1. University of Illinois Chicago
  2. Program
  3. Bachelors
  4. BA Economics

BA Economics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Illinois Chicago

Program Overview

UIC’s BA in Economics blends a strong foundation in economic theory with applied quantitative methods, preparing students to analyze real-world issues through data-driven and policy-oriented lenses. The program is ideal for students interested in careers in government, finance, or urban economic development, especially within Chicago’s vibrant economy.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Introductory Theory & Math Skills
Students begin with ECON 120 (Principles of Microeconomics) and ECON 121 (Principles of Macroeconomics), alongside MATH 165 (Calculus for Business) or MATH 180 (Calculus I), forming the analytical base of the major.

Year 2: Core Economic Theory & Statistics
The second year emphasizes ECON 220 (Microeconomic Theory) and ECON 221 (Macroeconomic Theory), with ECON 270 (Statistics for Economics) introducing data analysis and probability models.

Year 3: Econometrics & Applied Economics
Courses like ECON 300 (Econometrics) build skills in regression, hypothesis testing, and empirical modeling. Students also begin exploring electives such as urban or labor economics.

Year 4: Electives & Independent Projects
Seniors choose from advanced electives like Health Economics or International Trade. Some students may complete ECON 399 (Independent Study) to conduct supervised research.

Focus Areas:
Urban Economics, Labor Markets, Health Economics, Public Finance, International Trade

Learning Outcomes:
Graduates gain expertise in economic modeling, data interpretation, and the ability to evaluate policy decisions through a quantitative and theoretical lens.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and embedded within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, this program meets national standards for social science training.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):
UIC’s location in downtown Chicago gives students unique access to internships and jobs in finance, public policy, and consulting, especially through connections to city agencies and major firms.

 

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

UIC offers a comprehensive economics program with a focus on practical experience and research. Students are encouraged to participate in internships and engage with faculty on research projects.

Key Experiential Learning Opportunities:

  • Internships: Collaborate with local businesses and organizations to gain industry experience.

  • Research Opportunities: Work alongside faculty on economic research, contributing to publications and studies.

  • Community Engagement: Participate in projects that address economic issues within the Chicago community.

  • Workshops and Seminars: Attend events that enhance understanding of economic theories and practices.

  • Career Development: Utilize UIC's career services for job placement and networking in economics fields.

Progression & Future Opportunities

UIC’s BA in Economics prepares students to succeed in roles such as economic analysts, policy researchers, financial advisors, and market consultants. With Chicago’s dynamic economic environment and UIC’s urban-campus advantage, students graduate ready to tackle real-world challenges in both public and private sectors.

Here’s how UIC supports your career development:

  • Career Services: The Office of Career Services and LAS Career Development offer internship placement, employer panels, and workshops tailored to liberal arts majors, including economics.

  • Employment Stats: Nearly 80% of LAS graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months, with average starting salaries for economics majors ranging from $50,000–$58,000.

  • University–Industry Partnerships: Located in the heart of Chicago, UIC connects students with internships and jobs in government agencies, financial institutions, and research firms like the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and Morningstar.

  • Accreditation: UIC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission; the economics program follows rigorous standards of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

  • Graduate Outcomes: Alumni find roles in financial services, consulting, urban planning, and economic development.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates are well-positioned for UIC’s MA in Applied Economics or other graduate programs in public policy, law, and business, taking advantage of UIC’s graduate network and research strengths.

Program Key Stats

$13362 (Per Semester)
$ 160
Aug Intake : 15th Feb


77 %
No
No

Eligibility Criteria

ABB - BBB
3.0 - 3.5
26 - 30
75 - 80

1060 - 1310
24 - 31
6.5
80

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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