Economics is not strictly a business discipline, but a social science that involves the study of how goods and services are produced, distributed and consumed. Modern economics study makes extensive use of mathematical and statistical models in order to predict outcomes. An economics major can be of value to you not only in the field of business, but also in fields such as government work, law enforcement, education or politics.
You may begin your studies in economics at the undergraduate level, earning either a B.A. or a B.S. in economics. Typically the B.A. will have an additional liberal arts component such as the study of one or more foreign languages, and is often used as the basis for further studies in fields including international relations, political science, history, journalism or criminal justice. The B.S. will include additional work with quantitative analysis, and can lead directly to careers in areas such as economic research, financial analysis and equity analysis in profit and nonprofit sectors, governmental agencies and international organizations.
Master of Arts or Science degrees in economics will allow you to pursue the discipline at an advanced level, and prepare for higher-level professional careers in business or government. You may earn an MBA in Economics, which will provide a sound basis for a career in financial or market analysis or a position as a chief financial officer or in a consulting role. A PhD in economics could find you working in a think tank or teaching at a college or university.

