The B.S. in Economics at UNC Chapel Hill is an ideal program for students who want to master advanced quantitative and analytical skills while exploring how economic models shape business, policy, and society. This STEM-designated, interdisciplinary degree is perfect for those interested in data-driven economic research, private sector careers, or graduate study in economics and related fields.
Curriculum structure
First Year:
You’ll build a solid foundation with courses like ECON 101 (Introduction to Economics) and MATH 231/232 (Calculus of Functions of One Variable I & II). In the spring, you’ll dive into ECON 400 (Introduction to Data Science and Econometrics), gaining your first experience in economic data analysis and statistical methods.
Sophomore Year:
Your studies deepen with ECON 410 (Intermediate Microeconomics) and MATH 233 (Calculus of Functions of Several Variables) in the fall. Spring brings ECON 420 (Intermediate Macroeconomics) and ECON 470 (Econometrics), where you’ll analyze economic systems and apply econometric techniques to real-world data.
Junior Year:
You’ll have the flexibility to choose upper-level economics electives (400-level and above, including two at the 500-level), allowing you to tailor your studies to interests such as financial economics, international trade, or public policy. This year is about applying your skills to specialized topics and beginning to shape your unique academic path.
Senior Year:
Your final year focuses on advanced electives and integrating your quantitative and research skills. You can participate in honors seminars or research projects, and complete electives that prepare you for professional or academic pursuits after graduation.
Focus areas:
Quantitative methods, econometrics, data science, economic modeling, policy analysis, interdisciplinary STEM applications
Learning outcomes:
Mastery of economic theory, advanced data analysis, research skills, quantitative reasoning, and critical thinking for complex problem-solving
Professional alignment (accreditation):
STEM-designated (CIP code 45.0603), supporting careers in finance, consulting, analytics, and policy, as well as graduate study
Reputation (employability rankings):
UNC Chapel Hill is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the U.S., with strong employability outcomes and recognition for its economics programs
UNC Chapel Hill’s Economics Major, B.S. is designed to immerse you in practical, hands-on learning that prepares you for real-world problem-solving and advanced research. The program’s interdisciplinary approach means you’ll work with tools and methods from mathematics, statistics, and computer science, gaining experience with data analysis and computational techniques. Students have access to specialized research labs, collaborative group projects, and digital resources that support both coursework and independent study. The department encourages participation in undergraduate research, with opportunities to work alongside faculty on projects that address current economic challenges. You’ll also benefit from the university’s extensive library system and connections to research institutes.
Here’s how experiential learning is integrated into the UNC Chapel Hill B.S. Economics program:
Access to the Odum Institute for Research in Social Science, offering workshops, consulting, and data resources for economic research.
Use of advanced statistical and econometric software in coursework and research, including R, Stata, and Python.
Opportunities for undergraduate research with faculty, including the Honors Program and independent study projects.
Group projects in upper-level courses, where you’ll collaborate to analyze economic data and present findings.
Participation in the Carolina Research Scholars Program and the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF).
Access to Davis Library’s extensive economics and data collections, as well as digital resources for economic analysis.
UNC Chapel Hill’s B.S. in Economics is a rigorous program that opens doors to a wide range of high-impact careers. Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as financial analyst, economic consultant, data scientist, and policy advisor, thanks to a strong foundation in economic theory, quantitative analysis, and econometrics.
Here’s how UNC Chapel Hill supports your career progression:
The program’s curriculum emphasizes advanced coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics, data science, and econometrics, ensuring you develop the analytical and technical skills employers seek.
Students benefit from honors and FY-Launch course options, which provide enriched learning experiences and opportunities for early engagement in research and advanced topics.
Career services at UNC, including personalized advising, resume workshops, and employer networking events, help connect you with internships and full-time positions.
The department’s industry connections and alumni network open doors to internships, research opportunities, and job placements in finance, consulting, government, and beyond.
Your degree from UNC Chapel Hill carries long-term value and recognition, backed by the university’s strong academic reputation and accreditation.
Graduates are well-equipped for immediate employment or further study, with many securing competitive roles in both the private and public sectors.
Further Academic Progression:
After earning your B.S. in Economics at UNC Chapel Hill, you’ll be exceptionally prepared for graduate programs in economics, finance, data science, public policy, or law. The program’s quantitative and analytical rigor ensures you’ll stand out as a candidate for top master’s and doctoral programs, both at UNC and other leading universities.
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