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The Major in Economics at the University of Notre Dame provides a strong foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and ethical considerations, preparing students to analyze and address real-world economic issues. With a commitment to the integration of moral philosophy and social justice, the program encourages students to apply economics in ways that promote the common good.
Curriculum Structure
First Year:
Students start with foundational courses such as ECON 10101: Principles of Microeconomics and ECON 10202: Principles of Macroeconomics, introducing core economic concepts and frameworks to understand market dynamics and economic policy.
Second Year:
The curriculum progresses to intermediate theory and quantitative analysis with courses like ECON 20100: Intermediate Microeconomics and ECON 20200: Intermediate Macroeconomics, alongside ECON 25100: Introduction to Econometrics, which enhance students’ analytical and empirical research skills.
Third Year:
Students delve into specialized fields with electives including ECON 31100: Labor Economics, ECON 32000: International Economics, and ECON 33100: Public Finance, allowing them to focus on areas of interest and contemporary economic challenges.
Fourth Year:
The senior year emphasizes advanced economic analysis and application through courses such as ECON 40100: Advanced Microeconomic Theory, ECON 40200: Advanced Macroeconomic Theory, and a senior seminar or thesis project, promoting independent research and critical evaluation.
Focus Areas
Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Labor Economics, Public Finance, International Economics
Learning Outcomes
Mastery of economic theory and quantitative techniques
Ability to conduct empirical research and economic modeling
Critical thinking applied to economic and social issues
Integration of ethical perspectives in economic analysis
Professional Alignment
The program prepares students for careers in business, finance, public policy, and non-profit sectors, as well as for graduate study in economics and related fields, emphasizing both technical skills and ethical responsibility.
Reputation & Employability
Notre Dame’s Economics program is respected for combining rigorous academics with a values-based approach. Graduates benefit from a strong alumni network, career services, and connections to industries that value analytical ability and integrity, leading to successful placement in diverse professional roles.
Experiential Learning in the Economics Major at the University of Notre Dame
At the University of Notre Dame, the Economics major offers students a robust blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The program emphasizes the development of analytical skills, critical thinking, and real-world application of economic principles. Students engage in various experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for successful careers in economics and related fields.
Key Experiential Learning Opportunities:
Research Opportunities: Students have the chance to collaborate with faculty on research projects, gaining hands-on experience in economic analysis and data interpretation.
Internships: The university's strong connections with industry partners provide students with internship opportunities that offer practical experience and networking prospects.
Capstone Projects: In their final year, students may participate in capstone projects that involve solving real-world economic problems, often in collaboration with external organizations.
Study Abroad Programs: The university offers study abroad programs that allow students to experience global economic systems and broaden their perspectives.
Student Organizations: Participation in student-run organizations, such as the Economics Club, provides opportunities for leadership development and engagement with the broader economic community.
Notre Dame Economics graduates launch successful careers in a wide range of fields, with 96% finding full-time employment, pursuing graduate studies, or engaging in service programs shortly after graduation. Typical job roles include financial analyst, economic consultant, data analyst, and policy advisor, reflecting the program’s versatility and strong employer demand. Here’s how the University of Notre Dame helps you achieve these outcomes:
The Notre Dame Center for Career Development provides tailored career counseling, resume workshops, and connects students with top employers through career fairs and networking events.
The average starting salary for Notre Dame undergraduates is $80,080, with a median of $82,000, and most graduates secure employment within six months.
Notre Dame’s strong corporate and industry partnerships—facilitated by the Notre Dame Futures Group—offer students access to internships, mentorships, and real-world projects with leading organizations.
The Economics program’s long-term value is underscored by the university’s reputation and rigorous curriculum, ensuring your degree remains respected by employers and graduate schools alike.
Graduates enter diverse sectors such as finance, consulting, technology, research, and public service, and benefit from a powerful alumni network that opens doors worldwide.
Further Academic Progression:
If you wish to continue your studies, Notre Dame Economics majors are well-prepared for advanced degrees. Many alumni pursue graduate programs in economics, business (MBA), law (JD), or public policy, either at Notre Dame or other top universities. The department also offers an honors track and a concentration in financial economics and econometrics, which can provide a strong foundation for Ph.D. study or specialized master’s programs
High school transcript, Two letters of evaluation one from a guidance counselor and another from a high school teacher in an academic subject area who knows you well,Cummulative Grade point average,Strength of high school College preparatory curriculumEconomist – 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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