Explore Economics at Montana State University

The need for people who can think, learn and solve problems is timeless.
The study of economics hones these highly valued abilities. 

Individuals, businesses and governments face daily decisions about how to allocate scarce resources. The choices are extensive and range from which career path to follow to which candidates would make the best hires to what goods should be produced, and what policies will lead to the best outcomes.

Economics is the study of this critical decision-making behavior. It is a mode of thinking and reasoning with widespread professional and personal application.

Some careers require very specific skills that can quickly become outdated, such as knowledge of particular computer programs or specialized equipment. The study of economics builds and hones the timeless skills that employers value most highly -- the ability to think critically and carefully, the ability to learn new skills, and the ability to solve problems. It's what is known as "the economic way of thinking."

Our Economics major is offered through the College of Letters and Science. We offer training in:

• Behavioral economics
• Economic development
• Environmental policy and natural resource economics
• Financial economics
• Health economics
• International economics and trade
• Labor economics
• Money and banking
• Public policy analysis
• Statistics and econometrics
  

  What can you do with a degree in economics?

Our graduates have parlayed their economics bachelor's degrees into a wide range of career fields. Placements within the past seven years include:

• Analyst, Goldman Sachs
• Mathematics Instructor, Browning High School 
• Program Manager, MSU Diversity and Inclusion Commons
• Economist, U.S. Department of Energy
• E-Filing Business Analyst, State of Montana 

Some have leveraged their bachelor's degree to advanced education opportunities through master's programs, law schools and professional training programs. These include:

• Harvard Law School
• John F. Kennedy School of Government
• Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs Master's Program
• Yale School of the Environment, Masters of Environmental Economics Program

Still wondering about the economics discipline and what economists do?
Check out this video from the American Economic Association and visit the
AEA student resource page to learn more.