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Program Overview
Michigan State’s BA in Economics offers a well-rounded education focusing on economic theory, quantitative methods, and real-world applications. It’s tailored for students seeking careers in government, business, or graduate studies, emphasizing analytical thinking and policy evaluation.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Introductory Economics and Quantitative Skills
Students start with ECON 201 (Principles of Microeconomics) and ECON 202 (Principles of Macroeconomics), supported by foundational math courses such as MTH 124 (Calculus for Business and Social Sciences) to build essential analytical skills.
Year 2: Intermediate Microeconomics and Macroeconomics
The second year deepens understanding through ECON 351 (Intermediate Microeconomics) and ECON 352 (Intermediate Macroeconomics), alongside ECON 381 (Statistical Methods in Economics) to develop econometric competencies.
Year 3: Applied Economics and Electives
In the third year, students engage with applied economic analysis, including courses like ECON 481 (Econometrics) and electives that allow exploration in areas such as labor economics or public policy.
Year 4: Capstone and Specialization
The final year focuses on specialization via electives and a senior seminar or research project, giving students a chance to synthesize knowledge and conduct independent economic research.
Focus Areas:
Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Public Policy, Labor Economics
Learning Outcomes:
Graduates gain strong theoretical knowledge, quantitative analysis skills, and the ability to apply economic concepts to solve real-world problems.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring quality education that prepares students for analytical roles in diverse sectors.
Reputation (Employability Rankings):
Michigan State’s Economics program is well regarded regionally and nationally, with graduates successfully entering government agencies, private firms, and graduate schools.
At Michigan State, the B.A. in Economics is built on applying knowledge to real-world challenges. Through internships, research projects, and community engagement, students take part in hands-on experiences that bridge classroom theory with economic practice. Whether you're analyzing policy impact in Lansing, interning in the private sector, or conducting research with MSU faculty, you’ll graduate with valuable skills—and résumé-ready experience.
Here’s what that looks like in action:
Economics Internship Course (SSC 493) – Earn credit while gaining real workplace experience in industries like finance, policy, and consulting.
Undergraduate Research – Collaborate with faculty or pursue independent research, with opportunities to present at undergraduate research forums.
Social Science Scholars Program – Engage in advanced research, leadership development, and a funded international internship or study abroad experience.
Economics Study Abroad – Study global economic systems in cities like Brussels, London, or Beijing, often with MSU faculty on-site.
Service-Learning & Community Projects – Apply economics to local challenges through civic engagement and coursework tied to community issues.
Career Services Network – MSU’s platform connects students to employers, internships, and mentoring tailored to economics majors.
Specialized Academic Advisors – Get one-on-one guidance in customizing your economics experience with high-impact opportunities.
Graduates from Michigan State’s BA in Economics often enter careers in business consulting, public policy, finance, and market analysis. This flexible, liberal arts-based program builds strong foundations for a variety of fields:
University career support: MSU’s Career Services Network helps students with résumé workshops, career fairs, and one-on-one mentoring—especially strong in state and regional economic sectors.
Employment rate: Roughly 87% of graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months, with median starting salaries around $55,000–$60,000.
Industry links: MSU connects students with employers like General Motors, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, and public policy firms.
Accreditation & reputation: MSU’s College of Social Science provides a respected, interdisciplinary framework for economic studies.
Graduate outcomes: Alumni go on to positions in economic development, corporate strategy, and government agencies.
Further Academic Progression:
Students can pursue graduate studies in Economics, Public Administration, or Law, with support through MSU’s graduate preparation resources and research initiatives.
Application Deadlines Regular Decision: February 1, 2026 (Does not offer Early Action/Early Decision)SAT/ACT Policy Mandatory: SAT or ACT recommended but test-optional for 2026 Superscoring: Not officially stated; submit highest scores Score Reporting: Official scores required if submitted Testing Codes: SAT - 1465; ACT - 1986English Language Proficiency Requirements Tests Accepted: TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test When Required: For non-native English speakers without 2+ years postsecondary education in English Minimum Scores: TOEFL iBT 79+, IELTS 6.5+, Duolingo 105+Essays Required Common App Essay: 1 essay, up to 650 words Supplemental Essays: NoneLetters of Recommendation Required: None for general admissionInterview Policy Offered: No interviewsAcademic Prerequisites 4 years of English 3 years of Mathematics (Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry) 2 years of Science recommended 2 years of Foreign Language recommendedEconomist – Analyze economic data and trends to advise government agencies private corporations or consulting firms on policy markets or business strategyInvestment Banking Analyst – Support capital raising mergers and acquisitions and financial transactions by building detailed financial models and conducting valuations at investment banksData 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 decisionsActuary – Combine economics statistics and mathematics to assess and manage financial risks for insurance companies pension funds and financial service firmsManagement Consultant – Advise organizations across industries on operational efficiency market entry and strategic challenges to improve overall performanceFinancial Analyst – Evaluate company financial statements market conditions and investment opportunities to guide corporate finance portfolio management or banking decisionsPolicy Analyst – Research and assess public policies related to economics labor health or education for think tanks NGOs or government agenciesQuantitative Analyst or Econometrician – Apply advanced quantitative methods and econometric models to forecast economic outcomes and guide investment or policy decisionsCertified Public Accountant CPA – Provide auditing tax planning and financial consulting services combine economic understanding with regulatory compliance in accounting firms or corporationsEconomic Researcher – Conduct academic or applied research for universities government bodies like the Federal Reserve or Bureau of Labor Statistics or international organizationsMarketing Analyst – Analyze consumer data and market trends to optimize pricing strategies product launches and promotional campaigns for corporationsFinancial Risk Analyst – Identify and quantify financial risks in banking insurance or corporate finance to develop risk mitigation strategiesInternational Development Specialist – Work on economic development projects focused on poverty reduction trade or policy reform for international agencies like USAID or the World BankFederal 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 GovernorsEntrepreneur or Startup Founder – Leverage economic principles to build businesses especially in sectors like fintech healthtech or analytics-driven platforms
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