BA in Economics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Wayne State University

Program Overview

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

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Wayne State University, the BA in Economics program is designed to provide students with a robust blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are essential for success in today’s dynamic economic landscape. Students engage in experiential learning opportunities that allow them to apply classroom concepts to real-world situations, enhancing their understanding and preparing them for their future careers. The university offers a variety of facilities and tools that support this hands-on approach, ensuring that students are well-equipped to tackle economic challenges.

Here are some key features of the experiential learning opportunities available in the BA in Economics program:

- Internships: Students have access to a wide range of internship opportunities with local businesses, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, allowing them to gain valuable work experience and professional connections.

- Research Labs: The Economics Department has dedicated research facilities where students can collaborate with faculty on projects, utilizing data analysis and econometric software to conduct research.

- Software Tools: Students are trained in industry-standard software such as STATA, R, and Excel, which are essential for data analysis and economic modeling.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a key component of the curriculum, encouraging teamwork and the application of economic theories to solve real-world problems.

- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to local businesses and economic institutions, providing students with firsthand insights into economic practices and policies.

- Libraries and Resources: Wayne State’s libraries offer extensive resources, including access to economic databases and journals, which are invaluable for research and coursework.

- Institute for Economic Policy: This institute provides students with opportunities to engage in policy analysis and research, further enhancing their practical skills and understanding of economic issues.

These experiential learning components not only enrich the academic experience but also prepare students for successful careers in economics. If you’re interested in exploring more about the facilities and resources available at Wayne State University, you can find detailed information [here](https://wayne.edu/facilities).

Choosing to pursue a BA in Economics at Wayne State is a step towards a future filled with opportunities, and I’m excited for you to consider this path!

Progression & Future Opportunities

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.