What is Economics?
Embarking on a career as a Pennsylvania economist involves immersing yourself in the rigors of economic study within the state's flourishing academic landscape. By enrolling in an accredited economics program, you position yourself at the forefront of an evolving Pennsylvania economy. Here, the diverse study modules range from the bedrock principles of economic theory to the complex tenets of policy analysis, each course carefully calibrated to convert analytical prowess into real-world problem-solving skills. Whether through online portals that offer flexibility or through on-campus traditional programs that promote engagement, your education in economics in Pennsylvania is tailored to cultivate the expertise needed to become an economist.
Top Ranked Campus & Online Economics Programs in Pennsylvania
University of Pennsylvania
Score: 88.25
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $66,104
- Out-of-State:$66,104
- Net Price: $26,123
- Acceptance Rate: 7%
- Retention Rate: 98%
- Graduation Rate: 96%
- Total Enrollment: 28,201
- Undergrad Students: 11,250
- Graduate Students: 16,951
- Grads Salary: $94,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
Carnegie Mellon University
Score: 87.78
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $63,829
- Out-of-State:$63,829
- Net Price: $33,499
- Acceptance Rate: 11%
- Retention Rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 92%
- Total Enrollment: 16,002
- Undergrad Students: 7,059
- Graduate Students: 8,943
- Grads Salary: $108,000
- Student-to-faculty: 5:1
Swarthmore College
Score: 85.8
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $62,412
- Out-of-State:$62,412
- Net Price: $20,715
- Acceptance Rate: 7%
- Retention Rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 94%
- Total Enrollment: 1,625
- Undergrad Students: 1,625
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $80,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
Haverford College
Score: 82.13
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $68,300
- Out-of-State:$68,300
- Net Price: $23,476
- Acceptance Rate: 14%
- Retention Rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Total Enrollment: 1,421
- Undergrad Students: 1,421
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
Villanova University
Score: 78.92
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $64,701
- Out-of-State:$64,701
- Net Price: $34,837
- Acceptance Rate: 23%
- Retention Rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Total Enrollment: 10,383
- Undergrad Students: 6,989
- Graduate Students: 3,394
- Grads Salary: $91,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh
Score: 76.91
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $21,524
- Out-of-State:$39,890
- Net Price: $24,286
- Acceptance Rate: 49%
- Retention Rate: 93%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Total Enrollment: 33,767
- Undergrad Students: 24,420
- Graduate Students: 9,347
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Franklin and Marshall College
Score: 76.02
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $68,380
- Out-of-State:$68,380
- Net Price: $31,135
- Acceptance Rate: 36%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- Total Enrollment: 1,990
- Undergrad Students: 1,990
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $84,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
The Pennsylvania State University
Score: 75.38
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,234
- Out-of-State:$40,188
- Net Price: $26,747
- Acceptance Rate: 55%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 83%
- Total Enrollment: 50,028
- Undergrad Students: 41,745
- Graduate Students: 8,283
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Lafayette College
Score: 73.84
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $62,574
- Out-of-State:$62,574
- Net Price: $37,186
- Acceptance Rate: 34%
- Retention Rate: 90%
- Graduation Rate: 89%
- Total Enrollment: 2,729
- Undergrad Students: 2,729
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $86,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Grove City College
Score: 73.43
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,890
- Out-of-State:$20,890
- Net Price: $23,538
- Acceptance Rate: 71%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 81%
- Total Enrollment: 2,316
- Undergrad Students: 2,289
- Graduate Students: 27
- Grads Salary: $74,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Bucknell University
Score: 72.58
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $64,772
- Out-of-State:$64,772
- Net Price: $39,965
- Acceptance Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 87%
- Total Enrollment: 3,787
- Undergrad Students: 3,747
- Graduate Students: 40
- Grads Salary: $88,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
Temple University
Score: 71.27
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $22,082
- Out-of-State:$37,462
- Net Price: $23,935
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Retention Rate: 84%
- Graduation Rate: 78%
- Total Enrollment: 33,196
- Undergrad Students: 24,106
- Graduate Students: 9,090
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Lycoming College
Score: 70.63
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $47,675
- Out-of-State:$47,675
- Net Price: $19,697
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 64%
- Total Enrollment: 1,059
- Undergrad Students: 1,059
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Muhlenberg College
Score: 70.33
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $60,240
- Out-of-State:$60,240
- Net Price: $32,926
- Acceptance Rate: 66%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 83%
- Total Enrollment: 1,959
- Undergrad Students: 1,945
- Graduate Students: 14
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
La Salle University
Score: 70.02
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $35,570
- Out-of-State:$35,570
- Net Price: $17,552
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
- Retention Rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 4,049
- Undergrad Students: 2,773
- Graduate Students: 1,276
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Dickinson College
Score: 69.66
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $63,475
- Out-of-State:$63,475
- Net Price: $37,610
- Acceptance Rate: 35%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Total Enrollment: 2,137
- Undergrad Students: 2,125
- Graduate Students: 12
- Grads Salary: $79,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
Messiah University
Score: 69.42
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $40,640
- Out-of-State:$40,640
- Net Price: $24,120
- Acceptance Rate: 79%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 78%
- Total Enrollment: 3,231
- Undergrad Students: 2,495
- Graduate Students: 736
- Grads Salary: $68,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Penn State World Campus
Score: 69.34
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $15,204
- Out-of-State:$15,204
- Net Price: $19,551
- Acceptance Rate: 82%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 36%
- Total Enrollment: 13,979
- Undergrad Students: 8,210
- Graduate Students: 5,769
- Grads Salary: $94,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Allegheny College-Meadville
Score: 69.32
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $54,960
- Out-of-State:$54,960
- Net Price: $26,719
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- Total Enrollment: 1,353
- Undergrad Students: 1,353
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
Saint Vincent College
Score: 69.2
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $41,100
- Out-of-State:$41,100
- Net Price: $23,121
- Acceptance Rate: 73%
- Retention Rate: 84%
- Graduation Rate: 76%
- Total Enrollment: 1,536
- Undergrad Students: 1,359
- Graduate Students: 177
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Gettysburg College
Score: 68.77
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $64,230
- Out-of-State:$64,230
- Net Price: $33,882
- Acceptance Rate: 56%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 82%
- Total Enrollment: 2,854
- Undergrad Students: 2,241
- Graduate Students: 613
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
King's College
Score: 68.68
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $42,600
- Out-of-State:$42,600
- Net Price: $25,869
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
- Retention Rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 58%
- Total Enrollment: 1,993
- Undergrad Students: 1,671
- Graduate Students: 322
- Grads Salary: $87,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Ursinus College
Score: 68.61
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $59,196
- Out-of-State:$59,196
- Net Price: $33,546
- Acceptance Rate: 82%
- Retention Rate: 82%
- Graduation Rate: 73%
- Total Enrollment: 1,527
- Undergrad Students: 1,527
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $86,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Score: 68.21
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,507
- Out-of-State:$14,615
- Net Price: $17,873
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Retention Rate: 82%
- Graduation Rate: 66%
- Total Enrollment: 8,221
- Undergrad Students: 6,757
- Graduate Students: 1,464
- Grads Salary: $65,000
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Susquehanna University
Score: 67.89
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $57,400
- Out-of-State:$57,400
- Net Price: $28,605
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 76%
- Total Enrollment: 2,231
- Undergrad Students: 2,224
- Graduate Students: 7
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Understanding the Economics Field in Pennsylvania
If you're considering pursuing an economics degree in Pennsylvania, you'll find a robust curriculum designed to prepare you for a variety of economic challenges and opportunities. Programs typically start with foundational courses and advance into specialized areas, tailoring your learning to real-world applications.
At the heart of an economics degree in Pennsylvania are introductory courses in foundational knowledge, such as 'Introduction to Microeconomics' and 'Introduction to Macroeconomics'. These courses lay the groundwork for understanding complex economic theories and are crucial for every economics degree. What follows may be courses in econometrics, empirical microeconomics, the global economy, economic growth, international economics and international trade, health economics, how to interpret economic data, human behavior in economics, labor markets, business economics, industrial organization, labor economics, political economy planning such as monetary and fiscal policies, and economic and institutional development economics - which are designed to deepen your analytical skills and global economic perspective.
Institutions in Pennsylvania offer comprehensive paths for an economics degree aiming to excel in the field. These rigorous academic journeys usually entail core courses, as well as electives that allow you to focus on specialized categories according to your interests and career aspirations.
- Core Requirements: Essential for building a strong foundational knowledge in economic theory and quantitative methods.
- Quantitative Analysis Applications: Mathematics courses tailored to enhance your ability to apply quantitative analysis in economics.
- Specialized Electives: Options to delve into niche areas such as environmental economics, financial markets, or public policy.
For a successful career in economics, starting with a robust economics degree is essential. The varied and comprehensive coursework available equips you with the necessary tools to analyze and solve economic problems on both a micro and macro scale. Whether you're interested in pursuing a career in government, private sector, or academia - an economics degree in Pennsylvania provides the foundation and flexibility to pave your path forward.
Online vs. Campus Program Benefits
As you explore your educational options, focusing on flexibility and convenience brings into consideration the opportunities afforded by online economics degrees. Renowned institutions lead the way in providing accredited online economics programs in PA that are not only flexible but adhere strictly to the rigorous academic standards expected in higher education.
Online vs. On-campus Platforms
Choosing between online and on-campus learning platforms can be challenging. Online platforms allow you to manage your studies alongside personal commitments seamlessly. Academic institutions in Pennsylvania facilitate application processes and caters to preferences for online study, ensuring that your academic progression is uninterrupted by geographical or timing constraints. Structured to deliver the same depth of knowledge as on-campus alternatives, online economics degrees provide a viable pathway to achieving your academic and career objectives.
When considering accredited online economics programs in PA, it's essential to evaluate the quality of education and the credentials they offer upon completion. Online programs are meticulously designed to meet exacting standards, ensuring that your qualification holds as much weight as those obtained through traditional classroom settings.
Online Educational Pathways for an Economics Degree in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, the journey toward becoming a skilled economist encompasses a variety of educational pathways, each tailored to fit different career aspirations and academic needs. Whether you are just beginning your academic journey or looking to deepen your expertise, Pennsylvania offers robust programs, from undergraduate to doctoral levels.
Online Associate Degree in Economics (AS)
Pursuing an associate degree in economics is the first step for many students in Pennsylvania. These degrees can serve as a foundation, providing you with basic economic principles and analytical skills necessary for entry-level positions or further study in a bachelor's program. However, it’s important to know that you will likely not be able to work as an economist with just this degree; you will need to gain a higher-level degree to work in these roles. It takes two years to complete one of these programs.
National rankings for online AS in economicsOnline Bachelor’s Degree in Economics (BS)
A bachelor’s degree in economics paves the way for a deeper understanding of economic theories and quantitative methods. A bachelor’s in this field equips you with critical thinking skills and comprehensive knowledge that is essential for analyzing market trends and economic policies. It usually takes four years to complete one of these programs, though you may be able to find an accelerated program to finish more quickly.
National rankings for online BS in economics Hard college majorsOnline Master’s Degree in Economics (MS)
Advancing to a master’s degree in economics opens more specialized career paths in fields such as financial analysis, policy development, and economic consulting. Master's programs often emphasize both theoretical and applied economics, allowing you to tailor your studies to specific interests or career goals. These programs can take between one and two years to complete.
National rankings for online MS in economicsOnline PhD in Economics (PHD)
For those aspiring to reach the pinnacle of academic achievement and enroll in the best PhD economics programs, Pennsylvania offers several top-tier options. An economics PhD degree is ideal for those looking to pursue careers in academia, high-level research, or Economist PhD-level positions in government and industry.
Read more about business management resources and scholarships Check out our financial aid guideOnline Economics Certifications
Certifications can complement your degree by highlighting specialized skills in areas such as econometrics, economic forecasting, or environmental economics. These certifications are valuable for demonstrating your proficiency to potential employers or for advancing your professional capabilities.
Degree Type | Program Focus | Career Outcomes |
---|---|---|
Associate Degree | Introduction to Economics, Microeconomics, Macroeconomics | Entry-level roles in business, finance, government |
Bachelor’s Degree | Economic Theory, Quantitative Methods, Economic Policy Analysis | Financial Analyst, Economic Consultant, Policy Advisor |
Master’s Degree | Advanced Economic Theory, Research Methods, Specialized Electives | Sr. Financial Analyst, Policy Analysis, Director of Economic Research |
PhD | Advanced Research, Dissertation Work, Teaching | University Professor, Lead Economist, Policy Maker |
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Pursuing higher education in economics, whether in economic development or financial economics, will often require substantial financial investment. Fortunately, numerous financial aid options are available to support your ambition of completing an economics major. Students enrolled in economics courses, whether online or on-campus, have access to various scholarships and grants. These financial supports aim to alleviate the economic barriers you might face, allowing you to focus more on your studies and less on financial constraints.
Find Online Economics Schools
Below is a comprehensive table that outlines some of the typical financial aid options available for students pursuing economics in Pennsylvania. This table includes information on the type of aid, eligibility criteria, and whether the aid is specifically allocated for financial economics or other economics majors.
Type of Aid | Eligibility | Notes |
---|---|---|
Scholarships | Undergraduate, GPA & Essay | Usually requires submission of an essay on economic topics |
Grants | Needs-based | Focus on assisting low-income students |
Loans | Enrolled in accredited program | Repayment generally begins after graduation |
Work-Study Programs | Part-time enrolled students | Provides part-time employment to help finance education costs |
Exploring financial aid – whether grants or scholarships - can be significantly beneficial for you. They not only offer financial relief but also empower a diverse group of students to chase their aspirations in economics. Such opportunities enrich the talent pool and contribute positively to the broader economic landscape of Pennsylvania.
Accreditations, Certifications and Licensing
When you choose an economics program in Pennsylvania, accreditation status should be one of your top considerations. Accredited economics programs must meet rigorous standards, ensuring that your education is recognized and valued in the professional arena.
Certifications issued by prestigious economics departments stand as robust indicators of expertise and specialized knowledge in the field. These certifications not only enhance your credentials but also boost your employability and credibility in the competitive job market. Furthermore, obtaining a license and maintaining it with continuing professional development credits is crucial for those aiming to ascend to the upper echelons of the economics field.
Accreditation/Certification | Description | Benefit |
---|---|---|
Regional Accreditation | Accreditation from recognized regional bodies | Ensures entire institution meets high educational standards |
Programmatic Accreditation | Specific to economics programs accredited by business and economics education standards | Highlights specialized adherence to the best practices in business and/or economics education |
Economics Certification | Issued by established economics departments upon completion of certain courses and exams | Boosts professional profile and job market competitiveness |
State Licensing | Required for certain positions within economic analysis and public sector roles | Legally necessary to perform specific roles; ensures ongoing professional development |
Securing an education from accredited economics programs in PA not only provides you with optimal training but also prepares you for certifications and licensing necessary for a flourishing career in economics. As you progress, the credentials obtained from a solid economics department will serve as a testament to your qualifications and commitment to the field.
Potential Career Options and Salaries for Economics Graduates
Embarking on a career in economics after graduating from one of Pennsylvania's best undergraduate economics programs is an exhilarating prospect. With the skills and knowledge acquired, the economics job market presents numerous lucrative and fulfilling positions. You have the flexibility to sculpt a career path that aligns with your interests, whether it's in the corporate sphere, the public sector, or education.
Operations Manager:
Job description: As an operations manager, you play a pivotal role in streamlining processes and enhancing productivity within an organization. Your expertise in economics empowers you to drive strategic decisions and optimize operational workflows, thus ensuring the profitability and sustainability of the business.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in operations management or business administration, 5 years or more work experience
- Plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of public or private sector organizations, overseeing multiple departments or locations
- Review financial statements, sales or activity reports, or other performance data to measure productivity or goal achievement or to identify areas needing cost reduction or program improvement
- Direct and coordinate activities of businesses or departments concerned with the production, pricing, sales, or distribution of products
- Direct administrative activities directly related to making products or providing services
Median Salary: $129,330
Learn moreRisk Manager:
Job description: In the role of a risk manager, your primary focus is to mitigate financial risks and protect the fiscal health of the enterprise. Your ability to apply economic principles to predict market trends and assess potential threats is invaluable. By effectively managing uncertainty, you become a linchpin in your organization, poised to steer clear of financial pitfalls and ensure stability in an often volatile market.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree, 5 years or more work experience
- Analyze and measure exposure to credit and market risk threatening the assets, earning capacity, or economic state of an organization
- Analyze new legislation to determine impact on risk exposure
- Conduct statistical analyses to quantify risk, using statistical analysis software or econometric models
- Confer with traders to identify and communicate risks associated with specific trading strategies or positions
Median Salary: $118,950
Learn moreLogistician:
Job description: Efficiency in the supply chain is indispensable and, as a logistician, your task is crucial in orchestrating the seamless movement of goods and services. Utilizing analytical skills honed through your education, you'll ensure that the supply chain is both cost-effective and robust, catering to the fast-paced demands of a globalized economy. Your input can drive significant cost savings and enhance customer satisfaction, marking your importance in the logistics domain.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree, Growth Potential 18% (Much faster than average)
- Analyze and coordinate the ongoing logistical functions of a firm or organization
- Oversee product acquisition
- Direct the allocation of materials, supplies, and products
- Forecast and direct the alignment of a product’s demand and supply flows
Median Salary: $84,640
Postsecondary Economics Teacher:
Job description: Should your passion for economics be matched by a desire to shape minds, then becoming a postsecondary economics teacher offers a rewarding path. By imparting your knowledge to the next wave of economists, you contribute significantly to the academic fabric of Pennsylvania. Moreover, your engagement with burgeoning talents allows you to stay at the forefront of economic research and thought, thus continually enriching your own expertise while nurturing the future of the discipline.
Requirements:
- PhD, Growth Potential 8% (Faster than average)
- Teach courses in economics
- Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as econometrics, price theory, and macroeconomics
- Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts
- Conduct research in a particular field of knowledge and publish findings in professional journals, books, or electronic media
Median Salary: $133,650
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I become an economist?
To become an economist in Pennsylvania, you can start by enrolling in an accredited economics program to earn a degree in the field. You'll be required to complete coursework in economic theory, mathematics, statistical analysis, and various specialized areas of economics. Graduates often pursue roles that require analytical and quantitative skills in both the public and private sectors within Pennsylvania's economy.
Are there online economics programs available in Pennsylvania?
Yes, there are online economics programs available that provide the same quality education as on-campus programs. These degrees are offered by accredited institutions and provide flexible learning options for students who have other commitments or prefer the convenience of studying from any location.
What should I look for regarding accreditation for an online economics program?
When choosing an online economics program, you should look for accreditation from recognized societies or education boards that ensure the program meets established standards of quality and rigor. Accreditation is important as it validates the educational experience and is often required for licensure, certification, and employment opportunities.