"Economics is, at root, the study of incentives: how people get what they want, or need, especially when other people want or need the same thing. "
 ~Stephen D. Levitt & Stephen D. Dubner

What is economics?

Economists analyze how society creates and distributes goods and services, such as land, labor, raw materials, and machinery. Among the many different types of research that are performed, collecting and analyzing data, monitoring economic trends, and developing forecasts are just a few examples. Energy costs, inflation, interest rates, exchange rates, business cycles, taxes, and employment levels, are a few of the popular areas of study that Economists research. Almost as significant as the findings of their research is the ability to effectively communicate the results to companies and sections of the government.

The Bachelor of Arts in Economics program at William Paterson University is part of the Economics, Finance, and Global Business Department housed in the College of Business. To major in economics students must complete the Economics program core courses, which allow the student to learn the fundamentals of economics. These core courses include Macroeconomic Principles, Microeconomic Principles, The National Economy, and International Economy. Economic majors must also complete 18 credits of other economic course requirements. These courses vary and may include Economic Statistics, Comparative Economic Systems, Independent Study, Practicum, and Internships.

To learn more about the degree requirements, please visit this link:
http://www.wpunj.edu/cob/COB_new/undergraduate/ugecon.html

Admissions information on Economics is located here:
http://www.wpunj.edu/admissions/undergraduate/academic-programs/programs_detail.dot?id=125416

What interests and skills do potential employers value in this career?

• Understanding and interpreting financial matters
• Marketing research
• Conducting interviews and surveys
• Research skills
• Data processing skills
• Excellent writing skills
• Patience and persistence
• Data collection
• Research report writing
• Attention to detail
• Communication skills
• Quantitative analysis
• Competency in mathematics
• Strong computer skills

What types of jobs can economics majors get?

Work Environment :
Economists, or careers related to economics, are located in a variety of industries and environments. Many economists choose to work in large cities with federal governments, local government, or private agencies. Some even choose to work abroad with a major international operations with U.S. government agencies or international organizations. A number of economists work in scientific research fields, developmental services, and management. Others work as faculty in colleges and universities where they can teach and conduct research.

Possible Job Titles

Aside from majoring in economics, what else can I do that may enhance my qualifications?

Successful students tend to seek out opportunities to enhance their qualifications through a variety of means. Withing economics, it is recommended to find an internship related to student's interest within the field. Participating in workshops and seminars to help develop stronger computer skills, including spreadsheets, databases, and presentation software is beneficial; developing connections through networking may aide in finding employment and joining the Student Business Association; gaining practical experience through an internship/practicum/job shadowing.

Where else can I read about public health?

Related Web Sites :

Industry Information www.vault.com

Occupational Outlook www.bls.gov/oco

Job Search and Salary Information www.rileyguide.com

MBA Information www.mba.com

NJ Finance Information www.njnextstop.org

American Economic Association www.vanderbilt.edu/AEA/#

International Atlantic Economic Society www.iaes.org

National Association for Business Economics www.nabe.com

National Association for Economics Educators ecedweb.unomaha.edu/naee/home.shtml

National Association of Forensic Economics nafe.net/default.aspx

Other sources of information :

Please drop by the Career Development and Advisement Center to learn more about careers in economics. The career library carries career-specific books and counselors are available to answer any further questions you may have. Visiting the Economics, Finance, and Global Business Department on campus may also prove valuable in addressing questions.

The Career Development and Gloria S. Williams Advisement Center
Student Center 301, 300 Pompton Road Wayne, NJ 07470
Phone 973.720.2281/2282 Fax 973.720.2074

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