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The BA in Economics at UB offers a comprehensive curriculum combining economic theory, quantitative methods, and applied economics. This program prepares students for diverse careers in economic analysis, public policy, and business, emphasizing practical skills and critical thinking.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Introduction to Economics & Mathematics
Students begin with foundational courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics along with mathematics for economics, such as calculus and statistics.
Year 2: Intermediate Theory & Quantitative Analysis
Core courses in intermediate micro and macroeconomic theory are paired with introductory econometrics and statistical methods.
Year 3: Econometrics & Applied Economics
Students take advanced courses in econometrics, applied microeconomics, and specialized electives like labor economics or international trade.
Year 4: Electives & Independent Study
The final year focuses on electives aligned with student interests and may include independent research or a senior thesis.
Focus Areas:
Labor Economics, International Trade, Public Finance, Economic Development
Learning Outcomes:
Graduates acquire strong analytical skills, proficiency in data interpretation, and the ability to apply economic reasoning to complex problems.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
UB is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, ensuring quality education that meets national standards.
Reputation (Employability Rankings):
UB’s location and partnerships provide students access to internships and employment in New York’s public and private sectors, contributing to strong graduate outcomes.
UB's economics program emphasizes experiential learning through internships, research opportunities, and community engagement. Students apply economic theories to real-world situations, preparing for diverse careers.
Key Experiential Learning Opportunities:
Internships: Gain practical experience in various industries related to economics.
Research Opportunities: Collaborate with faculty on economic studies and projects.
Community Engagement: Participate in initiatives that address economic issues within the community.
Workshops and Seminars: Attend events to enhance understanding of economic concepts and practices.
Career Services: Access resources for job placement and career development in economics.
UB’s BA in Economics equips graduates with the analytical and quantitative skills needed for careers as economic analysts, policy researchers, data consultants, and financial planners. The program emphasizes both theory and applied learning, and its graduates are well-positioned for success in public service, finance, and industry.
Here’s how UB supports your transition from campus to career:
Career Services: UB’s Career Design Center offers one-on-one career coaching, job fairs, and employer networking specifically for economics and social science majors.
Employment Stats: Approximately 85% of graduates from UB’s College of Arts and Sciences are employed or in graduate school within six months; economics majors report salaries averaging between $50,000–$60,000.
University–Industry Partnerships: Buffalo’s growing business sector, as well as partnerships with state agencies and research organizations, provide internship and job opportunities.
Accreditation: UB is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and is a flagship of the SUNY system, giving the degree lasting value.
Graduate Outcomes: Alumni are employed in economic consulting, financial services, public policy, and urban development roles both locally and nationally.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates often continue into UB’s MA in Economics or pursue advanced degrees in law, business, data science, or public administration at SUNY or other major research institutions.
Application Deadlines Early Action: November 1, 2025 (non-binding) Regular Decision: January 15, 2026SAT/ACT Policy Mandatory: SAT or ACT required Superscoring: University at Buffalo superscores both SAT and ACT Score Reporting: Submit all scores; superscore used for review; official scores required upon enrollment Testing Codes: SAT - 2925; ACT - 2978English Language Proficiency Requirements Tests Accepted: TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test When Required: For non-native English speakers without 2+ years postsecondary education in English Minimum Scores: TOEFL iBT 100+, IELTS 7.0+, Duolingo 120+Essays Required Common App Essay: 1 essay, up to 650 words Supplemental Essays: 1 optional short answer essay (varies yearly, ~250 words)Academic Prerequisites 4 years of English 3 years of Mathematics (Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry; Calculus recommended) 2 years of Science 2 years of Foreign LanguageEconomist – 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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