B.S. in economics
Economics is the science of human choice — the study of how scarce resources are allocated among competing uses to satisfy human wants. Because many of these choices involve or affect business decision-makers, economics is a unique blend of liberal arts and business. The Department of Economics offers the undergraduate major through both the College of Humanities and Sciences and the School of Business.
The curriculum emphasizes quantitative and data analysis skills, with a focus on applying them to business, public policy and socioeconomic issues. Students who want to pair training in economics with exposure to business disciplines should consider the major in the School of Business.
Two Program Options: Business and Humanities and Sciences
No matter which option you choose, you’ll gain a strong foundation in quantitative and data analysis skills and learn to apply them to business, public policy and socioeconomic issues. You’ll also sharpen your communication skills to present your work professionally and with confidence.
Economics majors are offered through both the School of Business and the College of Humanities and Sciences. The coursework in economics is nearly identical, but the difference lies in the additional courses you take:
School of Business economics students complete the Business Foundation and Advanced Core, covering a wide array of business topics. This is excellent preparation for a business career or pairing with another business major.
College of Humanities and Sciences economics students take more liberal arts courses and have more electives, providing flexibility to explore varied interests or pursue a double major outside of business.
Fast-Track Your Future: Accelerated B.S. to M.A. in Economics
VCU offers an accelerated program that lets qualified economics majors earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in as little as five years. Students in the program can take up to 12 credit hours (four courses) of graduate-level economics classes during their senior year.
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Career opportunities
Undergraduate study in economics is strong preparation for careers in business, government and teaching, as well as for graduate study in economics and professional schools such as law, public administration and medicine. Specializing in economics equips students with analytical skills, a broad understanding of the economy and business organizations, and the ability to evaluate the costs and benefits of policies made by governments and businesses.
With their analytical, quantitative and decision-making skills, economics majors are highly sought after for a wide range of positions in management and sales. Their training also opens opportunities in large organizations that forecast business conditions and analyze economic data.
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I chose VCU because of its academic learning environment and diverse community. Specifically, I chose VCU School of Business because they offer great resources to us as students. I decided to major in economics after taking my principles classes because the framework we are taught to think with compliments the way I analyze situations. I like the multiple applications economics has in various fields.
JACOB W.
B.S. in economics, 2019