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Program Overview:
Princeton University's Bachelor of Arts in Economics provides a comprehensive education in economic theory and empirical methods, preparing students for careers in academia, policy analysis, finance, and consulting. The program emphasizes analytical thinking and quantitative analysis, offering a strong foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundations in Economics and Mathematics
Introductory Courses: Students begin with foundational courses such as ECO 100: Introduction to Microeconomics and ECO 101: Introduction to Macroeconomics, establishing a solid understanding of economic principles.
Mathematics Preparation: Mathematical skills are developed through courses like MAT 175: Multivariable Calculus, providing the necessary tools for advanced economic analysis.
Year 2: Core Economic Theory and Statistics
Intermediate Theory: The second year delves into intermediate economic theory with courses like ECO 300 or ECO 310: Intermediate Microeconomics and ECO 301 or ECO 311: Intermediate Macroeconomics, exploring consumer behavior, market structures, and aggregate economic performance.
Econometrics: Students undertake ECO 302 or ECO 312: Econometrics, focusing on statistical methods for analyzing economic data.
Year 3: Advanced Electives and Specialization
Departmental Electives: In the third year, students explore specialized fields through departmental electives, applying theoretical knowledge to practical economic issues.
Cognates: Students may count up to two courses from other departments as cognates, provided they have substantial economics content.
Year 4: Independent Research and Capstone Experience
Senior Thesis: The final year offers opportunities for in-depth research through a senior thesis, allowing students to synthesize their learning and contribute original insights to the field of economics.
Comprehensive Exam: Students must pass a senior comprehensive exam, demonstrating their proficiency in economic theory and analysis.
Focus Areas: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Public Finance, International Economics, Development Economics
Learning Outcomes: Graduates will demonstrate proficiency in economic theory, quantitative analysis, empirical research methods, and critical thinking, preparing them for diverse careers in economics and related fields.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is part of Princeton University's Department of Economics, adhering to the institution's rigorous academic standards and accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Reputation (Employability Rankings): Princeton University's Economics program is globally recognized, consistently ranking among the top in the world for its academic excellence and strong connections to industry and government sectors.
Experiential Learning Opportunities:
Undergraduate Research Assistantships: Students can collaborate with faculty members on research projects, gaining hands-on experience in data analysis and economic modelling.
Internship Opportunities: The Department of Economics provides resources for finding internships, enabling students to gain practical experience in economic policy and related areas.
Independent Work: Students engage in independent research, culminating in a senior thesis that allows them to apply their knowledge to real-world economic problems.
Centres and Programs: The department oversees several centres and initiatives, including the Bendheim Center for Finance and the Julis-Rabinowitz Centre for Public Policy and Finance, offering additional opportunities for research and engagement.
Future Progression & Opportunities: BA in Economics at Princeton University
Graduates of Princeton’s BA in Economics program are exceptionally well-prepared for diverse and impactful careers. With a strong foundation in economic theory, quantitative analysis, and policy evaluation, alumni often pursue roles such as:
These positions are prevalent across sectors including finance, consulting, technology, and government. Here's how Princeton supports your career development:
Career Development Resources: The Department of Economics offers personalized advising, workshops, and access to a vast alumni network, providing guidance and opportunities tailored to your career aspirations.
Employment Statistics and Salary Figures: Economics graduates from Princeton report competitive starting salaries, reflecting the program's strength in preparing students for the job market.
University–Industry Partnerships: Princeton maintains strong relationships with leading organizations, facilitating internships and job placements for its graduates.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: The Economics program at Princeton is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and has produced numerous Nobel laureates, enhancing its prestige and recognition in the field.
Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have progressed to influential roles in top-tier organizations and have been accepted into prestigious graduate programs, reflecting the program’s strength in preparing students for diverse career paths.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates of Princeton's Economics program often pursue advanced studies in various fields. Common paths include:
Graduate Programs: Many alumni continue their education in economics, public policy, business administration (MBA), or law (JD) at institutions such as Harvard, Stanford, and the London School of Economics.
PhD Programs: For those interested in academic or high-level research careers, continuing to a PhD in Economics or related fields is a common path.
The comprehensive education and extensive resources at Princeton provide a robust platform for both immediate employment and continued academic advancement.
SAT/ACT Update: Applicants must send SAT/ACT scores directly from testing agencies. Princeton accepts SAT Score Choice and the highest ACT composite score but encourages submitting all scores. Superscoring is not allowed between paper and digital SAT formats. Use codes SAT: 2672 and ACT: 2588 when registering.Recommendations: School Report- Required, Counselor Recommendation- Required, Mid Year Report- Required, Final Report- Required, Teacher Evaluation(s): 2 Required, 0 Optional Other Evaluation(s): 0 Required, 2 Optional.Graded Written Paper- The graded written paper must be submitted in English and can come from O- or A-level coursework, so long as this student-written essay meets all of the other requirements listed. The graded written paper and teacher comments should not be translated from another language into English, they must be written in English. If you are also submitting a rubric, that must also be in English.Princeton-Specific Questions: Applicants must respond to several short-answer questions tailored to Princeton's academic and community environment. The Economics major at Princeton is not officially designated as a STEM field. However, students pursuing the Minor in Quantitative Economics or engaging in math-intensive coursework may benefit from STEM-related skills and training. English Language Proficiency Requirement: If English is not your native language and your school does not teach in English, you must take the TOEFL, IELTS Academic, or PTE Academic. This requirement is waived if English is your native language or if you have studied for at least three years at a secondary school where English is the primary language of instruction.Economist – 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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