Enter OTP
The BA in Economics at the University of Oregon offers a balanced mix of economic theory, quantitative methods, and real-world application. It’s designed for students who want to understand how economies work and apply that knowledge in diverse fields such as business, public policy, and research.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1–2
You’ll start with introductory courses like ECON 201 (Principles of Microeconomics) and ECON 202 (Principles of Macroeconomics), along with math courses such as MATH 111 (Calculus) and foundational writing classes. These early courses build the essential economic and quantitative skills needed for more advanced study.
Year 2–3
Intermediate courses include ECON 301 (Intermediate Microeconomics) and ECON 302 (Intermediate Macroeconomics), where you study detailed market behavior and macroeconomic trends. You’ll also take courses in statistics and possibly electives in areas like economic history or public economics.
Year 3–4
In upper years, you’ll choose from electives like ECON 407 (Econometrics), ECON 415 (Environmental Economics), and ECON 420 (Game Theory). Many students complete a senior thesis or research project to apply their learning to practical economic questions.
Focus areas: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Environmental Economics, Game Theory
Learning outcomes: Analyze economic issues critically, apply quantitative methods to data, communicate complex economic ideas clearly
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited through the University of Oregon’s College of Arts and Sciences, providing a solid foundation for careers or graduate study
Reputation (employability rankings): Graduates work in sectors like government, finance, and non-profits, supported by Oregon’s strong academic reputation and career services
The University of Oregon’s Economics program offers extensive hands-on learning with a strong research focus.
Experiential learning includes:
Participation in the National College Fed Challenge.
Access to econometric software like Stata and R.
Internships supported by the College of Arts and Sciences.
Research opportunities in applied economics fields.
Active Economics Club and speaker series for networking and professional growth.
The BA in Economics at the University of Oregon equips students to understand real-world issues through a global and theoretical lens—preparing them for careers in public policy, business strategy, finance, and international development. Typical job roles include economic policy analysts, research coordinators, business consultants, and nonprofit program officers. Here's what sets this program apart:
The university’s Career Center offers tailored support through DucksRISE and industry-specific networking events, especially in business and public service.
Nearly 90% of economics graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months, with average starting salaries around $58,000.
UO maintains strong ties with organizations like the Oregon Economic Forum, state government agencies, and private firms—creating internship and networking opportunities.
Accredited by NWCCU, the degree is widely recognized and pairs well with minors or double majors, broadening career potential.
Graduates benefit from a strong liberal arts foundation plus robust data literacy—giving them an edge in diverse sectors.
Further Academic Progression:
Students can go on to graduate degrees in economics, global studies, public administration, or environmental policy, especially those wanting to influence regional or global economic systems.
Official transcripts, Essay, Typical SAT scores: Math(500-610), Critical reading (500-620), Writing (490-600), ACT Composite (22-27), Average GPA 3.61, TOEFL: IBT-(67-87), PBT-500-574, IELTS:6.0-6.5Economist – 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
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
University of Oregon
