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VCU’s BS in Economics focuses on a quantitative and analytical approach to economics, preparing students for careers in research, policy, and business. The program emphasizes data analysis, economic modeling, and practical problem-solving.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1–2
Students start with ECON 201 (Principles of Microeconomics) and ECON 202 (Principles of Macroeconomics), alongside math courses such as calculus and statistics. This builds foundational knowledge in economic theory and quantitative skills.
Year 2–3
Intermediate courses include ECON 301 (Intermediate Microeconomics) and ECON 302 (Intermediate Macroeconomics), which explore economic behavior and policy in detail. You’ll also study econometrics and data analysis to develop strong empirical skills.
Year 3–4
Advanced electives cover topics like ECON 401 (Econometrics), ECON 410 (Public Economics), and ECON 420 (International Economics). A capstone or senior project enables you to apply economic theory and methods to real-world challenges.
Focus areas: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Public Economics, International Economics
Learning outcomes: Develop quantitative and analytical expertise, interpret economic data effectively, communicate complex economic concepts clearly, prepare for diverse professional paths
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by VCU’s College of Humanities and Sciences; aligns with standards for economic analysis and research careers
Reputation (employability rankings): VCU graduates secure roles in government, business, and nonprofits, supported by strong institutional career resources
VCU emphasizes real-world applications with a focus on urban economics and public policy.
Experiential learning includes:
Internships with local government and nonprofit agencies.
Hands-on experience with economic research methods.
Use of statistical tools such as SPSS and Stata.
Community-based projects related to Richmond’s economy.
Access to VCU libraries and research centers.
Virginia Commonwealth University’s BS in Economics is designed to develop strong analytical and quantitative skills, preparing graduates for careers in financial analysis, economic research, policy evaluation, and consulting. Typical job roles include financial analysts, economic researchers, policy advisors, and data analysts. Here’s how VCU supports student success:
The VCU Career Services Center offers targeted internship programs, employer networking events, and personalized career counseling for economics students.
Approximately 87% of graduates secure employment or continue education within six months, with average starting salaries around $55,000.
The university has active partnerships with Richmond-based financial firms, government agencies, and research institutions, providing students with practical internship opportunities.
Accredited by SACSCOC, the program integrates both theory and applied economics, with a strong emphasis on data analysis.
Alumni often find opportunities in both the public sector and private financial industries, benefiting from VCU’s extensive local network.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates are well-prepared for graduate study in economics, public policy, finance, or data science, as well as professional degrees such as the MBA or law.
Common Application, Transcripts, Essays, Recommendations, Test scores: ACT, SAT, IELTS, TOEFL, Financial CertificationEconomist – 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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Virginia Commonwealth University
