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Program Overview
Rice University's BA in Economics is designed for students who are curious about how markets, businesses, and governments interact to shape our world. This flexible program blends rigorous quantitative training with real-world applications, making it ideal for students interested in careers in business, policy, or research.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1:
Your first year will build a solid foundation in economic theory and quantitative skills. You'll take courses like ECON 100 Principles of Economics and MATH 101 Single Variable Calculus, which introduce you to core economic concepts and essential mathematical tools.
Year 2:
In your second year, you'll deepen your understanding with intermediate courses such as ECON 200 Microeconomics and ECON 203 Macroeconomics. These classes explore how individuals and firms make decisions, and how economies function on a larger scale.
Year 3:
During your third year, you'll have the opportunity to tailor your studies to your interests with electives like ECON 305 Econometrics and ECON 308 Game Theory. You'll learn how to analyze data, model strategic interactions, and apply economic reasoning to real-world problems.
Year 4:
In your final year, you'll tackle advanced electives and may participate in a research seminar or independent study, such as ECON 399 Senior Seminar. This capstone experience allows you to synthesize your learning and prepare for graduate study or a professional career.
Focus areas:
Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Game Theory, Policy Analysis
Learning outcomes:
Critical thinking, quantitative analysis, data interpretation, effective communication, policy evaluation
Professional alignment (accreditation):
Rice’s Economics program is part of the School of Social Sciences, which upholds rigorous academic standards and prepares students for top graduate programs and careers in consulting, finance, policy, and more.
Reputation (employability rankings):
Rice University is consistently ranked among the top 20 national universities by U.S. News & World Report, and its graduates are highly sought after by employers in economics, finance, and consulting.
At Rice University, Economics majors gain hands-on experience that goes far beyond the classroom. Students develop practical skills through research projects, internships, and access to advanced data analysis tools. The program encourages collaboration and real-world application, with opportunities to work on group projects, participate in faculty-led research, and engage with Houston’s dynamic economic landscape. Dedicated facilities like the Fondren Library and the Center for Civic Leadership support students’ academic and professional growth.
Here’s how Rice Economics students put theory into practice:
Access to Fondren Library’s extensive economics and data resources, including specialized databases and research support.
Participation in group projects and research seminars, especially in upper-level courses such as the Senior Seminar (ECON 399), where students tackle real economic issues and present their findings.
Opportunities for internships and practical work experience in Houston’s vibrant business and policy sectors, supported by Rice’s Center for Civic Leadership and faculty networks.
Use of econometric and statistical software in courses like Econometrics (ECON 305), equipping students with in-demand data analysis skill.
Engagement with the Center for Civic Leadership, which offers research, service, and leadership opportunities directly tied to economics and public policy
Support from Rice’s Student Center, which provides resources for over 300 clubs and organizations, including those focused on economics and business, fostering teamwork and leadership development
Graduates of the BA in Economics at Rice University are highly competitive candidates for careers in finance, consulting, public policy, and economic research. They often secure positions as financial analysts, economic consultants, policy advisors, and data analysts, benefiting from Rice’s strong analytical training and personalized education.
Here’s how Rice supports your career success:
Center for Career Development: Offers tailored career coaching, resume workshops, interview prep, and access to exclusive internships and job listings through Handshake and Rice-specific employer connections.
Employment Outcomes: About 95% of Rice economics graduates find employment or enter graduate school within six months, with starting salaries typically between $70,000 and $85,000.
University-Industry Connections: Rice partners with leading firms including Shell, McKinsey & Company, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, providing students with valuable networking and internship opportunities.
Accreditation & Reputation: Rice’s degree carries significant prestige due to its position as a top-tier research university, ensuring long-term value and strong alumni support.
Research & Experiential Learning: Students can engage in independent research projects, honors theses, and internships that integrate classroom learning with practical experience.
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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