Major in Economics

Why study economics?

The economics major is highly prized because it is both versatile and valuable. It is one of the most popular majors at every premier university in the country, including Notre Dame.

The undergraduate economics major within the College of Arts and Letters allows you to acquire strong quantitative, analytical, and communications skills in the context of a liberal arts curriculum. The program will provide you with the insights of scientific analysis and social perspective to deepen your understanding of the complex economic forces at work in society.

What will I study?

The economics major focuses on “core” courses in theory and research methods. The rigorous nature of these courses enables you to effectively compete in the job and graduate school market with your peers from other top universities. You will learn how to apply these theories and methods to the world around you.

The economics major goes beyond just the study of numbers. It will prepare you for a variety of professional objectives, including careers in data analytics, economic research, public service, and law, as well as managerial positions in business and industry.

Learn more about the requirements for the economics major.

What can I do with an economics major?

Our recent graduates receive excellent job placements in a wide range of fields, including:

• Consulting
• Analytics
• Marketing
• Banking
• Communications
• Sports
• Retail
• Insurance
• Technology

Many also pursue graduate school in the humanities and sciences, or full-time service work for a year or more, seeking to make a difference in the world by helping others.

Programs offered

The department also offers a concentration in financial economics and econometrics. This selective program fills a need for additional training in applied quantitative economic reasoning. The coursework for the concentration will provide fast-paced and rigorous training in financial economics that will prepare you for careers in investment management, banking, research, and policy-making.

There is also an honors track available for students who meet certain criteria. This program provides you with an opportunity to pursue a year-long independent research project under the direction of a faculty member with additional mentorship provided through a senior honors workshop.