Anything from taxes to labor disputes to the weather can impact the economy.

Economics is a social science that delves into the fascinating world of the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. Using our unique blend of complex models, theories, and data analysis, we investigate the intricate interconnections and constantly evolving dynamics of the modern economy.

Do you ever wonder how the price of your favorite snack, or the availability of your dream job is determined? Or how a simple weather phenomenon like a hurricane can cause a ripple effect on the economy? Economics majors are the designers behind unraveling these mysteries of the global market. We explore everything from tax policies to labor disputes, from the latest technological advancements to the unpredictable forces of Mother Nature.

Emmanuel’s economics minor, while a natural fit for those pursuing management degrees, can also be an exciting complement to sociology, political science, education, and many others.

A First-Class Experience

Get to know the people and programs that will define your academic journey.

Explore your Interests and earn Real World Experience

"With these internships, I've carved a path that aligns with my interests, and I’ve cultivated a lot of connections that will definitely be very beneficial for me going forward." -Cameron Howard ’25

Meet the Faculty

Our distinguished faculty publish, exhibit and research. Present, compose and chair. Inspire and collaborate.

The Curriculum

View the 2023-2024 Academic Catalog to find course titles, numbers and descriptions.

Requirements for a B.A. in Economics:

  • ECON1101 Principles of Microeconomics (SA) (SS)
  • ECON1103 Principles of Macroeconomics (SA) (SS)
  • MATH1121 Applied Math (QA) (QR) OR MATH1111 Calculus I (QA) (QR)
  • MATH1118 Introduction to Statistics with R (QA) (QR)
  • ECON2101 History of Economic Thought
  • ECON2301 Intermediate Microeconomics (SA)
  • ECON2303 Intermediate Macroeconomics (SA)
  • ECON4201 Economics Senior Seminar

Three electives, two of which must be at the 3000-level, from:

  • ECON2113 Politics of International Economic Relations (SS)
  • ECON2203/FINAN2203 Economic Development (SA) (SS)
  • ECON2205 Urban Economics
  • ECON3103/FINAN3103 International Economics and Finance
  • ECON3105/FINAN3105 Money and Financial Markets
  • ECON3113 Economics of Health Care
  • ECON3115 Economics of the Environment
  • ECON3296 Economics Internship

B.S. in Economics 

Requirements for Major:

  • MATH1118 Introduction to Statistics with R  (QA) (QR)
  • MATH1111 Calculus I (QA) (QR)
  • ECON1101 Principles of Microeconomics (SA) (SS)
  • ECON1103 Principles of Macroeconomics (SA) (SS)
  • ECON2301 Intermediate Microeconomics (SA)
  • ECON2303 Intermediate Macroeconomics (SA)
  • ECON2101 History of Economic Thought (WI)
  • ECON3346 Applied Forecasting
  • ECON3376 Econometric Theory and Practice
  • ECON 4201 Senior Seminar Capstone

Five Electives (four of which must be at 3000 level) from:

  • ECON2113 Politics of International Economic Relations (SS)
  • ECON2203/FINAN2203 Economic Development (SA) (SS)
  • ECON2205 Urban Economics
  • ECON3103/FINAN3103 International Economics and Finance
  • ECON3105/FINAN3105 Money and Financial Markets
  • ECON3109/FINAN3109 Public Finance
  • ECON3113 Economics of Health Care

View the 2023-2024 Academic Catalog to find course titles, numbers and descriptions.

Requirements for Minor in Economics:

  • ECON1101 Principles of Microeconomics (SA) (SS)
  • ECON1103 Principles of Macroeconomics (SA) (SS)
  • ECON2101 History of Economic Thought
  • Two economics courses at the 2000-level or above, where at least one is at the 3000-level or above

 At the completion of the Economics Major, students will:

  1. Demonstrate critical thinking using economic analysis, quantitative reasoning, and problem-solving skills.
  2. Communicate effectively: in written, oral and graphical formats, using concepts and analytical tools economics.
  3. Have lifelong learning skills, including how to locate and use primary data, how to understand and evaluate current events and new ideas.

What can I do with a degree in economics?

Economics graduates possess a diverse skill set that makes them valuable in various industries, including finance, government, academia, and the private sector. Here are some of the most in-demand skills for economics graduates:

  • Analytical Skills: The ability to analyze data, identify trends, and interpret economic phenomena. This includes proficiency in using statistical software such as R, Stata, SAS, and SPSS.
  • Quantitative Skills: Strong mathematical and statistical skills are essential for conducting economic analyses, creating models, and interpreting quantitative data.
  • Critical Thinking: The ability to critically evaluate economic theories, policies, and data, and to make reasoned judgments based on evidence.
  • Research Skills: Conducting thorough research, including designing studies, collecting data, and analyzing results. This is crucial for roles in academia, policy analysis, and consulting.
  • Data Analysis: Proficiency in handling and analyzing large datasets. This often involves using data analysis tools such as Excel, Python, SQL, and various econometric software packages.
  • Economic Modeling: Building and interpreting economic models to predict outcomes, assess economic policies, and understand economic behaviors.
  • Communication Skills: The ability to clearly communicate complex economic concepts and findings to both technical and non-technical audiences. This includes strong writing and presentation skills.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to apply economic principles and techniques to solve real-world problems. This includes understanding and addressing issues such as market inefficiencies, economic inequality, and policy impacts.
  • Understanding of Economic Theory: A solid grasp of both microeconomic and macroeconomic theories and their applications in various contexts.
  • Policy Analysis: Evaluating and developing public policies, understanding their economic implications, and providing recommendations based on economic principles.
  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with software and tools used in economic analysis, such as MATLAB, EViews, and Tableau.
  • Project Management: Managing projects, including planning, executing, and monitoring economic research and analysis projects.
  • Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy in data analysis, model building, and interpretation of results to avoid errors and misinterpretations.
  • Global Perspective: Understanding global economic issues, international trade, and finance, which is particularly valuable for roles in international organizations and multinational corporations.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Working effectively in teams, collaborating with colleagues, and building professional relationships.
  • Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing economic conditions, regulations, and technologies. Staying updated with current economic trends and developments is important.
  • Ethical Awareness: Understanding the ethical implications of economic policies and decisions, and conducting analyses with integrity.

These skills equip economics graduates to pursue careers in various fields, including banking, finance, government, consulting, academia, and international organizations.

Economics majors have a wide array of career paths available to them, given their analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills. Here are some common jobs and career paths for economics majors:

  • Economic Analyst: Analyze economic data, trends, and policies to provide insights and forecasts for government agencies, think tanks, consulting firms and research institutions.
  • Financial Analyst: Evaluate financial data, assess investment opportunities, and provide recommendations with various teams at banks, investment firms, corporations and insurance companies.
  • Market Research Analyst: Study market conditions to identify potential sales opportunities and understand consumer behavior for market research firms, advertising agencies, corporations and more/
  • Policy Analyst: Research and evaluate the impact of public policies and provide recommendations for policy development within government agencies, non-profit organizations and think tanks.
  • Data Analyst: Analyze data for tech companies, healthcare organizations, financial institutions, retail companies and more to help organizations make informed business decisions.
  • Economist: Conduct research, analyze economic issues, and publish findings in reports or academic journals for Government agencies, international organizations (e.g., IMF, World Bank), universities and research institutions.
  • Actuary: Analyze financial risks using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to study uncertain future events. Actuaries are employed within insurance companies, consulting firms, government agencies and more.
  • Public Policy Advisor: Advise government officials on economic policy and public finance.
  • Statistician: Collect, analyze, and interpret data to solve real-world problems in business, engineering, government, healthcare, or other fields.
  • International Trade Specialist: Analyze global trade policies and advise businesses on international trade issues.
  • Investment Analyst: Evaluate investment opportunities and provide recommendations to fund managers or individual investors at hedge fund, mutual fund or other private equity firms.
  • Non-Profit Manager: Oversee operations, fundraising, and strategy for non-profit organizations focused on economic development or social issues.
  • Environmental Economist: Study the economic impacts of environmental policies and natural resource management within government agencies, environmental organizations, consulting firms and more.
  • Urban Planner: Develop plans and programs for land use in urban areas, considering economic, social, and environmental factors.
  • Healthcare Economist: Analyze economic issues in healthcare, such as the cost-effectiveness of treatments and healthcare policies.

These career paths leverage the analytical, quantitative, and strategic thinking skills developed through an economics degree. Economics graduates can find opportunities in both the public and private sectors, making this field versatile and in-demand.

Where Essential Values and Skills Meet the Real World

Where Essential Values and Skills Meet the Real World

Along with areas of knowledge and major requirements, you will cultivate essential values in the classroom and complete two courses in each area:

  • Social Justice (SJ): Develop knowledge, skills, values and motivation to participate beneficially in activities of personal and public concern.
  • Diversity & Multiculturalism (DM): Understand the complexity of identity the historical truths of different cultural perspectives to address bias and examine contemporary social issues. 

One hundred percent of Emmanuel students complete an internship as part of the core curriculum. In a city as dynamic as Boston, your options are bound only by the limits of your curiosity.

Students from the School of Business & Management intern at all Big 4 accounting agencies, major financial institutions such as Morgan Stanley and Bank of America, and creative agencies and cultural organizations such as Hill Holliday and the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

In all majors, the Capstone Experience involves completing a significant piece of work that requires the integration and application of learning from multiple courses.

For students in the School of Business & Management, capstone courses blend theory and practice, with experiences ranging from live case consulting, research and analysis on current industry topics, the assessment of company performance and strategy and thesis presentations.

Related Programs

Specialize your Economics major with additional coursework in these areas