UIC - Department of Economics - College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Why Major in Economics?

Economics is the study of how societies, governments, businesses, households, and individuals allocate their scarce resources. It is an exciting and increasingly important field of study. Students who major in economics graduate with certain core competencies which are valuable in the job market.

These include:

strong background in microeconomic and macroeconomic theory
knowledge about economic institutions
knowledge in various applied areas of economics
ability to use the analytical tools of economics in problem solving
knowledge of relevant mathematical and statistical techniques
expertise in the use of computers for the analysis of data

The skills listed above provide a strong preparation for many careers in banking, insurance, service and manufacturing firms, labor unions, business associations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Possible job titles for students graduating with a major in economics include the following:

Real estate specialist

International trade specialist

Labor relations researcher

Commodities trader

Commodity analyst

Environmental specialist

Investment banking analyst

Economic news analyst

Compensation administrator

Natural resources specialist

Market research specialist

Assistant to chief economist

Technical writer

Public affairs officer

Economic research consultant

Financial analyst

Population studies analyst

Urban affairs specialist

Data analyst

Transportation planner

Urban/ regional planner

Human resources specialist

A major in economics is also an excellent background for students who intend to continue their studies beyond the bachelor's degree. In particular, it is a very good preparation for law school, MBA programs, programs in public administration, master's and PhD programs in economics, and graduate school in other business and social science disciplines.