Economics
Photo by Natalee Waters for Virginia Tech.

Students in the Economics program study economic issues at the state, national, and international levels. Areas of focus include Economics of Healthcare, Environmental Economics, Behavioral economics, Neuroeconomics, Experimental Economics, International Economics, and Big Data Economics.
Major
Economics
Economists develop theories to explain how the components of the economy like individual people, companies, and the government operate and interact with one another. We gather data to estimate the relationships among the various aspects of the economy. Based on these analyses, economists predict how people and companies will respond to changes in policies and external forces. These predictions, in turn, help guide private and public decision-makers to form appropriate policies. One of the best things about Economics is that the demand for economics majors is strong in the private sector and government. Economics is also great preparation for graduate school, whether you are leaning towards business, law, public policy, or going on to become an economist yourself! If you’re still deciding, the flexibility that economics offers can help you keep your options open.
Economics with Business Option
Great option if you prefer a more structured program and have an interest in Business. This option includes introductory courses in Accounting, Finance, Management and Marketing as part of the major requirements along with using Business Infortmation Technology courses to meet the Statistics requirement. Allows for 7-9 credit hours of FREE ELECTIVES.
Economics with Managerial Economics and Data Science Option
The Managerial Economics and Data Science (MEDS) option is tailored toward students interested in careers in data science and consulting. Allows for 24-25 credit hours of FREE ELECTIVES.
Economics with Policy and Regulation Option
The Policy and Regulation option is tailored toward students interested in careers in policy, non-profits, government agencies, and professional graduate degrees such as law and public policy. Allows for 24-25 credit hours of FREE ELECTIVES.
Economics with Business Option
Great option if you prefer a more structured program and have an interest in Business. This option includes introductory courses in Accounting, Finance, Management and Marketing as part of the major requirements along with using Business Infortmation Technology courses to meet the Statistics requirement. Allows for 7-9 credit hours of FREE ELECTIVES.
Career paths
- Federal, state, and local government agencies and contractors from the CIA to the Department of Agriculture
- International organizations such as the United Nations (UN), European Union (EU), World Bank, World Trade Organization (WTO), and Red Cross.
- Medical care and research
- Legal firms
- Engineering
- Data and Analytical firms
- Banking and Financial Institutions
Learn More
Visit the Department of Economics
Visit Virtually
Schedule a virtual tour with the College of Science Undergraduate Recruiter