Economics Major Options
The Department of Economics offers 6 major options for students to choose from. Choose a specific track to focus your studies, or complete a general Economics option to have more flexibility in your classes. Click on the buttons below to learn about the curriculum and requirements for each option.
Note about declaring options: A student admitted to the Economics BA or BS may declare an option of the same degree without an additional application. For example, a student admitted to the ECON BA may declare International Economics and is guaranteed that option. In order to declare the BS options, a student must be eligible for and accepted to the general ECON BS.
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
The Economics BA majors are 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 tracks provide 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.
Economics Economics: International
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
A Bachelor of Science in Economics requires a more intensive background in math and statistics, reflecting the distinctive quantitative character of modern economics. These options are especially suitable for students intending to go on to graduate study in economics and related fields such as finance.
Economics Economics: Data Science Economics: Strategy Financial Economics
Certificates
The Certificate program will be phased out over the 2025-2026 academic year as we implement the new major options. Students currently in the major as of Autumn 2025 may still complete and receive a certificate. More information can be found on our certificates page.
Student Engagement
Want to be more involved in the department? Check out the opportunities below for some great ways to connect with other students and deepen your Economics experience.
Departmental Honors Program - Economics Honors students work one-on-one with a Department of Economics faculty member on original research resulting in a senior thesis. Students must apply no later than winter quarter of their junior (or second to last) year.
Economics Undergraduate Board - The EUB is a group of undergraduate majors who liaises between students and department faculty/staff, in addition to collaborating on events with alumni and friends of the department. The EUB produces a quarterly newsletter, The Economizer, and offers free tutoring and a variety of seminars, study resources, and events.
UW Women in Economics - The UW Women in Economics group was established to address topics of interest to women studying or working in economics-related fields. WiE is run by alumni and student board members in partnership with the UW Department of Economics and offers networking and professional development opportunities to students.