Studying Economics
Economics studies the institutions and arrangements that are used to create, protect, and allocate scarce resources that have alternative uses. It advances our understanding of the behavior of individuals, firms, governments and other organizations. Economics’ deep intellectual roots, rigorous analytic methods, and powerful ability to explain and evaluate social phenomena make it an exceptionally rewarding field of study.
The Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Economics is for students who are intrigued by economic problems and questions and are attracted to economists’ challenging and analytical approach to explaining social phenomena. The BA provides an excellent preparation for employment in the private and public sectors, and for graduate study in a variety of fields, such as law and business.
The Bachelor of Science with a Major in Economics requires a more intensive background in math and statistics, reflecting the distinctive quantitative character of modern economics. It is especially suitable for students intending to go on to graduate study in economics and related fields such as finance.
Both the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science majors are designated Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) undergraduate programs.
Special programs for undergraduates include a departmental honors program; study abroad programs in France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, and Thailand; a mentorship program; and certificate programs in four areas of specialization: international economics, economic theory and quantitative methods, quantitative managerial economics, and environmental and natural resource economics.
For more information, see our department learning goals and attend a Prospective Student Information Session.
Academic Advising Updates
2024-2025 Scholarship Applications Available
We are now accepting applications from undergraduate Economics majors for four scholarships for the 2024-2025 academic year. Scholarships will be awarded starting Autumn 2024. To be eligible for these scholarships, students must be declared Economics majors and have a FAFSA on file. The application can be found here and is due on Friday, May 3.
The Agnes C. Nelson Memorial Scholarship is offered to students majoring in either Economics or Political Science, who demonstrate interest in both fields. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must have completed a minimum of 25 credits in political science and economics with at least 10 credits in each discipline and have a FAFSA on file. The application can be found here and is due on Friday, May 3.
Spring 2024 Admission Cycle (for 2024 Autumn Quarter Admission to ECON) Updates:
The Spring application cycle is now closed. Admissions decisions will be sent out via email on or before May 2nd, in time for Autumn 2024 course registration.
ADVISING OFFICE INFORMATION
Until further notice, the Economics Advising Office will be holding the vast majority of appointments through email, Zoom, and phones. Drop-in advising will continue to be held via Zoom (see below) throughout the quarter.
Click here for academic advising availability.
For the latest information regarding the UW’s news response to COVID-19/coronavirus, please see uw.edu/coronavirus.
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