BA Economics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Pennsylvania

Program Overview

UPenn’s BA in Economics offers a rigorous blend of economic theory, quantitative analysis, and interdisciplinary study. It suits students aiming for careers in finance, consulting, policy, or advanced graduate programs.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1–2
Students take ECON 001 (Microeconomics) and ECON 002 (Macroeconomics), alongside mathematics courses such as Calculus and Linear Algebra. This foundation sharpens economic reasoning and analytical skills.

Year 2–3
Intermediate courses include ECON 101 (Intermediate Microeconomics) and ECON 102 (Intermediate Macroeconomics), along with ECON 104 (Econometrics). Students deepen their understanding of economic models and empirical methods.

Year 3–4
Advanced electives cover areas like Public Economics, Financial Economics, and International Trade. A senior thesis or research project allows students to apply theory and data analysis to complex problems.


Focus areas: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Public Economics, Financial Economics

Learning outcomes: Master economic theory, conduct rigorous quantitative research, analyze policy impacts, communicate findings effectively

Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Wharton School and College of Arts & Sciences; recognized for excellence in economic education

Reputation (employability rankings): UPenn economics graduates are highly sought after worldwide, with strong career prospects in finance, consulting, and academia

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

UPenn combines a strong theoretical foundation with real-world economic applications and research.

Experiential learning includes:

  • Internships in finance, consulting, and public policy sectors.

  • Use of advanced econometric and statistical software.

  • Access to research centers such as the Penn Institute for Economic Research.

  • Collaborative research projects and senior theses.

  • Participation in economics seminars and speaker series.

Progression & Future Opportunities

UPenn’s BA in Economics offers a top-tier education combining rigorous economic theory with real-world applications, ideal for careers in finance, consulting, public policy, and academia. Graduates often become financial analysts, consultants, policy advisors, and economic researchers. Here’s what makes UPenn stand out:

  • The Penn Career Services provides dedicated advising, extensive employer networks, internship placements, and access to exclusive recruiting events.

  • Approximately 95% of graduates find employment or continue their studies within six months, with average starting salaries well above $70,000.

  • The university has strong partnerships with Wall Street firms, government agencies, and leading consultancies, offering students unparalleled networking and internship opportunities.

  • Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), UPenn’s program is globally recognized for academic excellence.

  • Alumni hold influential positions in finance, government, academia, and business worldwide.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates frequently pursue advanced degrees in economics, business (MBA), law, or public policy at prestigious institutions.

Program Key Stats

$53534



10 %

Eligibility Criteria

AAA - A*A*A
3.8 - 4.0
38 - 42
90 - 95

1500 - 1570
34 - 35
7.5
100

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Economist – Analyze economic data and trends to advise government agencies private corporations or consulting firms on policy markets or business strategy
  • Investment Banking Analyst – Support capital raising mergers and acquisitions and financial transactions by building detailed financial models and conducting valuations at investment banks
  • Data 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 decisions
  • Actuary – Combine economics statistics and mathematics to assess and manage financial risks for insurance companies pension funds and financial service firms
  • Management Consultant – Advise organizations across industries on operational efficiency market entry and strategic challenges to improve overall performance
  • Financial Analyst – Evaluate company financial statements market conditions and investment opportunities to guide corporate finance portfolio management or banking decisions
  • Policy Analyst – Research and assess public policies related to economics labor health or education for think tanks NGOs or government agencies
  • Quantitative Analyst or Econometrician – Apply advanced quantitative methods and econometric models to forecast economic outcomes and guide investment or policy decisions
  • Certified Public Accountant CPA – Provide auditing tax planning and financial consulting services combine economic understanding with regulatory compliance in accounting firms or corporations
  • Economic Researcher – Conduct academic or applied research for universities government bodies like the Federal Reserve or Bureau of Labor Statistics or international organizations
  • Marketing Analyst – Analyze consumer data and market trends to optimize pricing strategies product launches and promotional campaigns for corporations
  • Financial Risk Analyst – Identify and quantify financial risks in banking insurance or corporate finance to develop risk mitigation strategies
  • International Development Specialist – Work on economic development projects focused on poverty reduction trade or policy reform for international agencies like USAID or the World Bank
  • Federal 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 Governors
  • Entrepreneur or Startup Founder – Leverage economic principles to build businesses especially in sectors like fintech healthtech or analytics-driven platforms

Book Free Session with Our Admission Experts

Admission Experts