The famous British economist Alfred Marshall wrote: “Economics is a study of mankind in the ordinary business of life.” A major in economics prepares one for many careers because it offers a clear, concise, and rigorous way of thinking about the ordinary business of life. For this reason, job recruiters and graduate admissions committees are favorably inclines toward economics majors. One enduring strength of economics is its logical, ordered way of looking at problems and issues. Economics is at the same time the most applies, most quantitative, and most scientific of the social sciences and the most theoretical of business subjects. It draws on history, philosophy, and mathematics to confront topics ranging from how households or businesses can make solid decisions to a societal issues such as unemployment, inflation, crime and environmental decay.

A major in economics is excellent preparation for employment in business or government, for professional study in law, business management, urban planning or public administration, or for graduate study in economics. Graduates of the UMBC economics programs: Enter the business world – many of our graduates become certified public accountants. Enter government service – employed as economists in local, state, or federal government. Attend business school – students get an MBA and enter middle management. Obtain an M.A. or Ph.D. in economics – these students will teach and conduct research at the college level or enter research oriented positions in government or business. Attend law school – a B.A. in economics is excellent preparation for a career in law.