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The BA in Economics at UMass Amherst provides a thorough grounding in economic theory, data analysis, and policy evaluation, perfect for students aiming to work in business, government, or research. Over four years, you’ll gain practical skills and a deep understanding of how economies operate on both local and global scales.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll be introduced to the basics with courses like Principles of Microeconomics and Principles of Macroeconomics, where you’ll learn about market forces, economic cycles, and consumer behavior. You’ll also take Introduction to Statistics, which builds essential quantitative skills for analyzing economic data.
Year 2:
The second year moves into more detailed theory with Intermediate Microeconomic Theory and Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory, focusing on optimization, market efficiency, and economic growth models. Alongside this, Econometrics introduces statistical techniques used to interpret economic data, strengthening your analytical toolkit.
Year 3:
Your third year offers advanced topics such as Public Economics, International Economics, and Development Economics, allowing you to explore specialized areas aligned with your interests. You’ll also engage in applied projects and seminars, honing your research and critical thinking skills.
Year 4:
In your final year, you’ll have the opportunity to dive deeper into elective modules and undertake a capstone or thesis project that involves original research or applied economic analysis. Courses like Behavioral Economics and Environmental Economics prepare you for contemporary challenges and diverse career paths.
Focus Areas:
Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Public Policy, International Trade, Development Economics, Behavioral Economics, Environmental Economics
Learning Outcomes:
Develop advanced skills in economic analysis, quantitative methods, policy evaluation, research design, and effective communication of economic concepts.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The program is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), ensuring quality education recognized by employers and graduate schools.
Reputation (Employability Rankings):
UMass Amherst is recognized as a leading public university with a strong reputation for economics, noted for high graduate employability in finance, consulting, government, and academia.
The BA in Economics at UMass Amherst offers a comprehensive understanding of economic theory, market structures, and public policy. Students engage in hands-on learning through research projects, internships, and collaborative group work, preparing them for diverse careers in economics.
Experiential Learning Opportunities:
Students in the BA in Economics program at UMass Amherst benefit from various experiential learning opportunities:
Research Projects: Engage in faculty-led research addressing real-world economic issues.
Internships: Gain practical experience through internships with local businesses and government agencies.
Group Projects: Collaborate with peers on projects that apply economic concepts to current events.
Field Trips: Participate in visits to economic institutions and organizations to observe economic principles in action.
Facilities and Resources:
UMass Amherst provides state-of-the-art facilities to support economics students:
Draper Hall: Houses the Department of Economics, providing classrooms and faculty offices.
W.E.B. Du Bois Library: Offers extensive resources for research and study.
Computing Facilities: Equipped with software for data analysis and economic modeling.
Collaborative Spaces: Designed to facilitate group work and discussions.
BA in Economics – University of Massachusetts Amherst
Graduates from UMass Amherst’s BA in Economics program typically pursue careers in economic analysis, financial services, government, and market research: job titles often include economic analyst, financial consultant, policy analyst, and data specialist.
Here’s how UMass Amherst supports your career journey:
The Isenberg School of Management Career Center provides comprehensive career services including internship placement, employer networking events, and career fairs tailored to economics students.
Employment data shows that approximately 88% of graduates secure jobs or continue education within six months, with average starting salaries around $58,000.
Strong collaborations with local businesses and government agencies give students internship and project opportunities that enhance real-world experience.
The program is accredited by AACSB, ensuring recognized quality and a valuable credential in the job market.
Graduates often work in public sector roles, private finance, or advance to graduate studies in economics or business.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA, students can pursue graduate degrees such as a Master’s in Economics, Public Policy, or Business Administration, leveraging UMass Amherst’s advising and alumni network to access top-tier programs.
TOEFL ibT of 80, Interview with Admissions Representative, IELTS minimum required score of 6.5 overall band.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 of Massachusetts Amherst
