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The BA in Economics at the University of Kentucky provides a broad liberal arts education combined with solid training in economic principles. It’s perfect for students who want flexibility in their studies and are interested in careers in business, education, or policy, or planning to continue to graduate studies.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1–2
You’ll begin with ECON 201 (Principles of Microeconomics) and ECON 202 (Principles of Macroeconomics), supported by foundational courses in mathematics like MATH 105 (College Algebra) and STAT 110 (Elementary Statistics). This stage develops a broad understanding of economic concepts and quantitative literacy.
Year 2–3
Intermediate courses such as ECON 351 (Intermediate Microeconomics) and ECON 352 (Intermediate Macroeconomics) build a deeper understanding of economic models and applications. Electives and general education courses allow you to explore related areas and enhance critical thinking.
Year 3–4
You’ll complete upper-level economics electives like ECON 310 (Money and Banking), ECON 340 (International Economics), and may choose to do a senior project or internship. This final phase emphasizes applied skills and real-world economic problem solving.
Focus areas: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Applied Economics, International Economics
Learning outcomes: Understand core economic theories, apply analytical skills to economic issues, communicate economic ideas clearly, and adapt knowledge to diverse careers
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited through the Gatton College of Business and Economics, the BA prepares students for versatile career paths and further education
Reputation (employability rankings): Graduates successfully enter fields including business, government, and education, benefiting from UK’s comprehensive support and alumni network
The BA variant focuses more on a broad understanding of economic principles with applied policy perspectives.
Experiential learning includes:
Internships with nonprofit organizations and government agencies.
Use of digital tools for economic data visualization and analysis.
Collaborative projects addressing social and economic issues relevant to Kentucky.
Fieldwork opportunities connected to community economic development.
Participation in speaker series and networking events hosted by the department.
The BA in Economics at the University of Kentucky builds strong foundations in economic theory and critical thinking, preparing students for careers in policy advising, financial services, nonprofit strategy, and market research. Common roles include policy analysts, financial advisors, research assistants, and business development coordinators. Here’s what makes it work:
Students receive expert support from the Stuckert Career Center, which offers job shadowing, résumé building, and connections to regional and national employers.
Around 88% of graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate studies within six months, with average starting salaries near $57,000.
UK’s economics department connects with the Kentucky Economic Association, local chambers of commerce, and public policy labs—giving students practical exposure.
Accredited by SACSCOC, the BA delivers a strong liberal arts framework, useful across government, education, and corporate roles.
Alumni often step into leadership roles in both policy-making and private sector decision-making, thanks to their broad analytical toolkit.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates commonly pursue further study in areas like public policy, international relations, economics, or law—enhancing their versatility in global and domestic markets.
Official Transcripts, Letter of Recommendation, TOEFL score of 71 (iBT), 197 (cbt) or 527 (paper-based) or a minimum score of 6.0 on the IELTSEconomist – 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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