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Swarthmore’s Bachelor of Economics offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary approach combining economic theory, quantitative analysis, and social sciences. Ideal for students seeking a broad liberal arts education with strong preparation for graduate study or research careers.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1–2
Students take foundational courses like ECON 001 (Principles of Microeconomics) and ECON 002 (Principles of Macroeconomics), along with required math courses in calculus and statistics. This establishes a strong grounding in economic concepts and analytical methods.
Year 2–3
Intermediate courses focus on ECON 101 (Intermediate Microeconomic Theory) and ECON 102 (Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory), deepening understanding of economic behavior. Students also engage in econometrics and applied statistics to strengthen empirical skills.
Year 3–4
Advanced seminars and electives such as Public Economics, International Trade, and Behavioral Economics allow for specialization. A senior thesis or independent research project encourages deep exploration of economic questions using theoretical and quantitative tools.
Focus areas: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Behavioral Economics, Public Policy
Learning outcomes: Develop critical and quantitative thinking, apply economic theory rigorously, conduct independent research, communicate complex ideas effectively
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited within Swarthmore’s rigorous liberal arts framework, preparing students for competitive graduate programs and research careers
Reputation (employability rankings): Swarthmore graduates are highly regarded for analytical skills and intellectual rigor, opening doors in academia, government, and business sectors
Swarthmore’s Economics program focuses on critical thinking and empirical research.
Experiential learning includes:
Opportunities to work on original research with faculty.
Use of statistical software like Stata and R.
Small seminars and group discussions enhancing collaboration.
Access to the College’s libraries and research resources.
Senior thesis projects requiring in-depth data analysis.
Swarthmore College’s Bachelor of Economics offers a rigorous liberal arts education with an emphasis on critical thinking, theory, and real-world application. Graduates often pursue careers in public policy, academia, consulting, and finance. Typical roles include policy analysts, economic consultants, researchers, and financial advisors. Here’s what makes this program stand out:
The Career Services office provides personalized advising, alumni networking, and access to exclusive internships, especially in the Philadelphia and NYC areas.
Swarthmore boasts an exceptional graduate employment rate, with most economics graduates pursuing further education or entering prestigious roles soon after graduation.
The college maintains close ties with top graduate programs and organizations, facilitating research opportunities and career placement.
Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), the program is known for its academic excellence and strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning.
Alumni have a history of success in competitive graduate schools and influential roles in public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates frequently continue to elite master’s and doctoral programs in economics, public policy, law, or business.
Online Application required, 3 letter of recommendation, Unofficial Transcripts, Statement of Purpose, Personal statementEconomist – 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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