Program Overview
The BS in Economics at Penn State offers a solid grounding in economic theory combined with strong quantitative and analytical training, ideal for students aiming at careers in data-driven industries, finance, or advanced economic research. This program emphasizes mathematical rigor and practical problem-solving skills in economic contexts.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Introductory Economics & Quantitative Tools
Students start with ECON 102 (Microeconomic Principles) and ECON 104 (Macroeconomic Principles), alongside foundational math courses like MATH 140 (Calculus I), establishing essential economic concepts and quantitative techniques.
Year 2: Intermediate Theory & Econometrics
The curriculum advances with ECON 302 (Intermediate Microeconomic Theory), ECON 304 (Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory), and STAT 401 (Regression Methods), equipping students with deeper theoretical insights and applied statistical skills.
Year 3: Flexible Course Tracks & Electives
Students select from electives including ECON 410 (Public Economics), ECON 433 (International Trade), and ECON 455 (Behavioral Economics), enabling a tailored focus on policy, global markets, or behavioral insights.
Year 4: Capstone Project & Independent Study
In the senior year, students complete a senior thesis or research project through ECON 493W (Senior Thesis), integrating theory and data analysis in an original economic study.
Focus Areas:
Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Public Policy, Behavioral Economics, International Trade
Learning Outcomes:
Graduates will master economic theory, quantitative data analysis, critical thinking, and independent research applicable to complex economic issues.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
Penn State’s program follows the university’s regional accreditation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Reputation (Employability Rankings):
Penn State is highly ranked for its economics program, with graduates well-regarded in business, consulting, government, and academic sectors nationwide.
Penn State's BS Economics program offers students a comprehensive understanding of economic systems, coupled with practical experiences that prepare them for various professional roles. The program emphasizes the application of economic analysis in real-world scenarios.
Experiential Learning Opportunities:
Living Labs at PSU: Provides an ecosystem for learning that enables unique features of communities, facilities, campus grounds, and regional neighborhoods to serve as test beds for the development of innovative solutions to real challenges.
Internship and Work Opportunities: Offers a range of internship and work opportunities customized after course completion to prepare students for the real world.
High-End Classrooms: Provides students with access to modern classrooms equipped with advanced technologies to facilitate effective learning.
BS Economics – Pennsylvania State University
Graduates from Penn State’s BS Economics program typically move into roles like data analysts, financial economists, business consultants, and economic researchers. The program prepares students with strong quantitative and analytical skills:
University services: Penn State’s Career Services offers dedicated workshops, resume reviews, and employer networking events tailored for economics students.
Employment stats: About 85-90% of graduates secure jobs or continue education within six months; average starting salaries range between $58,000 and $65,000.
Industry partnerships: The university maintains strong ties with organizations like PNC Financial Services and Deloitte, facilitating internships and recruitment.
Accreditation & reputation: Penn State’s economics programs are nationally ranked and accredited, enhancing long-term professional credibility.
Graduation outcomes: Alumni often pursue roles in finance, government agencies, or consulting firms, with many advancing to senior economist or managerial positions.
Further Academic Progression:
Students can advance their studies with Master’s or PhD programs in Economics, Finance, or Public Policy, and Penn State supports this with research assistantships and seamless graduate admission pathways.
BA Economics – Pennsylvania State University
Penn State’s BA Economics graduates commonly find careers as economic consultants, market analysts, policy advisors, or financial planners, focusing on a broader liberal arts approach:
Career support: Penn State’s career network includes one-on-one advising, internship placement, and participation in the Economics Club’s industry panels.
Employment rates: Roughly 88% of BA Economics graduates are employed or enrolled in further study shortly after graduation, with median salaries around $55,000.
Industry links: Partnerships with local and national employers provide valuable internship pipelines, including with the Pennsylvania Department of Economic Development.
Program standing: The BA program benefits from Penn State’s strong reputation and regional accreditation, helping graduates stand out in competitive job markets.
Outcomes: Graduates often enter sectors like economic development, non-profits, or business intelligence, with many moving on to graduate or professional degrees.
Further Academic Progression:
Students may pursue graduate degrees in Economics, Public Administration, or Business, with Penn State’s extensive graduate offerings and funding options easing the transition.
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