Academic Programs / Majors

Economics

Program Details

• Major: Economics
• Degree Program: Economics
• Program Web Site
• Eberly College of Arts and Sciences
• Degree Designation: Bachelor's (B.A.)

Program Description

In the broadest sense, economics is the science of decision-making. In economics, students learn how to identify the costs, benefits, and consequences of a decision. Often identified with the study of market behavior, economists also study issues that affect the market such as criminal behavior, poverty, law, environmental control, population, voting, and political behavior.

Two colleges at West Virginia University offer a major in economics. Students may earn a bachelor of arts (BA) in Economics from the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences and a bachelor of science (BS) degree in Economics from the College of Business and Economics.

The bachelor of arts (BA) program emphasizes a broad liberal arts education, while the bachelor of science program includes training in the various disciplines of business, including accounting, business law, finance, management, marketing, and information systems.

The program leading to the B.A. degree in economics is designed for students who wish to combine fundamental training in economics with a liberal arts education. In addition to the liberal studies and related requirements, students have in excess of 40 credit hours of unrestricted electives.

Specific requirements are:

Economics 201, 202, 225, 301, 302, and 481.
15 hours at the 300 and 400 levels.
A 2.0 grade-point average for all economics courses (computed using the last grade earned in any course)
A grade of C or better in each of Econ 301 and 302.
See the university catalog for residency requirements.

Career Profile

Graduates with degrees in Economics are needed in both government and the private sector. Government economists assess economic conditions in the US and abroad and estimate the economic impact of specific changes in legislation or public policy. Economists in private industry work largely for marketing research firms, management consulting firms, banks, investment firms, and insurance companies.

English Language Proficiency

All applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English language proficiency. WVU accepts either the TOEFL or the IELTS for this purpose. Please see Office of Admissions - English Language Proficiency for more information.

Apply Now

Prospective students should apply online at:
apply.wvu.edu.

Accreditation

WVU is fully accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.