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Program Overview:
The BA in Economics blends rigorous quantitative training with flexible electives in theory, applied economics, and writing, preparing you to analyze real-world issues. This major is ideal for students interested in policy, finance, business, or graduate studies who value data-driven problem-solving and critical thinking.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1:
Your first year kicks off with ECON 108 Principles of Economics, introducing core micro- and macroeconomic concepts. Alongside this, you'll take a calculus sequence (like MATH 141–143 or 161–162) and begin fulfilling writing and elective requirements, setting a solid foundation in analytical reasoning.
Year 2:
You’ll build on fundamentals with ECON 207 Intermediate Microeconomics, ECON 209 Intermediate Macroeconomics, and ECON 230 Economic Statistics (or STAT/MATH equivalents). These courses develop your ability to model economic behavior and interpret data—skills vital for both theory and applied work.
Year 3:
This year gets more specialized: ECON 231W Econometrics sharpens your data-analysis skills, while four upper-level electives let you dive into areas like labor economics, game theory, environmental economics, or development economics. You’ll also choose two allied-field courses to broaden your perspective outside economics.
Year 4:
In your senior year, continue with electives tailored to your interests, and for Honors students, tackle ECON 389W Senior Seminar (or the equivalent). These capstone experiences enable you to conduct original research, refine your economic argumentation, and prepare for advanced work or professional roles.
Focus areas: “Micro‑ and macro‑theory, econometrics/statistics, allied‑field coursework, upper‑level electives in environmental, labor, international, developmental, and game theory economics”
Learning outcomes: “Develop the economic way of thinking; formally model decisions; analyze current and historical events economically; interpret and present data; and write clearly expressing economic viewpoints”
Professional alignment (accreditation):
The major is STEM‑designated and backed by rigorous departmental and university standards. Calculation and statistics requirements align with global quantitative benchmarks; and the department’s strong advising ensures quality and rigor.
Reputation (employability rankings):
Rochester’s Economics program ranks #27 in the U.S. for Social Sciences & Humanities (Times Higher Education, 2025). College Factual places it #83 nationally (#10 in New York), with a median bachelor’s salary around $63,500—well above the national average
Experiential Learning at the University of Rochester – Economics BA
The Economics BA program at the University of Rochester emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. Students engage in various hands-on experiences that enhance their understanding of economic principles and prepare them for real-world challenges.
Key experiential learning components include:
Internships: Students have opportunities to intern with organizations such as the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, economic consulting firms, and governmental agencies, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge in professional settings.
Research Opportunities: Undergraduate students can collaborate with faculty on research projects, gaining insights into economic research methodologies and contributing to academic publications.
Capstone Projects: The program culminates in a capstone project where students analyze real economic issues, providing solutions and policy recommendations.
Study Abroad Programs: The university offers study abroad opportunities, enabling students to explore global economic systems and broaden their perspectives.
Student Organizations: Participation in economics-related student organizations, such as the Economics Club, provides networking opportunities and exposure to guest speakers from various sectors.
These experiences are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers in economics.
Graduates from the University of Rochester’s Economics BA program are highly sought after in fields such as economic consulting, financial analysis, public policy, and data science: they often step into roles like economic consultant, financial analyst, policy advisor, or data analyst.
Why Rochester gives you a real edge:
The Simon Business School Career Services offers personalized career coaching, access to exclusive internship pipelines, and strong alumni networking opportunities in finance and consulting.
Employment rates for economics graduates stand around 90% within six months, with average starting salaries near $65,000.
Collaborative partnerships with leading firms in finance and economics, including JPMorgan Chase and the Federal Reserve Bank, provide students with valuable experiential learning and internship access.
The program is recognized by the American Economic Association (AEA), ensuring your degree holds strong professional credibility.
Alumni often advance into prestigious roles in investment banking, economic research, or pursue further education at renowned graduate schools.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue to graduate studies such as a Master’s or PhD in Economics, Finance, or Public Policy, with many using the university’s strong academic advising to apply for competitive graduate programs worldwide.
High school transcript, Financial documentation, Teacher recommendation, School report, Midyear report, College transcriptEconomist – 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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