Why This Matters
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14% GROWTH RATE FOR ECONOMISTS
Jobs for economists are projected to grow at a rate of 14% over the next decade, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Many new jobs are expected to be in firms that specialize in research and consulting services.
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2,900 ADDITIONAL JOBS BY 2029
The BLS reports that there will be almost 3,000 new jobs for economists from 2019 to 2029, which should increase the likelihood of new grads being able to find work in the field.
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EARN MORE THAN $108,000
Economists earn a median annual wage of $108,350, with those working in the finance and insurance industries earning the highest annual wage at $129,060, on average.
Our Research
This list focuses on undergraduate programs related to economics that offer a bachelor’s degree. Several bachelor’s degree programs award a Bachelor of Arts in Economics or a Bachelor of Science in Economics. We reviewed programs that are offered online and in blended formats.
To ensure the quality of the programs, all schools on our list are regionally, nationally, or internationally accredited institutions. Several programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, which assesses colleges in the central United States based on factors like academic mission, ethics, teaching and learning, and resources.
- 52 hours to write this article
- 62 universities and colleges we assessed
- 100 education programs we compared
The Top 50 Online Bachelor’s in Economics Programs
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What You Should Know About This Degree
Most economists need an advanced degree to work in the field. However, many entry-level jobs in economics, especially those in government, only require a bachelor’s degree. Undergraduate programs typically offer either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. A Bachelor of Science focuses heavily on math and statistics, whereas a Bachelor of Arts has a math component, but focuses more on the behavioral aspect of economics.
Whichever path you choose, it’s important to look for an undergraduate program that is accredited by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation or the U.S. Department of Education, which give an institution and its graduates credibility with other institutions and employers.
The job outlook for those who earn this degree is strong. Jobs for economists are projected to grow at a rate of 14% over the next decade. Jobs for similar occupations, such as actuaries, financial analysts, and market researchers, are also projected to grow faster than average.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching online bachelor’s in economics programs:
- Am I eligible for this program? Prospective students seeking a bachelor’s degree in economics must meet certain criteria to be considered for enrollment. Bachelor’s degrees typically require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalency. Some colleges set minimum GPA requirements and ask candidates to submit standardized test scores. Before applying, check the program’s admissions requirements to confirm that you meet their qualifications.
- How long does it take to complete this online degree? The amount of time it takes to complete a bachelor’s program in economics depends on various factors. However, full-time students usually earn a bachelor’s degree in four years.
As you research programs, note what application materials you must submit for each program. You should also keep track of application deadlines. You can usually find information about each program’s application process by reviewing their website or contacting their admissions department.
It is also important to consider how you will finance your graduate education. Tuition and fees vary by program. Some funding opportunities may include scholarships, loans, and grants. If you work, you should also ask your employer about educational assistance programs.
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