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The BA in Economics at University at Albany offers a well-rounded education in economic theory, quantitative methods, and policy analysis. It’s perfect for students aiming for careers in business, government, or graduate school, with flexibility to tailor electives to your interests.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1–2
You’ll start with core courses such as ECON 110 (Principles of Microeconomics) and ECON 111 (Principles of Macroeconomics), along with math courses like MATH 120 (Calculus) and statistics. These provide a foundation in economic concepts and quantitative skills.
Year 2–3
Intermediate courses include ECON 312 (Intermediate Microeconomics) and ECON 313 (Intermediate Macroeconomics), deepening your theoretical understanding. You’ll also explore econometrics and other quantitative methods, plus electives to broaden your perspective.
Year 3–4
Advanced electives such as ECON 420 (Public Economics), ECON 425 (Labor Economics), and ECON 430 (International Economics) allow specialization. Many students complete a senior thesis or capstone project, applying economic analysis to real-world issues.
Focus areas: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Labor Economics, Public Policy
Learning outcomes: Analyze economic problems critically, utilize econometric techniques, communicate economic insights effectively, prepare for diverse career paths
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited through the College of Arts and Sciences; prepares students for roles in business, government, and academia
Reputation (employability rankings): University at Albany graduates are recognized for strong analytical skills and are successful in public and private sectors, with solid support from career services
At UAlbany, Economics students gain practical skills through research and community involvement, supported by robust university resources.
Experiential learning includes:
Internships with local government, nonprofits, and businesses arranged by the department.
Training in econometrics software such as STATA and SAS.
Opportunities to participate in faculty-led research projects.
Access to the university’s research centers, including the Center for Policy Research.
Group projects focusing on urban economics and public policy.
The BA in Economics at UAlbany offers a versatile education grounded in economic theory and policy application—perfect for careers in finance, government, business strategy, or nonprofit work. Graduates often become policy analysts, financial services associates, research assistants, or urban planning coordinators. Here's what helps students thrive:
UAlbany’s Office of Career and Professional Development offers major-specific advising, employer panels, and résumé-building workshops tailored to liberal arts students.
Nearly 90% of economics graduates are employed or in grad school within six months, with average starting salaries around $55,000.
The university maintains strong connections with state government agencies, the New York Federal Reserve, and regional nonprofits—ideal for internships and hands-on experience.
Accredited by MSCHE, the economics degree is well-regarded across both public and private sectors and offers flexibility for students to double major or minor.
Many alumni land roles in policy think tanks, regional planning offices, or business intelligence teams—often within the New York State economic network.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates frequently pursue master’s programs in economics, political science, or public administration—or opt for law school or MBAs, depending on their career path.
Academic records, extra-curricular interests, 250-500 word personal essay and one teacher or counselor letter of recommendation, International Financial Statement, IELP, TOEFL (Internet-based test: 70, Paper-based test: 523), IELTS (6.0 band score)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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University at Albany SUNY
