Careers in Economics
Photo of stock market trends by Adam Śmigielski on Unsplash
Where smart decisions start.
Economics is more than charts. It’s a powerful way to understand how people, businesses and governments make decisions and how those decisions shape the world. Here, you’ll gain the tools to ask the right questions, dive into data and help solve big challenges from climate change to global markets.
Economists study how society uses limited resources—like land, labor and capital—to produce and distribute goods and services. Their work involves:
- Collecting and analyzing data
- Monitoring economic trends
- Modeling and forecasting outcomes
- Advising businesses, governments or nonprofits on policy and strategy
From global markets to local communities, economists bring insight to issues like inflation, taxes, unemployment, energy and economic growth.
As the economy evolves and data becomes more available, economists are stepping up to help navigate uncertainty, shape policy and uncover new insights. At UB, we prepare students to meet that demand with a strong foundation in theory, analytics and real-world problem solving.
Our graduates are ready to:
- Analyze data that drives decision-making
- Forecast economic trends and risks
- Evaluate public policy and corporate strategy
- Lead teams, shape conversations and make a lasting impact
Skills you’ll build at UB
Through hands-on research, data-driven coursework and applied experiences, you’ll gain:
- Analytical and critical thinking
- Statistical modeling and econometrics
- Data visualization and communication
- Strong foundations in micro, macro and applied economics
Whether you're heading into finance, law, public policy or tech, these skills set you apart.
Economists are well-compensated for their expertise. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Median Pay: $115,440 per year
- Top Industries: Federal government, scientific research, finance, consulting
- Job Outlook: Projected to grow faster than average for all occupations
👉 Explore the Occupational Outlook Handbook
Or use the Career Design Center’s Job Market Stats to explore real-world salary and employment trends by industry or region.
Economics is your gateway to careers in:
- Finance and Business: Brokerage firms, investment banks, retail banking, insurance, consulting, and corporate strategy
- Government and Policy: Federal Reserve, U.S. Census Bureau, local and federal agencies, policy think tanks
- International Organizations: World Bank, IMF, United Nations
- Tech and Data Analytics: Startups, research labs, fintech and more
- Graduate and Professional School: Economics is a great foundation for law school, MBA programs, public policy, and PhDs
Popular job titles
- Economist (public or private sector)
- Policy Analyst
- Consultant Economist
- Forensic Economist
- Urban Planner
- Financial Analyst
- Investment Advisor
- Financial Planning and Analysis Manager
- Actuary
- Strategic Planner
- Program Planner
- Resource Planning Analyst
- Analytics Manager
- Global Pricing Manager
- Healthcare Economics Analyst
- Medical Economics Consultant
- Clinical Studies Manager
- Market Research Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Energy Efficiency Analyst
The Career Design Center helps you plan your next step—whether it’s a job, grad school or internship.
What you’ll find there:
- One-on-one career design consulting
- Help with job/internship searches and grad school planning
- Job and internship fairs, networking events and career skillshops
- Access to real-world employment and salary data through Job Market Stats
Ready to launch your future in economics?