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The Bachelor of Arts in Economics provides students with a deep and analytical understanding of how individuals, firms, and governments make choices and how these decisions influence markets, policy, and global systems. The curriculum integrates microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, quantitative analysis, and critical reasoning to prepare students for addressing complex economic challenges. Students explore key topics such as resource allocation, market behavior, income distribution, and international trade while learning to interpret real-world economic trends through data and evidence-based thinking. The program emphasizes both abstract modeling and practical application, enabling students to connect theory with economic policy and business strategy.
Through a carefully structured sequence of core courses and electives, students develop technical competencies in statistics, econometrics, and research methods, while gaining insights into specialized areas such as labor economics, public finance, and development economics. This interdisciplinary approach makes the degree highly relevant to contemporary issues like inequality, climate policy, innovation, and globalization. Students also benefit from faculty-led research opportunities, internships, and seminars that provide practical exposure to economics in action. With strong quantitative skills and a deep understanding of economic principles, graduates are equipped to engage meaningfully with policy debates and economic decision-making in a range of settings.
Year 1
• Introduction to Microeconomics
• Principles of Macroeconomics
• Mathematics for Economists
• Global Economic Issues
Year 2
• Intermediate Microeconomics
• Intermediate Macroeconomics
• Introduction to Econometrics
• Economic History or Public Policy
Year 3
• Advanced Topics in Economics
• Applied Econometrics
• Development Economics or Industrial Organization
• Research Methods and Policy Analysis
Year 4
• Senior Seminar in Economic Theory
• Capstone Research Project
• Elective: Behavioral Economics or International Trade
• Independent Study or Internship Option
Economics graduates are equipped with analytical, statistical, and critical thinking skills that make them highly sought-after in a wide variety of sectors. Common career paths include roles in financial institutions, government agencies, international organizations, and consulting firms, where graduates may work as analysts, economists, policy advisors, or data specialists. The degree also opens doors to positions in economic journalism, market research, business strategy, and nonprofit evaluation. Those with a deeper interest in academia or high-level policy work often pursue advanced degrees in economics, public policy, business, or law. Thanks to the program’s quantitative rigor and real-world relevance, students graduate with the ability to model economic behavior, interpret data, and provide actionable insights that shape business and policy decisions in both domestic and global contexts.
This program stands out for its balanced approach, combining economic theory, data analysis, and practical application to address today’s most urgent issues. It fosters a mindset of inquiry and rigor, encouraging students to question assumptions and evaluate solutions through empirical evidence. Whether examining the forces behind inflation, exploring the impact of technology on labor markets, or designing tax policy, students gain not only the tools to analyze but also the context to understand and act. The program also emphasizes adaptability, preparing students for fast-changing economies and evolving job markets. With access to experienced faculty, research opportunities, and interdisciplinary perspectives, students graduate as well-rounded economists ready to engage critically, think quantitatively, and contribute thoughtfully to the complex economic landscapes of the 21st century.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 401 863 1000
Email: admissions@brown.edu
Address: University of Brown, Providence, RI 02912, United States