Enter OTP
The BA in Economics at Wayne State University provides students with a broad foundation in economic theory, policy analysis, and quantitative methods. It’s ideal for those interested in careers in business, public service, or further graduate study, offering flexibility with a liberal arts emphasis.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1–2
Students begin with core courses such as ECON 2010 (Principles of Microeconomics) and ECON 2020 (Principles of Macroeconomics), along with foundational math and communication courses. These develop basic economic understanding and analytical skills.
Year 2–3
Intermediate courses like ECON 3010 (Intermediate Microeconomics) and ECON 3020 (Intermediate Macroeconomics) deepen knowledge of economic models and policy analysis. Students also explore statistics and electives to broaden their skillset.
Year 3–4
Upper-division electives cover specialized topics such as ECON 4110 (Econometrics), ECON 4300 (Labor Economics), and ECON 4500 (Public Finance). A senior seminar or capstone project helps students synthesize learning and apply economic reasoning to real-world issues.
Focus areas: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Labor Economics, Public Finance
Learning outcomes: Analyze economic data, apply theory to practical problems, communicate economic concepts effectively, prepare for diverse career paths
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited within Wayne State’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the program supports careers in public, private, and nonprofit sectors
Reputation (employability rankings): Graduates find opportunities in business, government agencies, and community organizations, with support from Wayne State’s urban research environment
Wayne State’s program emphasizes urban and applied economics with practical skill development.
Experiential learning includes:
Internships in Detroit’s business and public sectors.
Use of econometrics and statistical software such as STATA and SPSS.
Fieldwork and community-based economic research.
Group projects focused on urban economic challenges.
Access to research centers and libraries specializing in economic data.
The BA in Economics at Wayne State University prepares students to tackle economic issues in urban development, government, finance, and labor markets. Graduates often work as policy analysts, economic development coordinators, financial analysts, or nonprofit strategists. Why this degree works in your favor:
The Mike Ilitch School of Business Career Planning and Placement Office helps economics students land internships and full-time roles with Detroit-area employers.
85% of graduates are working or pursuing further study within six months, with average starting salaries around $55,000.
Wayne State has partnerships with the City of Detroit, the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago (Detroit Branch), and local nonprofits—offering direct industry exposure.
Accredited by HLC, the economics program emphasizes real-world policy issues and urban economics, ideal for students interested in social impact careers.
Alumni go on to make measurable contributions in government agencies, community planning groups, and business consulting firms.
Further Academic Progression:
After graduation, students frequently pursue master’s degrees in economics, public administration, urban planning, or social policy—or attend law school to broaden their impact in public service or regulatory roles.
Transcripts from the previously attended schools, High school transcripts, ACT or SAT test scores, English language profeciency (Minimum scores of 79-80 TOEFL iBT and IELTS 6.5 )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
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
Wayne State University
