BS in Economics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

North Carolina State University Raleigh

Program Overview

The BS in Economics at NC State offers a quantitatively intensive curriculum combining economic theory with data analysis and computational methods. It’s designed for students aiming for careers in analytics, finance, or graduate studies requiring strong technical skills.


Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Foundations in Economics & Mathematics
Students begin with foundational courses such as EC 205 (Principles of Microeconomics) and EC 206 (Principles of Macroeconomics), along with mathematics courses like MA 141 (Calculus) and STA 305 (Statistics), establishing a rigorous quantitative base.

Year 2: Intermediate Economic Theory & Quantitative Methods
The second year focuses on intermediate theory courses EC 310 (Intermediate Microeconomics) and EC 311 (Intermediate Macroeconomics), complemented by econometrics and data analysis classes to develop strong empirical skills.

Year 3: Advanced Quantitative Economics & Specialization
Students delve into advanced topics such as EC 411 (Game Theory), EC 431 (Environmental Economics), and computational economics courses, applying quantitative tools to complex economic problems.

Year 4: Capstone & Research
In the final year, students engage in a capstone seminar or independent research projects, integrating theory and data analytics to solve real-world economic issues.


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

Learning Outcomes:
Graduates develop advanced theoretical knowledge, expertise in econometrics and data analysis, and the ability to conduct independent, quantitative economic research.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The BS Economics program at NC State aligns with the rigorous standards of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, preparing students for technical and policy-oriented careers.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):
NC State’s BS Economics graduates are highly valued for their analytical rigor and are sought after by employers in finance, consulting, government, and technology sectors.


 

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

NC State’s BS Economics program takes a data-driven and technology-focused approach to learning economics, emphasizing hands-on experience with programming and statistical software in well-equipped labs. You’ll develop strong analytical skills through individual and group projects, internships, and research opportunities with faculty and external partners.

The program features access to computer labs equipped with Stata, R, Python, and SAS, enabling detailed data analysis and economic modeling. You’ll participate in collaborative projects that simulate real-world economic issues, and have opportunities to intern with government agencies, nonprofits, and corporations in the Research Triangle area. NC State’s research centers and institutes also support student-led applied economic research.

Here’s what experiential learning looks like at NC State for BS Economics:

  • Software and Programming: Use Stata, R, Python, SAS, and Tableau in specialized labs.

  • Team Projects: Collaborative research and data analysis projects simulating economic consulting and policy evaluation.

  • Internships: Strong industry connections in the Research Triangle for practical experience.

  • Research Institutes: Opportunities to engage with the Institute for Emerging Issues and other research centers.

  • Libraries and Digital Resources: Access to D.H. Hill Jr. Library’s extensive economics and business collections.

  • Career Services: Dedicated support for economics students, including resume workshops and employer networking.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of NC State’s BS Economics program often pursue careers as economic analysts, data scientists, financial consultants, or policy researchers. The program’s strong emphasis on quantitative skills and applied economics equips students for roles in both the public and private sectors.

Here’s how NC State helps you move forward professionally:

  • Career Services: The University Career Center provides specialized advising, internship placements, and employer networking events focused on economics and analytics fields.

  • Employment Stats: About 85% of graduates secure employment or enroll in graduate programs within six months, with average starting salaries around $60,000.

  • University–Industry Partnerships: Close ties with companies in Research Triangle Park and state agencies facilitate internships and job opportunities.

  • Accreditation: NC State maintains rigorous academic standards recognized across industries.

  • Graduate Outcomes: Alumni work in economic research, financial services, consulting, and public policy.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue their studies with master’s degrees in economics, data science, business analytics, or public policy through NC State or other top institutions.


 

Program Key Stats

$28550 (Annual cost)
$ 100



48 %

Eligibility Criteria

3
33
80

1320
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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