In the Economics Career Development Office, we are commonly asked about what careers our graduates pursue. Majoring in economics is like majoring in critical thinking. You are well-prepared to apply your coursework to a variety of careers and industries. Sometimes the range of choices makes it difficult to decide what you would like to do after graduation. We have found that by understanding what skills you have, what other graduates have done, and what you enjoy doing, you can begin to define your career goals!
Below, we highlight career paths of economics alumni, career guides for the most common industries economics students pursue, skills gained through studying economics, and additional career exploration resources. If you would like to talk to someone about your career interests, make an appointment with us!
CAREER GUIDES FOR INDUSTRIES PURSUED BY ECONOMICS STUDENTS
Here are common industries economics students go into. This is not a complete list of everything you can do by studying economics. Think of it as a starting point. Each area lists helpful information for that industry including, potential courses, student organizations, and sample job titles.
Please note that these are guides only; you are not required to take all the courses that are listed or join any student organizations listed.
SKILLS GAINED THROUGH STUDYING ECONOMICS
Generally, an economics education:
- Trains you to think analytically and critically in solving complex problems
- Provides skills to observe and make inferences from data
- Teaches you effective verbal and written communication skills
More specifically, economics teaches and develops a variety of skills including:
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Research/Analysis
Generating/developing ideas
Organizing materials
Designing projects
Analyzing results
Applying statistical methods
Testing an idea/hypothesis
Financial/Data
Maintaining accurate records
Tabulating data
Manipulating numerical data
Developing budgets
Cost analysis/projections
Preparing financial reports/statements
Problem Solving
Assessing needs
Defining problems
Reviewing/evaluating goals
Relating theory to practice
Applying quantitative analysis
Generating solutions
Evaluating policies
Projecting/forecasting results
Communication
Writing reports articles
Reading/interpreting reports/statements
Summarizing data
Writing grant proposals
Analyzing data
Sizing up an audience
Speaking clearly
Presenting proposals/reports
ADDITIONAL CAREER EXPLORATION RESOURCES
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Career Exploration Center at UW-Madison
Career Exploration Center at UW-Madison provides in-depth advising appointments for undergraduates to help you explore your interests, values, strengths, and personality
SuccessWork’s Career Communities
SuccessWork’s Career Communities highlight online resources to explore career options in Government, Politics, Policy & Law, NonProfit Management, Data & Analytics and MORE
Occupational Outlook Handbook
The Occupational Outlook Handbook highlights occupations by industry or interest area and outlines what the positions do, how to become one, pay ranges, job outlook, and similar occupations.
American Economic Association “Careers in Economics”
American Economic Association “Careers in Economics” section highlights common career paths and salary statistics
The Graduate School’s Individual Development Plan
The Graduate School’s Individual Development Plan helps graduate students assess skills, interests, and strengths and make a plan to meet professional goals
Next Steps: Find Jobs & Internships
Begin exploring internships and jobs in career fields you are curious about!