BA in Economics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Tufts University

Program Overview

The BA in Economics at Tufts University provides a rigorous foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and applied policy analysis. The program prepares students for diverse career paths in business, government, academia, and the nonprofit sector. Students benefit from Tufts’ interdisciplinary approach and close faculty mentorship, fostering critical thinking and practical problem-solving skills.

Curriculum Structure

First Year:
Students start with introductory courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics, such as Econ 001: Principles of Microeconomics and Econ 002: Principles of Macroeconomics. These courses build essential knowledge of economic concepts and frameworks.

Second Year:
The curriculum advances to intermediate theory and quantitative techniques, including courses like Econ 011: Intermediate Microeconomics and Econ 021: Intermediate Macroeconomics. Students also begin exploring econometrics and statistics to enhance analytical capabilities.

Third Year:
Students delve into specialized fields such as labor economics, development economics, and international trade through electives like Econ 130: Labor Economics and Econ 160: International Trade. This stage emphasizes applying economic tools to real-world issues.

Fourth Year:
The senior year focuses on advanced theory and policy applications, featuring courses like Econ 180: Public Economics and Econ 190: Economic Policy Analysis. Students often complete a senior thesis or capstone project, integrating their learning with independent research.

Focus Areas

Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Development Economics, Public Policy, International Economics

Learning Outcomes

  • Mastery of core economic theories and models

  • Proficiency in quantitative and empirical methods

  • Ability to critically evaluate economic policies

  • Skills in economic data analysis and research

  • Application of economics to interdisciplinary challenges

Professional Alignment

Tufts’ Economics program equips students with the skills sought by employers in finance, consulting, government agencies, international organizations, and academic research. The program’s emphasis on quantitative methods and policy evaluation prepares graduates for both advanced study and professional roles.

Reputation & Employability

Tufts University is renowned for its strong liberal arts foundation combined with research excellence. The Economics department benefits from an engaged faculty and a global perspective. Graduates are well-regarded in competitive job markets and graduate programs, supported by Tufts’ active alumni network and career resources.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Tufts University’s Bachelor of Arts in Economics offers a dynamic blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, ensuring that students are well-prepared for both graduate study and professional careers. The program emphasizes practical application through various experiential learning opportunities, including internships, research projects, and access to specialized facilities.

Students benefit from Tufts' strong connections with local and international organizations, providing avenues for internships and collaborative projects. The university's commitment to interdisciplinary learning allows economics majors to engage with other departments and real-world issues, enhancing their analytical and problem-solving skills.

Moreover, Tufts offers a range of resources to support experiential learning:

  • Internships and Research Opportunities: Students have access to internships and research projects that apply economic theory to real-world problems.

  • Collaborative Projects: Engagement in group projects that address current economic issues, fostering teamwork and practical application of economic concepts.

  • Specialized Facilities: Access to facilities that support economic research and learning, providing students with the tools needed for in-depth analysis.

  • Advising and Support: Dedicated faculty and advisors who guide students through their academic and professional development, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.

 

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Tufts University BA in Economics program enjoy strong career outcomes, with many securing roles as financial analysts, economic consultants, policy researchers, and data analysts. According to the Tufts Career Center, 52% of recent graduates found positions in top industries like technology, finance, media, consulting, and real estate, with employers such as Amazon, Microsoft, Ernst & Young, and Accenture hiring Tufts alumni. The median starting salary for economics graduates is $75,125, notably higher than the national median for this field.

Here’s how Tufts supports your career journey:

  • The Tufts Career Center offers personalized career counseling, resume and interview workshops, and connects students to employers through career fairs and on-campus recruiting.

  • Economics majors can access a wide range of internships and job opportunities, with guidance from both the Economics Department and Career Services, including transcript-notation and for-credit internships.

  • Students benefit from research funding for senior theses and original projects, often supervised by faculty with PhDs from leading institutions.

  • Tufts’ economics program is ranked in the top 10% nationally and #3 in Massachusetts, reflecting its strong reputation and long-term degree value.

  • The university’s robust alumni network and industry partnerships open doors to internships, mentorships, and full-time roles at major firms.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your BA in Economics at Tufts, you’ll be well-prepared for advanced study. Many graduates pursue master’s or doctoral degrees in economics, business, law, or public policy—either at Tufts (which offers MS and PhD programs in economics, including joint degrees in public policy and urban/environmental policy) or at other top universities. The program’s strong quantitative and analytical foundation ensures you’ll be a competitive candidate for graduate and professional schools.

Program Key Stats

$70,704
$ 75
Aug Intake : RD 6th Jan EA/ED 4th Nov


14 %
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

ABB - AAA
3.0 - 3
36 - 40
85 - 90

1460 - 1550
33 - 35
7
100

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Economist – Analyze economic data and trends to advise government agencies private corporations or consulting firms on policy markets or business strategy
  • Investment Banking Analyst – Support capital raising mergers and acquisitions and financial transactions by building detailed financial models and conducting valuations at investment banks
  • Data 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 decisions
  • Actuary – Combine economics statistics and mathematics to assess and manage financial risks for insurance companies pension funds and financial service firms
  • Management Consultant – Advise organizations across industries on operational efficiency market entry and strategic challenges to improve overall performance
  • Financial Analyst – Evaluate company financial statements market conditions and investment opportunities to guide corporate finance portfolio management or banking decisions
  • Policy Analyst – Research and assess public policies related to economics labor health or education for think tanks NGOs or government agencies
  • Quantitative Analyst or Econometrician – Apply advanced quantitative methods and econometric models to forecast economic outcomes and guide investment or policy decisions
  • Certified Public Accountant CPA – Provide auditing tax planning and financial consulting services combine economic understanding with regulatory compliance in accounting firms or corporations
  • Economic Researcher – Conduct academic or applied research for universities government bodies like the Federal Reserve or Bureau of Labor Statistics or international organizations
  • Marketing Analyst – Analyze consumer data and market trends to optimize pricing strategies product launches and promotional campaigns for corporations
  • Financial Risk Analyst – Identify and quantify financial risks in banking insurance or corporate finance to develop risk mitigation strategies
  • International Development Specialist – Work on economic development projects focused on poverty reduction trade or policy reform for international agencies like USAID or the World Bank
  • Federal 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 Governors
  • Entrepreneur or Startup Founder – Leverage economic principles to build businesses especially in sectors like fintech healthtech or analytics-driven platforms

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