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
Winter 2025 Admission Cycle (for 2025 Spring Quarter Admission to ECON) Updates:
The Economics major application is now open! Applications are due at 11:59pm on Friday, January 17th. Submit your application online using our Google Form.
The RTW Assessment will be held on Friday, January 10th from 4-5 PM, in SAV 260. The RTW is a required part of the major application. Register for the exam online using Microsoft Forms (closes January 8 at 11:59pm).
Have questions about the application process? Consider attending a workshop/info session! Winter quarter sessions will be held via Zoom. If you plan to attend a session, please RSVP. Registration is not required, but is appreciated so we can best plan to support each event.
- December 11, 3-4 pm
- December 13, 11am-12pm
- January 6, 3-3:30 pm (RTW info only) Zoom Link
- January 7, 11am-12pm Zoom Link
- January 15, 3-3:30pm (personal statement/application process info only) Zoom Link
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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