Economics
Why Economics at Valpo?
Grounded in research, we radiate insights that help shape the world. As an economics major, you’ll learn about more than money. Studying economics illuminates a deep understanding of how people make decisions and what drives human behavior. At Valpo, you’ll explore how economic concepts apply within topics across disciplines, such as the environment, social justice, healthcare, and the arts.
Our students learn to shine a light on the moral and ethical dimensions of economic systems and policies. With close mentorship from faculty, students gain hands-on experience in data analysis, generative AI, econometric modeling, and forecasting. Paired with the strong foundation of Valpo’s liberal arts education, a major in economics prepares you with highly valued skills to help you pursue a career that makes a difference.
Economics Highlights
100%
of Valparaiso University economics graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within nine months of graduation.
Mentorship
Students participate in mentored research and work with a small group of diversely trained professors who have wide-ranging expertise.
Graduate Program
Valpo economics students have a unique opportunity for early entry into our master’s of science in international economics and finance program.
Economics Major Requirements
The Valparaiso University Experience – also known simply as VUE – is our University-wide general education core. Starting with year one, students of all majors take courses that encourage the growth of critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills for a well-rounded liberal arts background, helping you understand the world and your place in it.
For Valpo’s bachelor of arts in economics, students complete 27 credit hours of economics courses in addition to the general education requirements for their bachelor’s degree. The University-wide general education core of arts and sciences strengthens skills in communication, critical thinking, and cultural awareness.
Students majoring in Valpo’s economics program complete required coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, math, and statistics. Students also take at least 9 credits of economics electives.
| Major Requirements: Minimum 27 Credits | ||
|---|---|---|
| ECON 221 | Principles of Microeconomics | 3 Cr. |
| ECON 222 | Principles of Macroeconomics | 3 Cr. |
| ECON 321 | Intermediate Microeconomic Theory | 3 Cr. |
| ECON 322 | Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory | 3 Cr. |
| ECON 325 | Econometrics | 3 Cr. |
| ECON 499 | Capstone in Economics | 3 Cr. |
| Nine Credits of Electives in Economics: 9 Credits | ||
| Additional Requirements: | ||
| One Course from the Following Options: | ||
| MATH 126 | Calculus and Functions Part II | 4 Cr. |
| MATH 131 | Calculus I | 4 Cr. |
| One Course from the Following Options: | ||
| STAT 140 | General Statistics | 3 Cr. |
| STAT 240 | Statistical Analysis | 3 Cr. |
| PSY 201 | Statistical Methods | 3 Cr. |
| BUS 205 | Business Statistics | 3 Cr. |
Note: Credit for ECON 221 and 222 may be earned through the College-Level Examination Program subject examination in introductory economics. ECON 136 and ECON 486 will not count toward fulfilling the minimum major or minor requirements.
Economics Career Outcomes
With the increasing complexity of the global economy, the job outlook for economists is expected to grow through 2033. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual pay for economists was $115,730 in 2023.
Valpo economics graduates go on to shine in both the public and private sectors, with many continuing on to law school, master of business administration (MBA) programs, and doctorate programs in economics and related disciplines. Our alumni have worked in the federal government, including the Federal Reserve Board, and at banks, insurance companies, and corporations across the world.
Careers in Economics:
- Banking economist
- Business economist
- Consultant
- Educator
- Financial analyst
- Government economist
- Investment analyst
- Professor
- Researcher
- Trade association economist
