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The BA in Economics at CU Boulder provides students with a solid foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and real-world application. The program emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving through both core courses and specialized electives, preparing graduates for careers in public policy, business, and law, or for further study.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Economic Principles & Mathematics Foundations
Students begin with ECON 2010 (Principles of Microeconomics) and ECON 2020 (Principles of Macroeconomics), alongside calculus requirements such as MATH 1300 (Calculus I), providing analytical groundwork.
Year 2: Intermediate Economic Theory
Core intermediate theory courses like ECON 3070 (Microeconomic Theory) and ECON 3080 (Macroeconomic Theory) are introduced, along with the first course in econometrics or statistics.
Year 3: Econometrics & Applied Fields
Students take ECON 3818 (Introduction to Statistics with Computer Applications) and ECON 4070 (Econometrics), gaining skills in regression analysis, data interpretation, and empirical research.
Year 4: Electives & Capstone Options
Seniors select from electives like environmental, international, or labor economics. Capstone options may include research seminars or independent study guided by faculty.
Focus Areas:
Environmental Economics, Public Finance, International Trade, Labor Economics, Development Economics
Learning Outcomes:
Graduates demonstrate analytical reasoning, quantitative data evaluation, and the ability to critically assess economic policy and communicate findings effectively.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
Accredited through CU Boulder’s College of Arts & Sciences, the program aligns with national standards for liberal arts-based economic training.
Reputation (Employability Rankings):
CU Boulder Economics alumni are well-regarded in Colorado’s public and private sectors, with a strong pipeline to state agencies and graduate programs.
CU Boulder emphasizes hands-on learning through internships, research, and leadership programs. Students engage in real-world economic analysis and policy discussions, preparing them for careers in business, government, and academia.
Key Experiential Learning Opportunities:
Internships: Gain practical experience in various sectors, applying classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Research Centers: Engage with the Carl McGuire Center for research on globalization, immigration, trade, and democratization.
Leadership Programs: Participate in the Presidents Leadership Class, focusing on applied leadership experiences and community involvement
Seminar Series: Attend events featuring renowned economists, fostering a deeper understanding of current economic issues.
Study Abroad: Opportunities to study economics in different cultural and economic contexts.
Career Services: Access to resources for job placement and career development in economics-related fields.
Graduates from CU Boulder’s BA in Economics program go on to impactful roles in government, consulting, finance, and international development. With a focus on critical thinking, policy analysis, and quantitative skills, students are well-equipped for careers as financial analysts, economic researchers, policy advisors, and business strategists.
Here’s how CU Boulder prepares you for the future:
Career Services: The College of Arts & Sciences Career Services offers specialized support including résumé reviews, economics-specific job boards, and employer meetups.
Employment Stats: Over 85% of graduates are employed or pursuing further education within six months; average starting salaries range between $50,000–$60,000.
University–Industry Partnerships: Connections with employers like the Federal Reserve, Lockheed Martin, and local public policy agencies provide valuable internship pipelines.
Accreditation: CU Boulder is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring long-term academic value.
Graduate Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to roles in federal and state agencies, research firms, NGOs, and multinational corporations.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates often pursue master's programs in economics, law, business administration, or public policy, including CU Boulder’s own MS in Economics or joint graduate programs offered on campus.
Application Deadlines Early Action: November 1, 2025 (non-binding) Regular Decision: January 15, 2026SAT/ACT Policy Mandatory: SAT or ACT required Superscoring: University of Colorado Boulder superscores both SAT and ACT Score Reporting: Submit all scores; superscore used for review; official scores required upon enrollment Testing Codes: SAT - 1836; ACT - 1836English 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 LanguageActuarial AnalystChartered AccountantEconomistData Analyst
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