Economics

The Bachelor of Arts in Economics at The University of British Columbia - Vancouver offers students an in-depth understanding of how economies function, both locally and globally. This comprehensive program is designed to equip students with analytical and quantitative skills essential for interpreting economic data, developing models, and making informed decisions in various economic contexts. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of topics, including microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, international trade, public economics, and developmental economics, providing a well-rounded foundation in economic theory and its practical applications.

Students will have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and participate in innovative projects that enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The program emphasizes a strong mathematical component, ensuring graduates are prepared for careers in finance, consulting, government, policy analysis, and academia. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, and hands-on research, students learn to analyze economic issues, evaluate policies, and communicate complex ideas effectively.

In addition to the core courses, students can customize their studies with electives that align with their interests, such as environmental economics, health economics, or international economics. The program also provides opportunities for internships and cooperative education placements, allowing students to gain practical experience and build professional networks within the field.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Economics at UBC are well-prepared to pursue advanced studies or enter the workforce in roles that require rigorous economic analysis and strategic thinking. The program’s multidisciplinary approach fosters a comprehensive understanding of economic theories, policies, and their real-world applications, making UBC graduates highly competitive in a global job market. With access to world-class faculty and research resources, students are encouraged to explore economic challenges and contribute innovative solutions to contemporary issues.

The Bachelor of Arts in Economics at The University of British Columbia - Vancouver offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to equip students with a deep understanding of economic theory, quantitative analysis, and real-world applications. The program covers a wide array of topics, including microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and various applied fields such as international trade, public policy, and development economics. Students will gain strong analytical skills through coursework that emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and modeling techniques essential for assessing economic issues and making informed decisions. The program encourages the development of a solid foundation in mathematical methods and statistical tools used to interpret economic data and evaluate policies. Students have opportunities to engage in research projects, internships, and seminars that connect theoretical concepts to current global economic challenges. Additionally, the program provides specialization options, allowing students to tailor their studies to areas such as financial economics, environmental economics, or health economics, fostering a versatile skill set adaptable to diverse career paths. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for careers in government, finance, consulting, research, and international organizations. The University of British Columbia's Economics program also emphasizes experiential learning, critical analysis, and ethical considerations, preparing students to contribute meaningfully to society and the global economy. Close engagement with faculty research and collaborative projects enhances the educational experience, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to navigate an ever-changing economic landscape.

Program requirements for Bachelor of Arts in Economics at The University of British Columbia – Vancouver include completing a minimum of 120 credits, which typically spans four years of full-time study. Students are advised to fulfill core courses such as Introduction to Microeconomics and Introduction to Macroeconomics to establish foundational knowledge. Advanced coursework includes electives in areas like International Economics, Development Economics, and Econometrics. Students must also complete a set of science and mathematics courses, including Calculus and Statistics, to support analytical skills essential for economic analysis. It is recommended that students engage in a capstone project or thesis in their final year to demonstrate comprehensive understanding and research capability. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in internships or co-op programs, which are available to enhance practical experience. The department requires students to maintain a minimum GPA, generally around 2.00 or higher, to remain in good academic standing. Some courses may have prerequisites, ensuring students acquire necessary background knowledge before progressing. Students may choose a specialization or concentration within Economics, such as Business Economics or Development Economics, which might influence specific course selections. Elective courses from related fields like Political Science, Sociology, or Environmental Studies are also encouraged to broaden contextual understanding. Language proficiency requirements may apply for international students. The program emphasizes the development of quantitative and critical thinking skills, fostering an understanding of economic theory and its application to real-world issues. Overall, fulfilling these requirements ensures that students graduate with a comprehensive understanding of economic principles, research methodologies, and practical applications, preparing them for careers in policy, business, or further academic pursuits.

The University of British Columbia offers various funding options for students enrolled in their Economics undergraduate program. Financial support is available through scholarships, awards, and bursaries based on academic achievement, financial need, or specific criteria such as leadership and community engagement. Prospective and current students are encouraged to apply for both merit-based awards and need-based bursaries to help mitigate the costs associated with their studies. Additionally, UBC's financial aid office provides comprehensive information on federal and provincial government student aid programs, including student loans and grants, which can be accessed by domestic students. Many students also seek external funding sources, such as scholarships from private organizations, industry partnerships, and alumni donors. The university offers work-study opportunities that enable students to gain practical experience while earning income to support their education. International students are advised to explore additional scholarships and funding opportunities tailored specifically for international students, including some that are exclusive to the Faculty of Arts or the specific Department of Economics. Tuition fees for the Economics program vary depending on the student's residency status, with domestic students generally paying lower tuition compared to international students. It is important for students to carefully review the fee schedule published annually by UBC and plan their finances accordingly. Graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in Economics have access to research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and fellowships, which provide financial support along with valuable academic experience. Overall, UBC is committed to making education accessible and affordable, offering a wide range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey.

The Bachelor of Arts in Economics at The University of British Columbia in Vancouver is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with a strong foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and real-world applications. The program offers a diverse curriculum that covers microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and various specialized fields such as development, international trade, environmental economics, and behavioral economics. Students have the flexibility to tailor their studies through elective courses and minors, allowing for a personalized academic experience that aligns with their career interests and academic goals.

The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to interpret complex economic data, preparing graduates for careers in government, finance, consulting, research, and academia. Students benefit from the university’s distinguished faculty members who are active researchers engaged in contemporary economic issues. Additionally, the university provides access to modern facilities, extensive library resources, and connections to local economic organizations, enhancing practical learning opportunities such as internships and research projects.

The program typically spans four years for a full-time undergraduate student and includes core courses, electives, and a possible capstone project or thesis component that encourages original research. Admission requirements generally include a competitive high school record, with particular emphasis on mathematics and analytical coursework, reflecting the quantitative nature of the discipline. For students interested in graduate studies or specialized fields, the undergraduate program offers a solid foundation for further academic pursuits.

The university also promotes experiential learning through co-op programs, which integrate paid work terms with academic coursework, providing valuable professional experience before graduation. Graduates of the Economics program at UBC Vancouver are well-prepared to enter various sectors or pursue graduate studies, benefiting from a rigorous academic environment that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills. The program’s reputation for academic excellence and its strategic location in Vancouver—one of Canada’s most vibrant economic hubs—offer additional advantages for networking and career development.