BA Economics

 The program is designed to help you develop practical skills in data analysis, economic modeling, and policy evaluation through real-world applications. You’ll have access to state-of-the-art resources and facilities that prepare you to tackle complex economic issues with confidence. From cutting-edge computer labs to active research centers, UW supports your learning journey with tools that reflect today’s economic challenges.

Here’s how the program immerses you in experiential learning:

• Computer Labs with Advanced Statistical Software: Access to specialized software such as Stata, R, SAS, and Python, enabling you to perform rigorous data analysis and economic modeling essential for your coursework and research projects.

• Group Projects and Collaborative Learning: Many courses emphasize teamwork, where you collaborate with peers to analyze economic data, conduct experiments, and present findings, simulating professional economic research environments.

• Internship Opportunities: The Economics program encourages internships in public policy, finance, and business sectors, offering you real-world experience and valuable networking connections through the university’s career services.

• The Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology (CSDE): A dedicated research center where students can engage in applied economics research related to population studies, economic development, and environmental economics.

• Library and Research Facilities: The Suzzallo and Allen Libraries provide extensive access to economic journals, datasets, and historical archives crucial for research and academic success.

• Field Trips and Guest Lectures: The program frequently organizes field trips and invites leading economists and industry experts for guest lectures, providing insight into current economic issues and policies.

• Capstone and Independent Study Projects: Opportunities to design and complete your own research project under faculty mentorship, fostering deep engagement with economic questions that interest you.

Graduates of the BA in Economics at the University of Washington enter the job market with sharp quantitative skills and a strong understanding of market dynamics. Typical career paths include financial analyst, policy researcher, business consultant, and data analyst, with many finding roles in tech, finance, government, and nonprofits.

Here’s how UW helps launch your career:

• Career & Internship Center: Students have access to Handshake, one-on-one advising, employer info sessions, and tailored job/internship listings specifically for economics majors.

• Employment Outcomes: According to UW’s latest survey, over 90% of economics graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months. Entry-level salaries for economics majors average around $65,000–$75,000, depending on specialization.

• Industry Connections: The Economics department partners with companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Deloitte, offering mentorship programs, job-shadowing, and on-campus recruiting events.

• Long-term Degree Value: The program is housed within the College of Arts & Sciences, and UW is consistently ranked among the top public research universities in the world, giving your degree long-standing value in both domestic and international job markets.

• Research & Honors Opportunities: High-performing students can take part in the Economics Honors Program, working on original research with faculty—ideal preparation for both careers and grad school.