Explore Careers in Economics

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!

EXPLORE CAREER PATHS OF UW ECON ALUMNI

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