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.
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.
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.
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