Bachelor of Arts [B.A] [Economics] From Kent State University

The Bachelor of Arts in Economics equips students with a variety of skills sought by employers, including conceptualizing and solving problems; understanding and analyzing data in decision making; and critical thinking skills. In their junior year, students learn microeconomic and macroeconomic theory which enables them to use economic modeling to understand a wide variety of issues; students also take an applied econometrics class where they learn to use statistical software to run regression analysis. Students then take a series of electives that deal with vital current topics relevant to many careers in which these theories and skills are applied, such as our financial and banking systems, the economic relation between the United States and foreign countries; government spending and taxation policies; the United States’ health system and policy options. In their senior year, students take a capstone course that utilizes and applies the theory, analytical skills and data analysis techniques learned in the program.

Economists held about 14,600 jobs in 2008. Government employed 53 percent of economists, in a wide range of agencies, with 31 percent in Federal Government and 22 percent in State and local government. The remaining jobs were spread throughout private industry, particularly in scientific research and development services and management, scientific, and technical consulting services. A number of economists combined a full-time job in government, academia, or business with part-time or consulting work in another setting.