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The BA/BS in Economics at the University of Utah delivers a comprehensive and flexible curriculum that blends economic theory, quantitative methods, and real-world applications. It's an excellent fit for students who want to pursue impactful careers in business, government, academia, or non-profits and seek a broad foundation while retaining freedom to tailor their studies.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Core Principles & Quantitative Foundations
You’ll start with ECON 2010 (Principles of Microeconomics) and ECON 2020 (Principles of Macroeconomics), alongside introductory math (MATH 1050/1090) and general education courses. This builds a solid foundation in economic thinking and data analysis.
Year 2: Intermediate Theory & Research Methods
In year two, you'll progress into intermediate theory and applied quantitative work. Courses include econometrics, quantitative methods, and selections from electives like economic doctrines or history. This stage strengthens both analytical and contextual understanding.
Year 3: Breadth & Technical Depth
Junior year emphasizes depth and flexibility—dug into advanced elective offerings like economics of gender, institutions, or statistics analysis—while maintaining a strong analytical core. You’ll also focus on allied fields (like math, business, or programming) to deepen your toolkit.
Year 4: Specialization & Capstone Preparation
In your final year, you'll choose upper-level electives in areas like Law and Economics, Business Economics & Analytics, or similar. You’ll also complete your senior capstone or learning communities with potential independent research.
Focus Areas: Business Economics & Analytics, Law and Economics, Statistics Analysis, Economic Thought, Institutional Economics
Learning Outcomes:
Graduates will emerge with strong critical thinking and quantitative skills, capable of modeling economic issues, conducting data-driven analysis, and addressing complex societal problems using diverse economic perspectives.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The University of Utah is accredited by NWCCU, and its degree programs are designed and assessed under rigorous university-wide learning outcomes, ensuring high academic quality and alignment with professional standards.
Reputation (Employability Rankings):
As a flagship public research institution and AAU member, Utah is known for its strong research output and resources—making its graduates desirable in roles across finance, government, policy think tanks, and industry.
At the University of Utah, students pursuing a Degree in Economics benefit from a comprehensive educational experience that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application. The Department of Economics offers a range of opportunities that prepare students for successful careers in various sectors.
Through hands-on experiences, students engage in real-world economic analysis, policy evaluation, and research projects that enhance their understanding and skills.
Key Experiential Learning Opportunities:
Internships: Students have access to internships that provide practical experience in economic analysis and policy evaluation.
Research Projects: Engage in research projects that allow students to apply economic theories to real-world issues.
Study Abroad Programs: The university offers study abroad programs that provide global perspectives on economic issues.
Lassonde Studios: A unique space that combines living, working, and learning, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among students.
Collaborations with Industry Leaders: Opportunities to work with industry leaders on current trends and challenges in the marketplace.
These opportunities are designed to provide students with practical skills and experiences that are highly valued in the job market.
Graduates of the University of Utah's BA/BS in Economics program are well-prepared for careers as economic analysts, policy advisors, financial consultants, and data scientists. The program's strong analytical foundation and emphasis on quantitative methods equip students with the skills necessary to excel in various sectors:
Career Services Support: The university offers comprehensive career services, including personalized advising, internship placement assistance, and access to a vast alumni network, helping students transition smoothly into the workforce.
Employment Stats: While specific employment statistics for economics graduates are not readily available, the program's rigorous curriculum and strong industry connections enhance employability.
University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Utah fosters collaborations with industry leaders through initiatives like the Office of Strategic Economic Partnerships, facilitating research opportunities and internships for students.
Accreditation Value: The university is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), ensuring that the program meets high standards of academic quality and rigor.
Graduate Outcomes: Alumni have successfully pursued careers in government agencies, financial institutions, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in preparing students for diverse professional paths.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA/BS in Economics, students may choose to pursue advanced degrees such as a Master of Statistics (MStat) in Econometrics, a Master of Business Administration (MBA), or a Juris Doctor (JD) in law. The university's strong academic foundation supports further specialization in areas like data analytics, public policy, and international economics.
Application Deadlines Early Action (Fall): December 1, 2025 Final Regular (Fall): April 1, 2026Applicants graduating outside Utah should apply via Common App; standardized tests not explicitly required but often factored in for scholarships and course placement.Letters of Recommendation Not required for general admission.Academic Prerequisites Standard Utah freshman curriculum; University policy requires meeting core high school courses. For major: at least 48 credit hours — 36 economics + 12 allied courses; GPA ≥ 2.0, letter grade ≥ C- in core courses Economist – 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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