The University of Virginia (UVA) offers a highly regarded Economics major, providing students with a solid foundation in economic principles, analytical methods, and real-world applications. To earn a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Economics, students must complete a rigorous curriculum that includes coursework in both core economic theory and specialized fields.
Core Coursework
The core coursework for the Economics major at UVA covers foundational concepts in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and economic history. Required courses include:
- ECON 1010: Microeconomic Principles
- ECON 1020: Macroeconomic Principles
- ECON 2010: Intermediate Microeconomic Theory
- ECON 2020: Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory
- ECON 2110: Intermediate Econometrics
Specialized Coursework
In addition to the core coursework, students must complete a minimum of five elective courses in specialized fields of economics. These electives allow students to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations. Some popular elective options include:
- Behavioral Economics
- Development Economics
- Econometrics II
- Environmental Economics
- Health Economics
- Labor Economics
- Public Economics
Electives and Approved Substitutes
Students can also choose to take additional elective courses in economics or approved courses from other departments. Approved substitute courses include those in statistics, mathematics, computer science, and business administration. A maximum of two approved substitute courses may be used to count towards the major requirements.
Research and Thesis
Students have the option to conduct independent research and write a thesis under the supervision of a faculty mentor. The thesis option allows students to explore a specific topic in depth and contribute to original research in economics.
Degree Requirements
To earn a B.A. in Economics from UVA, students must complete a minimum of 33 credit hours of coursework in economics, including the core courses, specialized electives, and approved substitute courses. Students must also maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 in all economics coursework.
Career Prospects
An Economics major from UVA provides students with a versatile skillset that prepares them for a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates are highly sought-after in fields such as:
- Finance and banking
- Consulting
- Government and public policy
- Research and academia
- Data science and analytics
Benefits of Studying Economics at UVA
Rigorous Curriculum: UVA’s Economics major provides a challenging and intellectually stimulating curriculum that prepares students for success in both academic and professional settings.
Renowned Faculty: The Economics department at UVA boasts a renowned faculty of economists who are experts in their fields and actively engaged in research.
Exceptional Resources: Students have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, including the Institute for Policy and Economic Research (IPER) and the Miller Center for Public Affairs.
Career Support: The department offers dedicated career advising services to help students explore career options, prepare for job applications, and secure internships and employment.
Tips for Success
Succeeding in the Economics major at UVA requires a strong foundation in mathematics and statistics. Students should consider taking additional coursework in calculus, linear algebra, and probability theory.
Regular attendance and active participation in class are crucial for understanding the complex concepts discussed in economics courses.
Seek help from professors, teaching assistants, and classmates when needed. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification on topics you find challenging.
Table 1: Core Coursework for the Economics Major at UVA
| Course Code | Course Title |
|---|---|
| ECON 1010 | Microeconomic Principles |
| ECON 1020 | Macroeconomic Principles |
| ECON 2010 | Intermediate Microeconomic Theory |
| ECON 2020 | Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory |
| ECON 2110 | Intermediate Econometrics |
Table 2: Specialized Elective Options for the Economics Major at UVA
| Course Code | Course Title |
|---|---|
| ECON 3120 | Behavioral Economics |
| ECON 3230 | Development Economics |
| ECON 3340 | Econometrics II |
| ECON 3450 | Environmental Economics |
| ECON 3560 | Health Economics |
| ECON 3670 | Labor Economics |
| ECON 3780 | Public Economics |
Table 3: Degree Requirements for the Economics Major at UVA
| Category | Minimum Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| Core Courses | 15 |
| Specialized Electives | 10 |
| Approved Substitute Courses (Optional) | 8 |
| Total | 33 |
Table 4: Career Prospects for Economics Majors from UVA
| Industry | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Finance and Banking | $85,000 |
| Consulting | $75,000 |
| Government and Public Policy | $65,000 |
| Research and Academia | $60,000 |
| Data Science and Analytics | $90,000 |