Program Overview
A bachelor’s degree in economics at the University of Kansas equips students with analytical and critical thinking skills to understand complex economic systems, policy implications, and global markets. Students in this economics major learn to apply economic theory to real-world problems, develop advanced data analysis techniques, and explore how businesses, governments, and individuals make strategic financial decisions in both domestic and international contexts.
Through a bachelor’s in economics, students build strong foundations in microeconomic and macroeconomic theory while developing quantitative reasoning, statistical analysis, and problem-solving skills. Coursework emphasizes how incentives shape behavior, how markets allocate resources, and how public policies influence economic outcomes. Students also gain experience interpreting empirical research, constructing economic models, and using data to evaluate competing policy or business strategies.
KU offers three paths within the economics major: the Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of General Studies (BGS), and Bachelor of Science (BS). The BA and BGS provide a broad liberal arts education with a strong foundation in economic theory, global economic systems, and policy analysis. The BS option within the bachelor’s degree in economics places additional emphasis on mathematics, statistics, and econometrics, making it especially well suited for students interested in finance, analytics, research, or graduate study in economics or related quantitative fields.
Students pursuing a major in economics benefit from close interaction with faculty who specialize in areas such as labor economics, public finance, econometrics, macroeconomic policy, industrial organization, and international trade. Across all degree options, the curriculum develops the ability to define economic problems clearly, apply formal models, interpret statistical evidence, and communicate findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
The curriculum also supports students interested in a business economics major–style pathway by combining economic theory with applications in finance, markets, and organizational decision-making. Whether analyzing inflation trends, evaluating labor markets, or assessing regulatory policy, students graduate prepared to apply economic reasoning to complex real-world challenges.
Learn more about KU
Undergraduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Economics, BA/BS/BGSKU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Bachelor’s of Economics is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, home to a collaborative and creative community making the world better through inquiry and research.Bachelor in Economics Learning Outcomes
Graduates earning a bachelor’s in economics will be able to:
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of core microeconomic and macroeconomic theories and explain how these frameworks apply to markets and policy.
- Formulate and analyze economic models to evaluate individual, firm, and government decision-making.
- Apply statistical and econometric methods to interpret economic data and empirical research.
- Use quantitative reasoning and critical thinking to assess real-world economic issues.
- Communicate economic arguments and evidence effectively in written and oral formats.
- Evaluate public policies, market outcomes, and business strategies using economic principles.
These outcomes ensure that students completing the bachelor’s degree in economics are equipped with analytical, quantitative, and communication skills valued across industries.
What Careers Are Possible with a Bachelor in Economics?
A bachelor’s degree in economics prepares students for a wide range of professional opportunities requiring analytical and quantitative expertise. According to Lightcast, individuals with economics training benefit from strong employment demand across finance, consulting, government, and data-focused roles.
Common economics major jobs include:
- Economics major jobs: Market analyst, financial consultant, policy advisor
- Business economics jobs: Financial analyst, data scientist, business consultant
- Entry-level economics jobs: Research assistant, risk analyst, investment analyst
Students interested in corporate strategy or finance often pursue roles aligned with a business economics major focus, including investment analysis, risk management, and strategic planning. Public-sector pathways include positions in government agencies, regulatory bodies, and research institutions.
While economics major salary outcomes vary by industry and experience level, roles in finance, analytics, and consulting typically report competitive compensation and long-term growth potential. Many graduates also pursue graduate study to expand career mobility and earning potential.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid opportunities to help students pursue their economics degree. Visit KU Financial Aid for information on scholarships, grants, and loans.Admission Requirements
All students interested in the bachelor’s degree in economics must meet the standard University of Kansas admission requirements for incoming freshman and transfer students. This includes:
Freshman
- 3.25 high school GPA OR
- An official ACT score of at least 21 or an official SAT score of at least 1060 with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
Transfer
- Assured admission with 24+ transferrable credit hours with a 2.5+ GPA from a regionally accredited higher education institution.
For detailed admission requirements, visit KU Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Students enrolled in the bachelor’s in economics engage in hands-on learning that connects theory to practice. Opportunities include:
- Faculty-mentored research in areas such as public policy, labor markets, macroeconomic trends, and international trade
- Internship placements with corporations, financial institutions, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies
- Study abroad programs that broaden understanding of global economic systems
Students in the economics major can participate in the Economics Club and Omicron Delta Epsilon, the international honor society for economics. Guest lectures, networking events, and student research presentations provide additional professional development and community engagement opportunities.
Bachelor in Economics Sample Courses
Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in economics complete foundational coursework in economic theory and quantitative methods, along with advanced electives tailored to their interests and chosen degree path. Core courses typically include:
- Principles of Microeconomics
- Principles of Macroeconomics
- Microeconomic Theory
- Macroeconomic Theory
- Applied Econometrics
Electives may explore public finance, labor economics, monetary policy, industrial organization, or international economics. For a complete list of courses and degree requirements, consult the KU Catalog:
Bachelor’s in Economics Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in four years.