Economics

The Bachelor of Arts in Economics at The University of Utah offers students a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles that shape our economy and influence everyday life. This program is designed to develop analytical skills, critical thinking, and a solid foundation in economic theories, enabling graduates to address complex issues in both public and private sectors. Throughout their studies, students explore diverse topics including microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and various applied fields such as public policy, international economics, and behavioral economics. The curriculum emphasizes quantitative methods and data analysis, preparing students to interpret economic data, make informed decisions, and evaluate policy impacts effectively.

Students in the program have opportunities to engage in research projects, internships, and collaborations with faculty members who are experts in their fields, fostering a practical understanding of economic issues. The program also emphasizes the development of communication skills, allowing students to articulate complex economic concepts clearly and confidently. Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Economics are well-equipped for careers in finance, government, consulting, nonprofit organizations, and academia. Many students also choose to pursue graduate studies to specialize further or to prepare for advanced professional roles. With a strong foundation in economic theory and practical application, the program aims to prepare students to become informed citizens, innovative thinkers, and effective problem solvers in a dynamic global economy.

(All Ph.D. students are expected to be enrolled full-time (12 credit hours) during their first year)

Fall Semester

• ECON 7002 - Quantitative Methods II 3 Credit(s)
• ECON 7003 - Political Economy and Critique I 3 Credit(s)
• ECON 7005 - Microeconomic Theory I 3 Credit(s)
• ECON 7007 - Macroeconomic Theory I 3 Credit(s)

Spring Semester

• ECON 7004 - Political Economy and Critique II 3 Credit(s)
• ECON 7006 - Microeconomic Theory II 3 Credit(s)
• ECON 7008 - Macroeconomic Theory II 3 Credit(s)
• ECON 7590 - Econometrics 3 Credit(s)

Additional Information

Three qualifying exams are given during the summer following the first year covering Micro, Macro and Political Economy. Students must pass all three exams. Students are allowed to retake these exams only once.

Methodology Seminars

(Complete 1 course in your second or third year)

• ECON 7400 - Economic History I 3 Credit(s)
• ECON 7600 - History of Economic Doctrines I 3 Credit(s)
• ECON 7601 - History of Economic Doctrines II 3 Credit(s)

Fields of Specialization and Electives

(Complete 2 fields of specialization)

Two-Semester Fields

• International Economics
• Economic Doctrines
• Advanced Monetary Theory
• Development Economics
• Labor/Gender Economics
• Finance
• Environmental and Natural Resource Economics
• Econometrics

One-Semester Fields

• Economic History
• Health Economics

Additional Information

Each field will typically be offered every other year, except for Econometrics, which is offered every year.

Upon completion of the relevant field course(s), students are required to demonstrate competence in each of their two fields. This requires writing a research paper over and above the course requirements in one field of the student’s choice, with the approval of the topic by the instructors in the field, after the completion of the course. This research paper may serve as the foundation of the student’s subsequent dissertation work. This paper must be completed and submitted to the relevant field instructors within one year of completion of the coursework in the field. In the other field, the requirement can be fulfilled through an exam, a paper, or another method as determined by the instructors in the field. If the requirement is a field exam, the exam must be taken at its next scheduled offering after completion of the field courses. It may be retaken only once in the case of failure. The department revisits the fields list periodically and makes changes as deemed necessary in response to changes in student and faculty interests and department resources.

Additional elective courses may also be offered in areas including (but not limited to) econometrics, industrial organization, public economics, and Marxian economics subject to student demand, faculty resources, and the discretion of the chair. Including the field and methodology courses, students are required to take 24 credit hours (equivalent to eight courses) following the completion of core courses. Elective courses must be chosen from economics courses at the 7000 level. Exceptions can be made after consultation with the director of the graduate program.

Dissertation Research

Complete 14 credit hours. Dissertation research typically begins during the third year. Throughout the dissertation stage, student research is supervised by a committee of faculty who are expert in the student’s area of study.

• ECON 7970 - Thesis Research: Ph.D. 1 - 20 Credit(s)

• Bachelor’s degree from accredited college or university.
• Minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0.
• Successful completion of intermediate microeconomic and macroeconomic theory.
• Acceptable GRE scores on verbal, quantitative, and analytical components.
• Three academic reference letters.
• A brief statement of personal academic goals.
• TOEFL score of 500 or better (or IBT equivalent) or IELTS of 5 or above (international students only).

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Utah offers a comprehensive financial aid and scholarship program to support students enrolled in the Economics undergraduate degree. Undergraduate students pursuing Economics can access a variety of financial resources, including federal and state grants, scholarships provided by the university, and work-study opportunities. The university’s Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid provides detailed information on eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines.

Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for federal grants such as the Pell Grant, which is aimed at undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need. The university also offers specific scholarships for Economics students, which are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and financial need. These include merit-based scholarships, departmental scholarships, and private scholarships funded by alumni and local organizations.

Additionally, the university provides work-study opportunities, allowing students to earn money to help offset educational costs while gaining valuable work experience. These positions are available both on and off-campus in various departments and offices. Loan options, including federal direct loans, are also available for eligible students who require additional funding.

The university’s financial aid counselors assist students in creating personalized financial plans, exploring all available resources, and understanding repayment options for loans. Financial planning sessions are offered regularly to help students manage their educational expenses effectively. International students and out-of-state residents should review specific eligibility requirements for financial aid programs, as they may differ from in-state students.

Students pursuing an Economics degree are strongly encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities from government agencies, private foundations, and industry associations to further support their education. The university’s financial aid program is designed to ensure that qualified students can afford a high-quality education in Economics at the University of Utah without undue financial burden.

The Economics program at The University of Utah offers students a comprehensive education in the principles, theories, and applications of economics. The program is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in microeconomics and macroeconomics, along with quantitative skills and analytical tools necessary for understanding economic issues at local, national, and global levels. Students have the opportunity to explore diverse areas such as economic theory, development economics, international economics, labor economics, public economics, and financial economics. The curriculum combines coursework in economic analysis, statistics, and mathematics, preparing graduates for careers in government, business, consulting, finance, and research, or for pursuing advanced degrees.

The university emphasizes a strong research component, providing access to state-of-the-art resources, faculty expertise, and real-world economic data. The program curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect current economic challenges and trends. Students can engage in various experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, research projects, and collaborations with industry partners, to enhance their practical knowledge and skills. The department also hosts seminars, workshops, and conferences that foster academic and professional development.

Graduates of the Economics program at The University of Utah have gone on to successful careers in economics, finance, public policy, and academia. Many alumni pursue graduate studies at prestigious institutions worldwide. The program encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, which are highly valued across multiple sectors. The university’s location provides additional opportunities for internships and employment with governmental agencies, financial institutions, and private corporations in Utah and beyond. Overall, the Economics program prepares students to analyze complex economic issues, make informed decisions, and contribute positively to society.

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