CAREER OPTIONS FOR ECONOMICS MAJORS
What’s one of the most popular questions asked in this office? It’s “What can I do with a major in economics?” And the answer? Practically anything and everything.
Yes, it’s true. Your career options as an economics major are endless. Yet, this is why many students struggle to figure out what to do after college. Don’t worry. The ECDO is here to help you.
One of the reasons that economics majors can pursue almost any career is because of the skills gained through economics coursework. As an economics major you should:
- Be able to analytically and critically solve complex problems,
- Be skilled in observation and inference from data, and
- Be adept in presenting ideas in compelling writing and speech.
| Research/Analysis Generating/developing ideas Organizing materials Designing projects Analyzing results Applying statistical methods Testing an idea/hypothesis |
Financial/Data Maintaining accurate records Tabulating data Manipulating numerical data Developing budgets Cost analysis/projections Preparing financial reports/statements |
| Problem Solving Assessing needs Defining problems Reviewing/evaluating goals Relating theory to practice Applying quantitative analysis Generating solutions Evaluating policies Projecting/forecasting results |
Communication Writing reports/articles Reading/interpreting relevant reports/statements Summarizing data Writing grant proposals Analyzing data Sizing up an audience Speaking clearly Presenting proposals reports |
CAREER PATHS
To help you define your career goals we’ve provided information on the typical paths economics majors pursue. For each path we have included information on relevant UW-Madison courses we believe will be beneficial for you to complete. In addition, we included the Take 5 section, which lists five courses outside of the economics department that would also be relevant as a supplement to your economics course work.
This is a guide only; you are not required to take all courses listed. Be aware that not all courses are offered each semester. Work with your academic advisor each semester to ensure you enroll in the correct courses and are completing all requirements.
Each section on this page also lists sample job titles to look for as you search for an internship or your first professional position. You will also find other career resources listed that are specific to that career path.
Business, Banking, and Finance
Economic Development
Entrepreneurship
Federal Reserve Public Finance
Government
Graduate School in Economics
Healthcare
International Trade
Law
Marketing and Retail
Public Policy
Real Estate and Urban Planning
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Last updated: August 28, 2013