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The BA in Economics at the University of Pittsburgh offers a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing both theoretical foundations and practical applications. It’s perfect for students seeking careers in business, public policy, or graduate studies who want a strong analytical base.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Introduction to Economic Principles & Math Skills
Students begin with ECON 0101 (Principles of Microeconomics) and ECON 0102 (Principles of Macroeconomics), alongside math courses such as MATH 0110 (Calculus) and STAT 1001 (Statistics). These courses provide essential economic concepts and quantitative skills.
Year 2: Intermediate Theory & Quantitative Methods
The second year focuses on intermediate micro and macroeconomics through ECON 1101 and ECON 1102, plus introduction to econometrics with ECON 1350. These classes deepen understanding of economic models and empirical analysis.
Year 3: Electives & Applied Economics
Students explore specialized areas via electives such as ECON 1701 (Labor Economics), ECON 1801 (Environmental Economics), or ECON 1601 (Public Finance). This stage encourages application of economic theory to real-world issues.
Year 4: Advanced Topics & Research
In their final year, students complete advanced electives and often participate in a senior seminar or thesis project to synthesize their knowledge and prepare for professional or academic paths.
Focus Areas:
Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Labor Economics, Environmental Economics, Public Finance
Learning Outcomes:
Graduates gain solid theoretical knowledge, practical econometric skills, and the ability to analyze economic problems critically and communicate solutions effectively.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The program aligns with the University of Pittsburgh’s standards for rigorous undergraduate education, preparing students well for careers and graduate studies.
Reputation (Employability Rankings):
Pitt’s Economics program is respected regionally and nationally, with graduates recruited by employers in finance, government, and consulting sectors.
At University Of Pittsburgh, the BA in Economics program offers students immersive, hands-on learning experiences that combine theory with practical application. You’ll use advanced software and data tools to analyze economic phenomena, supported by specialized labs and a wealth of research resources. The program encourages collaboration through group projects and provides opportunities for internships and field research that deepen your understanding of economics in real-world contexts.
The Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences equips students with access to computer labs featuring Stata, R, and SAS, enabling detailed econometric and statistical analysis. The Center for Economic Research (CER) connects students with faculty-led applied research projects, while the University Library System offers extensive economic and business databases for study and research.
Experiential learning highlights include:
Econometric Software Use: Training in Stata, R, SAS for data analysis in dedicated computer labs.
Group Projects and Presentations: Develop teamwork and communication skills by tackling applied economic problems.
Internships and Fieldwork: Access to internships with local and national organizations through Pitt’s strong industry connections.
Research Centers: Engage with the Center for Economic Research for applied projects.
Comprehensive Library Resources: Access to Hillman Library’s extensive economic and business databases.
Career Services: Specialized advising and career fairs focused on economics and related fields.
Graduates from Pitt’s BA Economics program often secure positions as economic analysts, policy advisors, financial consultants, or market researchers. The program’s blend of theoretical and practical training prepares students to contribute effectively in diverse economic and business environments.
Here’s how the University of Pittsburgh supports your career path:
Career Services: The Career Center offers dedicated resources including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job fairs focused on economics and business.
Employment Stats: Over 80% of economics graduates find employment or continue education within six months, with average starting salaries around $55,000.
University–Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with Pittsburgh’s finance and public policy sectors provide internship and job placement opportunities.
Accreditation: The Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences maintains high academic standards recognized nationally.
Graduate Outcomes: Alumni advance into roles in government agencies, consulting firms, and financial institutions.
Further Academic Progression:
After earning the BA, students can pursue graduate studies such as a Master’s in Economics, MBA, or law school, supported by Pitt’s extensive graduate programs and research initiatives.
Application Deadlines: Early Decision: November 1, 2025 Regular Decision: January 15, 2026Testing Policy: Optional: SAT or ACT scores are optional for students applying for fall 2025, 2026, and 2027 entryEnglish Language Proficiency: Tests Accepted: TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test When Required: For non-native English speakers without 2+ years postsecondary education in English Minimum Scores: TOEFL iBT 100+, IELTS 7.0+, Duolingo 120+Essays: Common App Essay: 1 essay, up to 650 words Supplemental Essays: 1 optional short answer essay (varies yearly, ~250 words)Letters of Recommendation: Required: None for general admission Note: Letters may be required if applying via alternative or special programsAcademic Prerequisites: 4 years of English 3 years of Mathematics (Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry; Calculus recommended) 2 years of Science 2 years of Foreign LanguageEconomist – 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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