students begin with introductory courses in micro and macroeconomics, coupled with calculus and statistics to establish a quantitative base.

Year 2: Intermediate Economic Theory & Statistics
Core courses deepen theoretical knowledge in micro and macroeconomics, alongside applied statistics and econometrics.

Year 3: Advanced Econometrics & Specializations
Students focus on advanced econometric methods and may choose electives in areas like agricultural economics, public policy, or international economics.

Year 4: Capstone & Research Opportunities
The final year includes electives tailored to student interests and often involves independent research or a senior project.

Focus Areas:
Econometrics, Agricultural Economics, Public Policy, International Economics

Learning Outcomes:
Graduates develop expertise in quantitative analysis, economic modeling, and policy evaluation, ready for data-intensive roles.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
Iowa State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and recognized for its research-intensive programs.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):
The program’s STEM emphasis and strong ties to government and industry sectors offer graduates competitive advantages in the job market.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Iowa State's economics program integrates experiential learning through internships, research projects, and community engagement. Students develop skills applicable to various economic sectors.

Key Experiential Learning Opportunities:

  • Internships: Opportunities to gain practical experience in economics-related fields.

  • Research Projects: Collaborate with faculty on economic studies and analyses.

  • Community Engagement: Participate in projects that address economic issues within the community.

  • Workshops and Seminars: Attend events to enhance understanding of economic theories and practices.

  • Career Services: Utilize Iowa State's career services for job placement and networking.

 

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Iowa State’s BS in Economics program are well-prepared for careers in data analytics, financial analysis, economic consulting, and policy evaluation. With a strong STEM foundation and hands-on quantitative training, students stand out in both the private and public sectors.

Here’s how Iowa State helps set you up for long-term success:

  • Career Services: The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Career Services offers tailored job search support, employer events, and internship placements specifically for economics students.

  • Employment Stats: Roughly 90% of ISU economics graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months; the average starting salary is around $61,000, with higher figures for those in analytical roles.

  • University–Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with organizations such as the USDA, Iowa Department of Revenue, and firms in the Des Moines financial sector lead to internships and career opportunities.

  • Accreditation: Iowa State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and designated as an R1 research university, giving its degrees strong national recognition.

  • Graduate Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to work in economic research labs, government agencies, agricultural finance, and international development organizations.

Further Academic Progression:
BS graduates are ideally positioned for master’s or doctoral programs in economics, agricultural economics, data science, or public policy. Many stay at ISU for graduate work, benefiting from faculty research connections and assistantships.

Program Key Stats

$24480 (Annual cost)
$ 65
Sept Intake : 21st Jul


87 %

Eligibility Criteria

ABB - BBB
3.0 - 3.5
27 - 30
75 - 80

1200 - 1300
25 - 28
6.0
71

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Economist – Analyze economic data and trends to advise government agencies private corporations or consulting firms on policy markets or business strategy
  • Investment Banking Analyst – Support capital raising mergers and acquisitions and financial transactions by building detailed financial models and conducting valuations at investment banks
  • Data Analyst or Data Scientist – Use programming languages like Python R and SQL and statistical techniques to analyze large datasets and provide actionable insights for business or policy decisions
  • Actuary – Combine economics statistics and mathematics to assess and manage financial risks for insurance companies pension funds and financial service firms
  • Management Consultant – Advise organizations across industries on operational efficiency market entry and strategic challenges to improve overall performance
  • Financial Analyst – Evaluate company financial statements market conditions and investment opportunities to guide corporate finance portfolio management or banking decisions
  • Policy Analyst – Research and assess public policies related to economics labor health or education for think tanks NGOs or government agencies
  • Quantitative Analyst or Econometrician – Apply advanced quantitative methods and econometric models to forecast economic outcomes and guide investment or policy decisions
  • Certified Public Accountant CPA – Provide auditing tax planning and financial consulting services combine economic understanding with regulatory compliance in accounting firms or corporations
  • Economic Researcher – Conduct academic or applied research for universities government bodies like the Federal Reserve or Bureau of Labor Statistics or international organizations
  • Marketing Analyst – Analyze consumer data and market trends to optimize pricing strategies product launches and promotional campaigns for corporations
  • Financial Risk Analyst – Identify and quantify financial risks in banking insurance or corporate finance to develop risk mitigation strategies
  • International Development Specialist – Work on economic development projects focused on poverty reduction trade or policy reform for international agencies like USAID or the World Bank
  • Federal Reserve Analyst or Central Banker – Support monetary policy economic research and financial regulation to promote economic stability and growth at regional Federal Reserve Banks or the Board of Governors
  • Entrepreneur or Startup Founder – Leverage economic principles to build businesses especially in sectors like fintech healthtech or analytics-driven platforms

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