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Washington University’s Economics program combines rigorous theoretical foundations with strong quantitative and analytical training. It is designed for students aiming for careers in finance, consulting, policy-making, or advanced graduate study.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1–2
Students begin with ECON 101 (Principles of Microeconomics) and ECON 102 (Principles of Macroeconomics), along with introductory courses in calculus and statistics. This provides a solid foundation in economic concepts and quantitative reasoning.
Year 2–3
Intermediate courses such as ECON 201 (Intermediate Microeconomic Theory) and ECON 202 (Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory) build upon foundational knowledge. Courses in econometrics and mathematical economics enhance empirical and theoretical skills.
Year 3–4
Advanced electives cover areas like Public Economics, International Trade, and Behavioral Economics. A senior thesis or capstone project offers students the chance to conduct independent research and apply economic theory practically.
Focus areas: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Public Economics, Behavioral Economics
Learning outcomes: Develop strong quantitative and analytical skills, apply economic theory to real-world issues, conduct independent research, communicate complex ideas effectively
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Danforth Campus and the College of Arts & Sciences; aligns with standards for economic and analytical professions
Reputation (employability rankings): Washington University economics graduates are known for strong analytical skills and graduate school placement, with excellent career prospects in business and public sectors
WashU offers a comprehensive program focusing on empirical research and policy analysis.
Experiential learning includes:
Internships facilitated by the Sam Fox School of Business.
Use of statistical tools like Stata and Python.
Research collaboration with faculty on urban and financial economics.
Active Economics Club with networking events.
Group projects and case studies based on real economic data.
WashU’s Economics Bachelor’s degree offers a strong combination of theoretical foundation and practical skills, preparing students for careers in finance, consulting, economic research, and policy analysis. Graduates commonly become financial analysts, consultants, economic researchers, and policy advisors. Here’s how WashU supports your career:
The Career Center provides personalized advising, access to a vast alumni network, internship placement, and recruiting events with top firms.
Approximately 94% of graduates are employed or enrolled in further education within six months, with average starting salaries around $65,000.
WashU maintains partnerships with leading financial institutions, consulting firms, and government agencies, offering rich internship and networking opportunities.
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the program is recognized for academic rigor and career relevance.
Alumni frequently advance to top graduate programs and hold leadership roles in business, finance, and public policy.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates often pursue master’s degrees in economics, business administration (MBA), public policy, or law to expand their career paths.
Common Application/Coalition Application, Original academic transcripts or certified copies, Test scores: ACT, SAT, IELTS, TOEFL, Visa Eligibility, Proof of Financial Support, Medical Care and Health Insurance, Counselor and teacher recommendations, EssayEconomist – 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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Washington University in St Louis
