Economics offers mathematics-oriented students the basic tools to develop quantitative reasoning skills. Students can gain skills and proficiencies for careers in economics in an online bachelor's in economics program.
By gaining research and professional experience through an economics degree online program, students learn how to appraise and evaluate economic outcomes, institutions, and processes.
Economists earn a median salary of $105,020 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS projects employment for these professionals to increase 14% from 2019-2029, much faster than other occupations.
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FAQ on Online Economic Degrees
What is the highest paying job in economics?
Quantitative analysts enjoy the highest earning potential of all economics majors. They use mathematical and statistical methods and other finance-related studies to evaluate risk. They often apply their research within public or private organizations to determine profitable opportunities.
What kinds of jobs can you get with an economics degree?
Economics degree jobs include market research analysts, economic consultants, or financial analysts, to name a few.
Are economists in demand?
Yes. The BLS projects 14% job growth between 2019-2029, much faster than other occupations.
What is the difference between economics and business?
Business administration addresses individual business-related processes. On the other hand, economics evaluates the big picture, including economic processes in an entire society.
Why Get a Degree in Economics?
An economics major provides comprehensive preparation for a career or for graduate study in public policy analysis. Full-time students often finish an online bachelor's degree in economics in four years — with 120 credits needed for an online degree. Graduates enjoy a lucrative career path and a great entry point for graduate school. Economists earn a median salary of $105,020 per year according to the BLS.
An online college education offers flexibility and gives students access to specialized degree courses not accessible through in-person classes. Online classes allow students to take classes anytime, anywhere.
How Much Does an Economics Degree Cost?
Per-credit costs for an online economics degree typically range from $290-$600.
Colleges and universities do not charge students additional fees for an online degree, such as activity fees or technology fees. Some schools often waive other fees or add fees related to online learning. In general, students pay less for online courses.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
How Much Do Economics Majors Make?
Economists earn a median salary of $105,020 per year according to the BLS. However, they often earn more depending on a number of factors, including level of education and certifications attained.
A bachelor's degree in economics often leads to master's and Ph.D. programs in economics. A master's in economics helps students succeed in financial services or as a consultant. Ph.D. programs help students pursue academia or positions in government, research, and policy.
Some students interested in economics pursue an MBA. As a business-oriented program, the MBA develops management and leadership roles and often leads to high salaries down the road.
Economics students can also get an income boost through additional licensing or certification for specific careers as financial advisors, actuaries, or securities traders.
Courses in Economics
Students develop research and analytical skills throughout all curriculum courses. Students often specialize in international economics, quantitative analysis, or applied microeconomics specializations.
The courses below classes represent a sample curriculum. Actual courses vary from institution to institution.
Principles of Microeconomics
Microeconomics, a keystone course of economics, tackles the forces of supply and demand. This course focuses on how and why markets work, why they sometimes fail to work, and the policy implications involved. Students apply microeconomic concepts to topics of popular or policy interest. The course generally covers minimum wage legislation, international trade policy, tax policy, and the role of a market economy government.Principles of Macroeconomics
Another cornerstone course, principles of macroeconomics introduces students to the study of the aggregate national economy. Students learn the basic theories of macroeconomics. They apply these factors to the causes of inflation, unemployment, recessions, and depressions in the United States. The course focuses on how government fiscal and monetary policy affects the economy.Labor Economics
The labor economics course dives deeper into the characteristics and structure of the U.S. labor force. The course relates directly to the field through its examination of the labor markets and microeconomic and macroeconomic factors. Students compare and contrast U.S. industrial relations and public policies with other western industrialized societies.
Certifications and Licensure for Economics
Licenses and certifications elevate an individual's earning potential and map a specific career path.
The certification in applied economics and data analytics program from the National Association for Business Economics (NABE) offers a baseline for professionalism in the field. Professionals must hold NABE membership and boast two years of work experience in applied business economics or a related field. Candidates need to complete NABE's communication and presentation skills for business economists and writing skills for business economists certificate courses. They must also adhere to the NABE professional conduct guidelines.
NDC's economic development finance professional certification allows professionals to translate development opportunities into results for their communities. Professionals need two years of education or training after high school and more than two years of work experience. Professionals take oral and written exams.
The Global Academy of Finance and Management requires an accredited degree in economics or a related area. Certification seekers also need three years of related work experience and continuing education. They must also agree to adhere to specific ethics requirements.
Scholarships for Economics
When thinking about pursuing an online bachelor's in economics program, consider a variety of scholarships. Also research your prospective institution for other sources of potential funding.
Economics Scholarships
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
Helen D. Snow Scholarship Memorial Fund |
$1,000 |
The Helen D. Snow Scholarship Memorial Fund welcomes applications from members of Phi Chi Theta in good standing. Members attend an approved U.S. institution and major in business and/or economics. Students need at least one completed semester of college in the United States. Applicants submit an application and one copy of an official transcript directly from the registrar's office. Students also submit a copy of their 2021 spring semester course schedule, essay, resume, letters of recommendation, and a professional or business photo. |
Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship |
$2,000 |
The Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship welcomes applications from women of any age pursuing a business program at an accredited institution. Eligible applicants plan to major in a specialization such as economics at an accredited institution. Applicants should demonstrate outstanding potential in the field and live in a Zonta district or region. |
Mid-Atlantic Security Traders Association Foundation Scholarship |
$2,000 for high school seniors from Maryland and Virginia who participate in the Stock Market Game. $5,000 college or university scholarships to candidates selected from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. |
The Mid-Atlantic Security Traders Association Foundation Scholarship welcomes applications from high school seniors who have participated in the Stock Market Game, as well as current sophomore or junior undergraduates. Students in college must major in business, finance, or economics at a four-year private college or university. Eligible applicants hold U.S. citizenship status. Requirements include a completed application form, transcript, and 500-word essay. |
Online Bachelor's In Economics Programs
#1 Online Economics Degrees
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Miami, Florida International University offers online and on-campus undergraduate programs. Students in the school's bachelor's programs receive training in both the liberal arts and in their field. The institution's student population includes 39,863 online learners.
Undergraduate students can pursue an online bachelor of arts in economics. In the online economics program, participants complete coursework in a flexible learning environment. Certificates and programs use video lectures, assignments, and class discussions. Distance learners can also transfer credits or an associate degree to accelerate degree completion. The online format offers an affordable route to a bachelor's degree.
Florida International University Numbers:
Rate of Graduation: 63%
Learners Awarded Financial Aid: 90%
Students Receiving Loans: 29%
Average Cost With Aid: $9,888
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Economics Degrees
The University of Hawai'i at Mānoa
- Honolulu, HI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Hawai'i at Mānoa offers an online bachelor of arts in economics for busy learners who want to earn their economics degree while maintaining employment. The public institution delivers 232 programs, including seven online programs for distance students. Among the school's online offerings are two online bachelor's programs.
The institution delivers coursework for the economics program in a virtual classroom environment. The economics curriculum comprises core coursework and advanced classes to prepare students for the workforce. Degree-seekers gain transferable critical thinking and communication skills, which apply to careers in a variety of fields. Undergraduates can participate in internships to bolster their resume and impress prospective employers.
Distance learners can access support services such as academic advising and career-planning resources. Students with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. The school's financial aid counselors support students as they search for funding options.
Percent Online Enrollment
20%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 Online Economics Degrees
Utah State University
- Logan, UT
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Utah State University is a public institution delivering academic programs from its campus in Logan. Students interested in many fields can pursue relevant degrees through the school's 27 online programs. After completing an online bachelor of science or arts in economics from the institution, graduates often enter rewarding economics careers.
Core and general education classes help degree-seekers in the economics programs develop transferable skills and prepare for advanced coursework. The curricula feature upper-division requirements, which help learners develop transferable soft skills. Most undergraduate degree-seekers can graduate from the bachelor's programs in four years of full-time study.
The school delivers student support services to on-campus and online learners, including academic advising and career counseling. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can submit the FAFSA to receive federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant.
Utah State University Fast Facts:
Applicants Admitted: 91%
Total Programs: 259
Total Bachelor's Programs: 106
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#4 Online Economics Degrees
Western Illinois University
- Macomb, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, Western Illinois University educates students from its Macomb campus. Degree-seekers can enroll in the school's 26 virtual programs to earn their degree without relocating. Distance learners can pursue the institution's online bachelor of arts or business in economics to qualify for positions in economics after graduation.
The economics curricula feature specialized classes in the field and foundational core coursework. Upper-division requirements help participants develop and strengthen important skills, such as critical thinking and communication. Most undergraduate degree-seekers can graduate from the bachelor's program in four years of full-time study.
The school delivers in-person and virtual student support services, such as tutoring and career counseling. At the accredited institution, enrollees who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid, such as the Pell Grant.
Western Illinois University at a Glance:
Undergraduate Admission Rate: 57%
Total Programs: 126
Total Bachelor's Programs: 72
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Applies Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Online Economics Degrees
Washington State University
- Pullman, WA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
With online and on-campus programs across fields, Washington State University is a public institution. Along with on-campus programs in Pullman, Washington, the school delivers 54 online programs. The flexible bachelor of science in economic sciences is ideal for students with personal or professional responsibilities.
The bachelor's program requires general education courses and major classes. Specialized electives and hands-on experiential learning opportunities prepare degree-seekers for positions in economics. Majors meet with academic advisors and faculty mentors to discuss their interests and career goals.
The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. For details about application deadlines and requirements, prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor.
Washington State University at a Glance:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 151
Online Bachelor's Programs: 20
Number of Online Students: 6,592
Percent of Applicants Accepted: 76%
Graduation Rate: 60%
Average Cost Per Credit: $1,024
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
21%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
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