What do Bill Belichick, Warren Buffett, and Mick Jagger have in common? They were all economics majors!
While most economics majors don’t become football coaches and rock stars, many of them do follow in the path of Warren Buffett and spend their lives analyzing economic trends.
If you have a mind for math and business and an interest in the economy, a degree in economics may be perfect for you. With this degree, you’ll find jobs within a number of industries, from government and technology to finance and more. An economics degree can also be a great option if you plan on pursuing an MBA or a law degree. From macro and microeconomics to currency systems, you’ll take plenty of interesting classes as you study economics.
What is an Economics Degree?
When you major in economics as an undergraduate, you’ll explore questions of wealth, resource allocation, finance, and much more. As noted above, you can use the knowledge you gain in these areas to enter any number of career fields, from business management to law, public affairs to finance.
While each economics program is a little different, there are some hallmark features that are common to most undergraduate programs in economics.
General Degree Requirements
By and large, most online bachelor’s degree programs in economics are 120 semester credit hours. Some colleges and universities work on the quarter system, and in those instances, programs are usually 180 credit hours to complete.
Of those hours, about half are in the major area of study while the other half are general education requirements. These general courses help broaden your horizons and expose you to a number of important areas of study, including math, science, social sciences, art, and so forth.
Economics Degree Requirements
Once you enter your junior year of college, you’ll begin to focus on taking economics courses. These classes will advance your knowledge of economics concepts and foster the growth of skills that you’ll need to continue your education in graduate school or pursue employment after you finish your undergraduate degree.
Typically, economics majors will take courses in the following areas:
- Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics
- Economic Analysis
- Econometrics
- International Trade
- Managerial Economics
But aside from these and other core courses, you will have the opportunity to examine other economics topics of your choosing in elective coursework. While core courses are relatively similar from one school to the next, the elective courses you can take will usually vary widely. Some examples of possible elective courses are:
- Game Theory
- Experimental Economics
- Computational Methods in Economics
- Cryptocurrencies
- Urban Economics
- Behavioral Economics
So, as you can see, the options are virtually limitless in terms of the courses you can take in your online undergraduate program in economics.
Other requirements might be on the table depending on the specific program you choose. As you’ll see in the rankings below, some programs require capstone projects, internships, a minor, or even a double major. Obviously, these types of additions will change what you need to do in order to get your degree.
Yet, all of the programs on this list can be completed within four years of full-time study. You’ll find that some programs can be completed much faster, provided you meet certain qualifications.
How much can you earn with an Economics Degree?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for an economist is $108,350. However, you shouldn’t expect to make six figures with just a bachelor’s degree, particularly right out of college. You’ll have to either obtain an advanced degree or get a lot of work experience under your belt before you can earn money like that.
Of course, your salary will ultimately be determined based on your career path and your level of experience and education within the field. For example, economists that work for state government agencies make far less than the median – just $73,510. But economists that enter the finance or insurance industries tend to make much more – about $130,000 per year.
What are the Best Economics Degrees?
To rank online economics degrees, we use seven data points. Two of those data points are program-specific: the number of degree options available and the median annual wages two years after graduation. There are five data points that rank school-wide information as well: the school’s admissions rate, graduation rate, the median debt upon graduation, student satisfaction, and the type of accreditation (regional or national).
The data for each of these criteria are clearly listed for each school. This allows you to quickly compare the features of each school to develop your own rankings of which ones best fit your needs. A detailed explanation of the methodology we use to develop these rankings is available here.
1. San Diego State University
Online Bachelor of Arts in Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 39-42 credits
- Time to complete: 2 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $239.25 per credit (in-state); $396 (out-of-state)
- This is a degree completion program specifically designed for students that have started, but not finished, their undergraduate degree.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 1
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $41,689
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 37%
Graduation Rate: 78%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $17,827
Student Satisfaction: 4.0 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 78.34
This best online economics degree from San Diego State University has the distinction of being the only one in our rankings that is a degree completion program.
As a completion program, you can finish an undergraduate degree that you’ve already started in about two years. Those two years are occupied with major-area courses in economics. This includes courses in data analysis, microeconomics, and macroeconomics, to name a few.
Additionally, you’ll develop critical thinking, quantitative analysis, and communication skills that are so important for working in business, management, economics, and other related fields.
It is important to note that graduates from San Diego State University give the school high marks – it has one of the highest student satisfaction scores among the schools on this list. Another bright spot for this program is that graduates tend to have comparatively low debt upon graduation. With an average of $17,827 of debt, graduates from San Diego State enjoy one of the lowest debt rates among schools in this ranking.
2. Penn State World Campus
Online Bachelor of Science in Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $590-632 per credit
- The focus of this online economics degree is on helping you develop analytical skills needed for economic research, mathematics, and computer programming. As such, coursework revolves around quantitative economics, numerical concepts, and building a knowledge base for pursuing further education.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 2
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $51,907
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 73%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $27,031
Student Satisfaction: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 75
This top online economics degree from Penn State University comes in two forms: a bachelor of science or a bachelor of arts. This is one of a few programs in our rankings that offer the degree in a B.S. and a B.A. format.
The online bachelor of science in economics program focuses on building quantitative knowledge that you can use to interpret and explain individual and group economic behavior. You’ll learn how to create economic models while also gaining advanced skills in mathematics and statistics.
The online bachelor of arts in economics option is slightly different. This program focuses more on the qualitative side of economics. So, rather than focusing on mathematics and statistics, your studies will include:
- international relations
- social behavior
- cultural diversity
- world languages
With coursework in these areas, you’ll be prepared for work in international economics.
Regardless of which option you choose, these programs will lay a strong foundation of understanding in economics that you can use to continue your education in graduate school if you wish. If you enter the workforce, you can expect reasonably high earnings – graduates of this program make, on average, over $51,000 per year, which is one of the highest figures on this list.
3. Colorado State University
Online Bachelor of Arts in Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $476 per credit
- This program includes a bulk of coursework in economics, though math, statistics, writing, and communication are also part of the curriculum.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 1
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $44,937
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 84%
Graduation Rate: 69%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $23,997
Student Satisfaction: 4.2 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 75
This cost-effective online bachelor of arts degree in economics from Colorado State University earns high marks for several categories, including median debt upon graduation, student satisfaction, and its regional accreditation.
Unlike many of the other programs on this list, the CSU online economics degree requires that you also complete a minor. Having a minor expands your knowledge and skills to areas related to economics and can help you build a stronger foundation for future studies. Likewise, having a minor might help you find better employment upon graduating with your undergraduate degree.
There are many different approved minors for this program, including:
- Agricultural Business
- Anthropology
- Business Administration
- Gerontology
- Global and Environmental Sustainability
- Media Studies
- Political Science
- Sociology
Regardless of the minor you choose, you can expect to acquire skills that enable you to be a logical and critical thinker that can adapt quickly to changing circumstances. Likewise, graduates of this top online economics program demonstrate good quantitative skills, have the ability to think on the margin, and are capable of assessing the costs and benefits of various economic activities.
4. Washington State University
Online Bachelor of Science in Economic Sciences
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $451.25 per credit (in-state); $503.00 (out-of-state)
- This degree requires students to complete 12 hours of non-economics courses in communications, English, business, math, statistics, or business math.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 1
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $48,041
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 67%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $21,201
Student Satisfaction: 4 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 75
One of the unique features of this online economics degree is that it is offered by the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. With an emphasis on social and natural sciences, students in this program get a unique perspective on how economics influences – and is influenced by – both the natural world as well as social constructs.
Over the course of this online degree program, you’ll acquire skills related to:
- data analysis
- problem-solving
- microeconomics
- macroeconomics
- econometrics
This program also includes practicum and internship opportunities, which is relatively rare in an undergraduate program. The benefit of having practicum and internship opportunities is that you can apply your classroom learning to real-world settings under the supervision of an experienced economist.
Another benefit of this top online economics program is that there are four specialty areas that you can choose to pursue. These include:
- Agribusiness
- Management
- Marketing and Analytics
- Supply Chain Management
Each specialization includes three, three-credit courses.
5. Oregon State University
Online Bachelor of Science in Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 180 quarter credits (which is equivalent to 120 semester credits)
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $331 per credit
- This program offers three areas in which you can specialize: general economics; law, economics, and policy; and managerial economics. Additionally, you can pursue either a bachelor of science degree or a bachelor of arts degree to tailor your studies to your specific goals.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 2
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $41,937
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 82%
Graduation Rate: 64%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $23,572.5
Student Satisfaction: 3.9 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 73.34
With four start times throughout the year, this top online economics degree from Oregon State University offers you a lot of flexibility. In fact, no other school in our rankings has as many starting options for their online degree.
By investing in education in economics, you can open the doors to many future pathways. An economics degree from Oregon State University might lead to a career as an economics consultant, in public policy, or even in the retail or corporate sectors. Of course, an undergraduate degree in this field will also prepare you well for graduate studies in economics and related fields.
The online program at Oregon State can be completed as a bachelor of science or a bachelor of arts degree. Both options offer you the ability to specialize in one of three areas of focus:
- General economics
- Law, economics, and policy
- Managerial economics
The general economics track revolves around building a comprehensive set of skills in economics that include problem-solving, communication, and quantitative analysis. The law, economics, and policy track is for students that have an interest in entering the public policy or public service spaces, or who want to attend law school. The managerial economics option is geared towards building knowledge in business and economics and is designed for students that wish to enter the workforce after graduation or who want to study business in graduate school.
6. The University of Utah
Online Bachelor of Science in Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 122 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $260 per credit
- Students can opt for a bachelor of arts in economics if they complete the required world languages courses.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 2
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $43,351
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 79%
Graduation Rate: 68%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $18,924
Student Satisfaction: 3.9 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 73.34
This high-value online economics degree is unique in that it is offered by the University of Utah’s College of Social and Behavioral Sciences instead of the College of Business. By including the social and behavioral sciences component, this program offers students the ability to learn economic, mathematical, and statistical methods in addition to topics of social and behavioral importance.
For example, you can select a focus on economic development, trade, law, or inequality and sustainability, to name a few. Likewise, students must take courses in two of the following elective areas:
- econometrics
- economic history
- history of economic thought
As noted above, students can opt to get a bachelor of science or a bachelor of arts degree in economics. The two options are the same, except for the world languages requirement for the bachelor of arts program. In either case, these undergraduate degrees require you to complete 36 credits in economics and 12 credits in allied coursework for a total of 48 credits (of 122 total credits).
7. Florida International University
Online Bachelor of Arts in Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $228.81 per credit (in-state); $345.87 per credit (out-of-state)
- Students can enter the program in the spring, summer, or fall. Economics majors are often recruited by companies on campus the semester they graduate.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 1
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $41,007
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 64%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $17,900
Student Satisfaction: 3.9 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 73.34
This online bachelor of arts program in economics from Florida International University offers students a chance to learn about the economic problems facing the world and the institutions that are in charge of addressing those problems.
As a bachelor of arts program, this degree is designed for students who wish to explore the component of the social sciences of economics – the influence of economics on groups and cultures, the effects of poverty, and so forth. With this type of degree, you can pursue a career in business, with international agencies, corporations, or even governments.
Additionally, a bachelor of arts degree in economics is a good start to continuing your studies in graduate school. Many graduates with this type of degree go on to study:
- public administration
- international relations
- business
- law
- urban studies
To offer students greater flexibility, you can enter this program at three points during the academic year – spring, summer or fall. The program is completely online and can be completed in four years if you are a full-time student. That timeline can be shortened if you take additional classes, such as attending summer school.
Unlike most programs on this list, this one differentiates tuition costs based on residency. Just be aware that if you don’t live in Florida, the tuition will be higher.
8. Utah State
Online Bachelor of Science in Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $332.83 per credit (in-state); $369.00 (out-of-state)
- This degree revolves around the study of economic theory and prepares students for employment in fields that involve detailed policy analysis.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 2
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $52,107
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 91%
Graduation Rate: 55%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $16,125
Student Satisfaction: 4.1 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 71.67
Utah State’s online bachelor’s degree in economics is offered in two forms: a bachelor of science or a bachelor of arts. The degree tracks are the same, though, if you want a B.A., you must have proficiency in at least one world language. A dual-major option is also available in economics and accounting.
In addition to the B.A. and B.S. degree options, this online degree in economics gives students multiple specialization tracks, including:
- Economic theory
- Managerial economics
- Pre-law economics
- International economics and trade
- Quantitative economic history
Obviously, these tracks are widely diverse and help you prepare for a range of careers after graduation. Some of these specializations, like pre-law economics, focus on helping you develop your knowledge and skills in preparation for continuing your education. With these different tracks available, Utah State’s economics program is one of the most diverse on this list.
9. Eastern Oregon University
Online Bachelor of Science in Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 180 quarter credits (which is equivalent to 120 semester credits)
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $265 per credit
- In addition to required coursework, you can also choose a specialization area for research. This includes options like statistical analysis, social science research, or correlation and regression analysis.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 2
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $62,027.50
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 94%
Graduation Rate: 42%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $22,000
Student Satisfaction: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 71.67
The core courses in this online economics degree from Eastern Oregon University cover a breadth of economics topics. This includes microeconomics, macroeconomics, and the history of economics. You’ll also study economics theories and the principles of economics.
Additionally, this program requires you to take various math and research courses, including statistics, research methods, and calculus.
Eastern Oregon’s program also requires that students complete an econometrics capstone project. This project is supervised by a faculty member so you get real-world feedback from an experienced economist on the project.
There are two degree options available – a bachelor of science and a bachelor of arts. If you wish to get a B.A., you will need to fulfill the university’s world languages requirement.
Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared for a wide range of careers, including those in:
- business
- management
- data analysis
- public policy
10. West Texas A&M University
Online Bachelor of Business Administration in Law and Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $234.71 per credit (in-state); $671.73 (out-of-state)
- There are two online economics degrees available from West Texas A&M. This one, and a bachelor of science in digital collaboration in economics.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 2
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $47,010.50
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 51%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $20,800
Student Satisfaction: 3.6 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 70
One of the unique features of this top online economics degree from West Texas A&M is that it is a specialization in law and economics. It is the only degree on this list in that specific field. Additionally, it is one of a few programs in our rankings that results in a bachelor of business administration degree.
While this degree is designed to prepare you to continue your education in law school, it is also good preparation to enter the workforce after completing your undergraduate studies.
By earning a degree in economics, you will explore many different fields of study, from statistics to psychology, sociology to history, business to finance, and more.
Graduates of this online economics program have a strong understanding of human behavior as it relates to economics. With the broad coursework outlined above, you will develop the skills needed to:
- analyze complex issues
- conduct economic research
- evaluate economic trends
11. University of Hawaii- Mānoa
Online Bachelor of Arts in Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $471 per credit (in-state); $1,389 per credit (out-of-state)
- Students in this program have the opportunity to study a vast array of economics subjects, including trade policy and globalization, the economy of Hawaii, and comparative economic history, just to name a few.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 1
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $39,153
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 84%
Graduation Rate: 62%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $18,561.50
Student Satisfaction: 3.3 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 68.34
The Department of Economics at the University of Hawaii at Manoa offers a wide range of learning opportunities inside and outside of the curriculum for this top online bachelor of arts degree in economics.
For example, students can take courses including econometrics, the economy of China, and international trade and welfare. Additionally, the department offers courses on:
- network economics
- microeconomics
- macroeconomics
There are various workshops and seminars that students can attend. The Department of Economics hosts these events and includes a variety of topics, like applied microeconomics, energy and environmental research, and trade and public health.
This program is offered fully online. However, out-of-state students pay a premium to take courses at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Full-time students (e.g., students taking at least 12 credits) that live outside of Hawaii pay $1,389 in tuition per credit. That makes this program the most expensive one on this list.
12. Medgar Evers College- The City University of New York
Online Bachelor of Science in Financial Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $288.75 per credit (in-state); $620 (out-of-state)
- This program is focused on financial economics, which is a good degree option for people that want to work in finance, money markets, economic development, or international markets.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 1
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,260
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 23%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $10,625
Student Satisfaction: 3.0 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 68.34
Medgar Evers College is part of the City University of New York system. Its online bachelor of science degree in financial economics is the only such degree offered in our rankings.
With the emphasis on financial economics, this online program helps pave the way for you to work in:
- domestic or international markets
- economic development
- finance
And with the lowest median debt upon graduation of any of the schools on this list, Medgar Evers College is a good choice for budget-conscious students.
Another benefit of pursuing this program at Medgar Evers College is the high earnings after graduation. At just over $58,000, graduates from this school enjoy one of the highest earnings in our rankings.
It should be noted, however, that the student satisfaction score is among the lowest on this list. Likewise, Medgar Evers College has the lowest graduation rate of any school on this list.
13. Arizona State University
Online Bachelor of Science in Economics-Business
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $561-$661 per credit
- This degree is from the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University. The focus on business topics gives graduates of this program unique insight into the application of economic theory in a business setting.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 2
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $50,766.50
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 73%
Graduation Rate: 54%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $24,000
Student Satisfaction: 3.9 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 66.67
The online economics degree from Arizona State University is unique in that it is an economics-business degree. Unlike a more traditional liberal arts degree in economics, this one brings a comprehensive education in economics together with foundational courses in business. Together, this gives graduates of this program a strong foundation in:
- Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics
- Statistical analyses
- Accounting
- Finance
- Marketing
Additionally, this high-value online economics program explores data analytics, supply chain management, and organizational leadership.
Graduates of this program have gone on to careers in a wealth of different areas. This includes:
- logistics
- market research
- statistics
Graduates have also started careers in the military, working for government agencies, and have also pursued higher education in the form of graduate and doctoral degrees.
14. University of Wisconsin Whitewater
Online Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $389 per credit
- Coursework for this online degree in economics includes three primary areas: economic theory, quantitative methods, and applied subfields of economics.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 1
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $54,435
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 63%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $25,831.50
Student Satisfaction: 3.8 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 66.67
At the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, you can get an online bachelor of business administration in economics in four years. During your time in the program, you’ll be prepared to enter the workforce in economics or related professions, like:
- business
- finance
- marketing
Likewise, this 120-credit program sets you up well for success in a graduate program in economics. If you want to go to graduate school, it is highly recommended that you either add a minor in mathematics to your undergraduate major or double major in economics and mathematics to be as well prepared for grad school as possible.
Think of this program as an opportunity to build on-the-job skills. You’ll explore topics that range from distributional outcomes to public policy, economic literacy to quantitative analysis. Having a deep understanding of these concepts is crucial for success in future schooling or careers.
15. Western Illinois University
Online Bachelor of Business in Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $307.94 per credit
- With a focus on business, this degree program is ideally suited for students that wish to work in the business, finance, or business analysis sectors.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 2
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $40,456
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 67%
Graduation Rate: 59%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $26,525
Student Satisfaction: 3.6 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 63.34
Western Illinois University actually offers two online bachelor’s degrees in economics. The first is the bachelor of business in economics discussed above. The second is a more traditional bachelor of arts in economics.
The bachelor of business in economics degree is a good option for students that wish to build a career in business or finance. Conversely, the bachelor of arts option is better-suited for students that wish to go on to law school or have a desire to work in local, state, or federal government agencies.
To offer students more flexibility, Western Illinois University offers a dual-degree program in which you can pursue your bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in a single program. The master of science in quantitative economics is the culminating degree, and it can be obtained along with the undergraduate degree in just five years time. This is the only program on this list that offers this option.
16. Fort Hays State University
Online Bachelor of Business Administration With a Major in International Business and Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $226.88 per credit
- This program offers courses in accounting, finance, business law, management, and international business. It is one of the most diverse programs in terms of coursework on this list.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 1
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $43,573
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 91%
Graduation Rate: 58%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $19,000
Student Satisfaction: 3.8 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 63.33
This cheap online economics degree from Fort Hays State University is unique in that it’s a business administration degree with an emphasis on both economics and international business. Due to the diverse coursework, you’ll graduate the program with solid skills in a wide range of areas, including:
- Economics
- Accounting
- Finance
- Marketing
- Management
With its focus on international business, this online degree program in economics also gives you the opportunity to learn about resource markets, products, and international business practices. You’ll study different customs and cultures, discuss politics, and learn about geography and world languages as well.
Fort Hays State University has a robust transfer program, so if you’ve already started your undergraduate studies elsewhere, you might be able to transfer a significant number of credits to Fort Hays State. But, whether you’re a transfer student or an incoming freshman, the wide variety of courses in this top online economics program will help prepare you for future careers in the U.S. and abroad.
17. University of West Georgia
Online Bachelor of Business Administration With a Major in Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $182 per credit
- Completion of this program results in a Bachelors of Business Administration (BBA). Coursework is divided between three primary topics – accounting, economics, and management. Economics courses comprise the bulk of the major studies.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 4
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $28,598
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 45%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $26,000
Student Satisfaction: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 61.67
This online degree program in economics from the University of West Georgia helps prepare you for a variety of careers, be that in the private sector in business or industry, or in the public sector working for government agencies. Typically, graduates of programs like this go on to work in insurance, banking, and marketing as well. Financial analysis, business administration, and international business are further options with a degree of this nature.
In addition to focusing your studies on economics, you’ll also study business and management, hone your analytical skills, and learn how to effectively communicate in a business setting. This well-rounded education not only serves you well if you enter the workforce after graduation. Instead, it’s good preparation for continuing your studies in graduate school.
In fact, this is one of the only online BBA programs on this list. Programs like this are an excellent way to prepare for an MBA or even law school, so if you want to continue your education in one of those fields, this fully online economics degree could be a good fit.
18. North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
Online Bachelor of Science in Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $120 per credit (in-state); $576 per credit (out-of-state)
- Completion of this program requires you to choose up to ten elective courses from any other department to complement. Doing so supplements your economics studies and will make you a more attractive hiring option.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 1
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $37,208
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 57%
Graduation Rate: 46%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $22,455.50
Student Satisfaction: 3.8 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 61.67
The online economics degree from North Carolina A&T State University is a traditional four-year program. Over the course of your studies, you’ll take a range of classes in economics, with the opportunity to specialize in business economics or economics law.
Whichever specialty you choose, you’ll enjoy coursework that includes:
- Quantitative Analysis
- Data Skills for Economics
- International Economics
- Econometrics
- Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics
Additionally, you’ll take courses on:
- information management systems
- business communications
- business reports
- presentations
You are also afforded the ability to take nine elective credits in economics to further your understanding of niche principles and applications of economics.
Upon graduation, you will have the skills needed to work in a variety of settings, including non-profit agencies, international businesses, or government entities. Some graduates of this program even go on to start their own small business, work in finance and banking, or serve in the armed forces.
19. The University of Maine
Online Bachelor of Arts in Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $388 per credit (in-state residents, Canadian residents, and veterans); $485 per credit (out-of-state)
- In addition to classroom experiences, students also have the opportunity to pursue research with University of Maine faculty members.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 1
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $45,808
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 92%
Graduation Rate: 59%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $26,325
Student Satisfaction: 3.6 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 60
The curriculum of this online economics degree from the University of Maine allows for the development of strong professional skills that will be needed for careers or continuing education after graduating with an undergraduate degree.
The coursework for this program includes microeconomics, macroeconomics, and economic data analysis. Likewise, you’re required to complete a senior capstone project. This type of cumulative project gives you the opportunity to put your classroom learning to the test in a detailed research situation.
Additionally, University of Maine students in the online economics bachelor’s degree program are required to either have a minor or to double major. The minor options available to economics majors include:
- Legal studies
- Labor studies
- Political science
- Maine studies
- Child development and family relations
If you choose to double major, you can do so in economics and political science, business administration in management, or surveying engineering technology. Each of these programs is also offered 100 percent online.
20. The University of New Mexico
Online Bachelor of Arts in Economics
Quick Facts:
- Length: 120 credits
- Time to complete: 4 years (if attending full-time)
- Format: Online
- Tuition: $429.30 per credit
- The University of New Mexico offers an accelerated option that allows you to complete this degree in a shorter time frame.
Online Program Information:
Number of Degree Options: 1
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $36,560
School-Wide Information:
Admission Rate: 96%
Graduation Rate: 50%
Median Debt Upon Graduation: $16,354
Student Satisfaction: 3.2 out of 5 stars
Type of Accreditation: Regional (2 out of 2 points)
OSR Score: 58.34
If you want to rapidly obtain your online economics degree, this program from the University of New Mexico might be a good fit. Their accelerated online economics program allows you to complete the major requirements (33 credits) in an eight-week period. No other program on this list offers that short of a timetable for completing major-required coursework.
To qualify for the accelerated program, you must have already completed most of the general education requirements to graduate from the University of New Mexico. Usually, applicants to this program need to have 60-70 credits already completed, if not more.
The 33 major credits required to get this affordable economics degree are divided between core courses and elective courses. Core courses include basic economics classes, like microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. Elective courses explore more specialized areas of economics, like consumer economics, money and banking, and economics forecasting.
In addition to offering the accelerated option, this program also has one of the lowest student debt levels for graduates at just $16,354. This is well below the U.S. average of $36,510.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of bachelor’s degree can I get in economics?
The most common type of undergraduate degree in economics is a bachelor of science. This type of degree focuses more on the science of economics and its technical applications, such as financial economics. Usually, you’ll find that B.S. degrees in economics have more requirements in math and statistics as well.
Bachelor of arts degrees in economics focus more on the liberal arts applications of economics, like the history of economics. Instead of being heavy with math and statistics courses, B.A. programs usually incorporate other social sciences like sociology and psychology, into the curriculum.
There are other degree options as well. Though less common, you’ll find that some programs offer a bachelor of business administration (B.B.A.). Naturally, this type of undergraduate degree focuses on the application of economics in business settings.
What can I do with a bachelor’s degree in economics?
Usually, a bachelor’s degree in economics opens up doors to entry-level positions. You might find a job as a financial advisor or an economic consultant. Many day traders have undergraduate degrees in economics, too. Other possibilities include:
- financial analyst
- management consultant
- credit analyst
- or start your own business
Another option is to use your undergraduate degree as a starting point for continuing your education. Many undergrads go to graduate school and major in business, marketing, finance, or even law. In each case, having a bachelor’s degree in economics will prepare you well for the rigors of advanced learning.
Are online economics degrees frowned upon?
Absolutely not! Online learning has come a long way since its inception two decades ago. Today, the rich and immersive online learning environments that colleges and universities offer mean you can earn your degree from the comfort of your home while also having every opportunity to interact with your professors and classmates.
In fact, many schools have poured millions of dollars into their online learning programs to make them every bit as robust as the programs offered on campus.
It’s important to note that online degrees from most colleges and universities are not designated as such. That means that a degree you earn online will look the exact same and be notated as the same on your transcripts as a degree earned on campus.
Can I earn a bachelor’s degree in economics completely online?
Yes! While some programs require on-campus visits or offer a hybrid program with some courses only offered on campus and others only offered online, plenty of other institutions have wholly online degree programs in economics. Each of the programs in our rankings is 100 percent online.
Are online economics degrees accredited?
Each of the programs in our rankings is regionally accredited, which means they are held to a certain standard in terms of the quality of educational services they provide. Not all online programs can claim this, however. Some online undergraduate programs in economics are from schools that are nationally accredited, which is not as prestigious as regional accreditation. Yet other online schools aren’t accredited at all, which can cause significant issues down the road.
If a program isn’t accredited, future employers might worry about the quality of education that you received. Additionally, credits that you earn from a non-accredited school are far less likely to transfer to another school. So, if you spend two years completing 30 credits from an online school that isn’t accredited, you could very well be in a situation in which your credits don’t transfer and you have to start over from scratch.
This being the case, accreditation is hugely important when you’re evaluating schools. That’s why we only consider accredited schools for our rankings.
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