Economics provides the foundation for all business disciplines. Therefore, it is one of the most popular majors at NYU. Here, there are two very strong programs to choose from. In both youʼll expand your vocabulary. Youʼll learn how to leverage economic tools and discover the nuances of the field. Whatʼs more, youʼll understand your own spending habits a bit better. You might not be the next Rockefeller, but being centrally located in this city puts you in a great position for success! Weʼll discuss the breakdown of the two programs so you can determine which is a better fit for you.
Want to learn about studying economics across the global network? Check out my colleagueʼs article “How to Choose an Economics Major at NYU.”
Stern School of Business
Bachelor of Science, Business (Concentrations in Business Economics and Econometrics and Quantitative Economics)
There are two different options to study economics at Stern. The Business major with a concentration in business economics or econometrics and quantitative economics is the first option. A BS in Business and Political Economy is the other. Both build on the various core principles of Stern: liberal arts, social impact, business tools, functional business, and global business. Check out the Business curriculum here. Stern students say the program is more practical and applied.
Furthermore, Stern students are very active within their communities. The Social Impact Core reflects the community’s dedication to society’s fundamental issues. In addition, there are numerous organizations and clubs to join depending on your specific business interests.
College of Arts and Science
Bachelor of Arts, Economics
Students learn about the structure of markets and economies and the relationship between regions in the global economy at the CAS Department of Economics. Generally speaking, this major is more theoretical in nature that Stern’s. Youʼll learn the fundamentals and applications of economic theory. Since your professors are actively engaged in research, youʼll have the opportunity to do your own research in the program too!
The departmentʼs major can be taken in either one of two concentrations, theory or policy. In other words, theory is for those who want a more formal approach to economic analysis. Policy is for students who prefer a path that highlights the role of institutions and the intersections of policy and theory. Furthermore, you can explore the possibilities of the departmentʼs honors program. It allows students access to excellent professors in small classes. Honors students will write a senior thesis with help from faculty members.
Learn more about the curriculum and required coursework. Students will follow CASʼ core curriculum grounded in a liberal arts foundation. CAS also offers two joint majors: Computer Science and Economics and Economics and Mathematics.
Career/Future Outcomes
Both programs make students eligible to apply for the NYU x NYU / Stern program. This program offers highly qualified and motivated students the opportunity to pursue their MBA at Stern within two to five years after graduation. Students admitted to the program will also receive a $10,000 scholarship to be used for their MBA tuition!
Students majoring in Economics have many options open to them after graduation. The major prepares them for graduate school or careers in business management or public administration. Youʼll find that this major meets requirements for medical or law school demands. Likewise, it provides a solid foundation for any career. Above all, studying at NYU is especially rewarding because of our status as an urban campus. Students in CAS and Stern work with our Wasserman Center for Career Development to find internships and career opportunities in many different fields.
Student Stories
Jessica, Stern ʼ18
Jessica had many internships over the course of her undergraduate career. She interned for Imagine Easy, the company that created EasyBib. While studying away in Prague, she volunteered at elementary schools to teach Czech students English. After returning, Jessica interned at Morgan Stanley and JPMorgan doing investment management. JPMorgan gave her a full-time offer, and she still works there today.
Helen, CAS ʼ22
During Helenʼs time at NYU so far, sheʼs had a variety of internship opportunities and built a network of peers and professors at the University. As a first year, she joined a business fraternity (at Stern), which allowed her to meet a group of like-minded peers. Even as a CAS student, sheʼs been able to get involved within Stern communities. Sheʼs been able to develop connections with professors who have helped her get on the right track as her interests shifted from business to computer science. In particular, her computer security professor invited her to be his teaching assistant. NYUʼs resources and community have played a really important role in helping Helen develop her interests, obtain internship offers, and ultimately provide security.