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Program Overview
The BA in Economics at Rutgers‑Newark blends rigorous economic theory with data-driven analysis and applied insights—preparing you for careers in finance, consulting, public policy, or graduate studies. It’s ideal for curious, analytically minded students who value both strong quantitative training and flexible elective options.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
You’ll begin with 01:220:102 (Introduction to Microeconomics) and 01:220:103 (Introduction to Macroeconomics), learning fundamental principles like market equilibrium, economic growth, and inflation. Alongside, you’ll take Calculus I (01:640:135/151) and introductory Statistics (01:960:285/211) to build essential quantitative skills.
Year 2
This year deepens your understanding through 01:220:320 (Intermediate Microeconomic Analysis) and 01:220:321 (Intermediate Macroeconomic Analysis)—sharpening your modeling of behavior and aggregate trends. You’ll also complete 01:220:322 (Econometrics) to learn regression techniques and modern quantitative analysis used in real-world economics.
Year 3
You’ll choose seven upper‑level electives in fields like labor, industrial organization, public policy, or international economics—tailoring your degree to your interests. Many students pair these studies with certificate programs or get started on independent research or an honors thesis track.
Year 4
In your final year, you’ll complete your elective credits and, if you qualify, take on an honors thesis project or pursue independent study. You may also join internships or experiential learning opportunities to gain practical, resume‑boosting experience.
Focus Areas
Microeconomic & macroeconomic theory
Econometrics & quantitative data analysis
Applied fields like public policy, labor, industrial organization, and international economics
Learning Outcomes
You’ll be able to build economic models, perform statistical and regression analyses, interpret economic data, evaluate policies, and carry out independent data-driven research.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
Rutgers–Newark is accredited by the Middle States Commission and benefits from its affiliation with Rutgers Business School, an AACSB‑accredited unit. The BA equips students for careers in finance, consulting, government, or continued academic study.
Reputation (Employability Rankings)
Rutgers–Newark ranks among the top public institutions for social mobility and value—#1 in the nation for Pell-eligible student success and within the top 15% of U.S. colleges overall. Graduates typically earn around $48K early in their careers, exceeding expectations and often advancing into key roles in finance, government, and consulting.
BA Economics – Rutgers University Newark
At Rutgers University Newark, the Economics program emphasizes experiential learning through real-world applications, research, and community engagement. Students gain practical skills by analyzing economic data, collaborating on projects, and participating in internships that prepare them for careers in business, government, and beyond.
Here’s how experiential learning is integrated into the program:
Access to the Economics Data Lab: Equipped with software like Stata, R, and MATLAB, students analyze complex economic data sets, preparing for roles in data analysis and policy research.
Collaborative Group Projects: Students work on case studies and research projects, developing teamwork and problem-solving skills essential for the workforce.
Internship Opportunities: Through partnerships with local businesses and organizations, students gain hands-on experience in economic analysis and policy implementation.
Field Research and Data Collection: Students participate in faculty-led research projects, applying economic theories to real-world situations.
Use of the Dana Library: The library offers extensive resources in economics and social sciences, supporting research and study.
Participation in the Office of Global Initiatives and Experiential Learning: Students engage in domestic and international programs focused on sustainability, community engagement, and leadership, enhancing their global perspective.
These experiences ensure that students graduate with the practical skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the field of economics.
Rutgers Newark’s Economics program equips students for careers in financial analysis, economic research, public policy, and business consulting. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and real-world application.
Here’s how Rutgers Newark supports your career:
Career Services: The Office of Career Services offers tailored workshops, internship programs, and employer networking events specifically for economics students.
Employment & Salary: Nearly 88% of graduates secure jobs within six months, with average starting salaries around $58,000.
University–Industry Partnerships: Strong connections with New Jersey’s financial firms, government bodies, and nonprofits create valuable internship and employment pathways.
Accreditation: The program is fully accredited and recognized for its rigorous economics curriculum.
Graduate Outcomes: Common roles include economic analyst, policy advisor, financial consultant, and market researcher.
Further Academic Progression:
Many students continue with graduate studies in economics, business, or public administration at Rutgers or other reputable universities to deepen their expertise.
The Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) is required for all current high school seniors.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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Rutgers University Newark
