Best Online Economics Degree Programs

Earning an online bachelor’s in economics prepares graduates for careers in many fields, including government, business, and finance. The skills that learners acquire during these programs apply to various roles, particularly careers involving market analysis and the consumption of goods and services.

The employment outlook appears promising for economics graduates. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects strong growth for business and financial and management occupations between 2019 and 2029. Most of these careers provide high median annual salaries. To capitalize on these opportunities, prospective students should choose the appropriate educational pathway for their career goals.

This page can help learners better understand their degree options and potential outcomes before making a decision. For additional information, consult our bachelor’s in economics program guide.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Economics is an interdisciplinary field focusing on the tradeoff between supply and demand. Those who study economics seek to understand trends — especially around production and consumption — on a small (microeconomics) or large (macroeconomics) scale. Economics also attempts to answer questions related to the spending habits of individuals and communities.

To succeed in a bachelor’s in economics program, students need a combination of analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills. These programs usually require 120 credits, and full-time students often graduate in approximately four years.

Most bachelor’s in economics programs lead to a BA degree, but students may encounter BS degrees, as well. Typically, BA degrees offer broader and more theoretical training and allow for more flexibility, whereas BS degrees focus on quantitative components and mathematics.

Consequently, the difference in these degree types can lead to different postgraduate paths. BA degrees often prepare graduates for graduate study and entry-level positions in various fields, while BS degrees better equip graduates for applied economics positions. Employers and graduate schools accept both options.

Degree-seekers can also shape their eventual career path by focusing on certain fields within the program. Concentrations in areas like data science, economic development, business, and financial economics build specialized experience and skills that can expand students’ employment opportunities. Internships are another way to prepare for specific careers.

Students may encounter a variety of courses depending on the school, degree type, and curriculum options. To illustrate this variety, the following list examines several popular courses for a bachelor’s in economics program.

Through training that applies to many industries and professions, bachelor’s in economics programs provide significant employment opportunities. The BLS projects 14% job growth for economists between 2019 and 2029. This projected growth rate is much faster than the national average, but the smaller size of the field means stiff competition for positions.

The business and financial and management fields, however, also accommodate economics graduates. The BLS projects solid growth in both areas between 2019 and 2029.

Discover where a bachelor’s in economics can take you. Learn more about economics careers here.

Are all bachelor’s in economics programs the same? The simple answer is no. When choosing a program, it is important to note that students can earn a bachelor of arts degree in economics or a bachelor of science degree in economics. Both prepare graduates for similar careers, but there are some differences.

A bachelor of arts degree in economics features a more qualitative focus and highlights the social implications that surround supply and demand and the economy. Alternatively, focusing more on quantitative economics, a bachelor of science in economics analyzes cause and effect in the economy by examining the math and statistics around it.

Prospective students also have the option to join a traditional in-person program or pursue their bachelor’s in economics degree online. Some students prefer in-person instruction, while others may enjoy the added flexibility of an online program.

When applying to a bachelor’s in economics program, look at each school’s application requirements. Although requirements may differ slightly, most programs have a minimum GPA requirement and many ask applicants to submit their ACT or SAT scores.

Along with an application, transcripts, and test scores, colleges may also require a personal essay and/or letters of recommendations. Although there aren’t any special requirements for a bachelor’s in economics program, it is important for applicants to highlight experiences that are relevant to the program. For instance, applicants may include a letter of recommendation from a mathematics teacher.

Earning a bachelor’s degree in economics in a traditional program takes full-time students four years, with programs requiring at least 120 credits. Credits include general electives and core requirements, as well as program-specific courses. Students’ coursework may look different depending on whether they’re pursuing a BA or a BS.

Prospective students interested in increased flexibility may find an online bachelor’s in economics program to be a better fit. Some online programs offer accelerated tracks that allow students to graduate in less than four years.

The average tuition and fees for a bachelor’s degree cost $9,000-$35,000 a year, depending on a student’s residency status (in state vs. out of state) and whether they are pursuing a degree at a private or public institution.

Prospective students can cut costs by going to an in-state school or pursuing an online degree in economics from a school that offers in-state tuition prices for out-of-state distance learners. Since the average annual cost of tuition and fees is higher at private colleges, students looking to save money should investigate public college options.