1. North Carolina State University Raleigh
  2. Program
  3. Bachelors
  4. BA in Economics

BA in Economics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

North Carolina State University Raleigh

Program Overview

The BA in Economics at NC State offers a broad liberal arts perspective with strong emphasis on economic theory and policy applications. It’s perfect for students aiming for careers in business, government, or further academic study who want flexibility in their coursework.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Core Principles & Quantitative Foundations
Students start with introductory courses such as EC 205 (Principles of Microeconomics) and EC 206 (Principles of Macroeconomics), alongside math courses like MA 141 (Calculus) and STA 305 (Statistics), building a solid foundation for economic analysis.

Year 2: Intermediate Theory & Economic Methods
The second year introduces intermediate micro and macroeconomic theory with EC 310 (Intermediate Microeconomics) and EC 311 (Intermediate Macroeconomics). Students also begin exploring econometrics and research methods.

Year 3: Specialization & Electives
Students choose electives focusing on areas such as EC 411 (Game Theory), EC 421 (Labor Economics), or EC 431 (Environmental Economics), applying economic theory to specialized fields and policy questions.

Year 4: Capstone & Independent Projects
The final year includes a capstone course or senior seminar to synthesize learning, and students may undertake independent research projects or honors theses to demonstrate mastery of economic analysis.

Focus Areas:
Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Game Theory, Labor Economics, Environmental Economics, Public Policy

Learning Outcomes:
Graduates gain comprehensive understanding of economic theory, quantitative methods, and the ability to analyze and communicate complex economic issues clearly.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
NC State’s BA Economics is housed in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, ensuring rigorous liberal arts education with strong professional preparation.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):
NC State graduates in economics are respected for their analytical skills and are recruited by employers in business, government, and nonprofit sectors.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At NC State, the BA in Economics program emphasizes practical skills and real-world application through access to specialized computer labs, cutting-edge software, and strong industry partnerships. You’ll engage in hands-on data analysis and policy evaluation projects, supported by faculty mentorship and research centers that bring economic theory to life.

The program provides facilities equipped with software like Stata, R, and Tableau, allowing you to analyze economic data comprehensively. Group projects are an integral part of coursework, fostering teamwork and communication skills. NC State’s Institute for Emerging Issues offers opportunities for research and internships, connecting you with policymakers and business leaders.

Experiential learning highlights include:

  • Econometric and Data Visualization Software: Use Stata, R, and Tableau in dedicated labs.

  • Collaborative Group Projects: Work on applied economic problems and policy analysis.

  • Internships and Research Opportunities: Partnerships through the Institute for Emerging Issues and university career services.

  • Specialized Facilities: Access to the Economic Development Partnership and related research centers.

  • Comprehensive Libraries: Access to the D.H. Hill Jr. Library and its extensive economic resources.

  • Career Development: Advising focused on economics career paths and networking events.

 

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of NC State’s BA Economics program find rewarding careers as economic consultants, financial analysts, policy advisors, or market researchers. The program’s practical focus and strong analytical training prepare students to meet the demands of diverse industries including government, finance, and business.

Here’s how NC State supports your career ambitions:

  • Career Services: The University Career Center offers tailored advising, internship connections, and job search workshops specifically for economics students.

  • Employment Stats: Approximately 83% of graduates secure employment or graduate study within six months, with average starting salaries around $57,000.

  • University–Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with Research Triangle Park companies and state government agencies provide valuable internship and employment opportunities.

  • Accreditation: NC State’s programs meet high standards recognized regionally and nationally.

  • Graduate Outcomes: Alumni take on roles in economic consulting, policy analysis, and business strategy across various sectors.

Further Academic Progression:
Students may advance to master’s programs in economics, business administration, public policy, or related fields, leveraging NC State’s strong graduate offerings.

Program Key Stats

$28550 (Annual cost)
$ 100
Sept Intake : 1st Oct


48 %

Eligibility Criteria

AAA - A*A*A
3.8 - 4.0
38 - 42
90 - 95

1350 - 1530
31 - 34
6.5
80

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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