Career Options for Economics
Economics: The Science of Choice
What is the best price to charge for a product? How do businesses and governments decide how to spend their revenues? When taxes go up or down, what are the consequences for families and businesses? How will new international trade agreements affect jobs and wealth? How do people decide what products to buy, and why do they sometimes buy things (like junk food) that they know are unhealthy? How are professional athletes’ salaries determined?
Economics is the science of choice and its outcomes. By completing a degree in Economics at McMaster University, you can learn the answers to these questions and more!
Career Options for Economics Graduates
Here are some of the most frequently-reported career categories for Economics graduates in Canada, according to census data:
Economists in the workforce can:
-
Solve management problems and help senior leaders make important strategic, investment, and operations decisions for both for-profit businesses and not-for-profit organizations.
-
Solve problems faced by governments and enhance social and economic policies.
-
Analyze data to inform decision-making and improve the performance of businesses and governments.
Employers want the skills that Economics graduates have, such as:
- Big data analysis and data-driven decision-making.
- Economic forecasting to help with long-term decision-making.
- Knowledge of economic institutions and a strong understanding of government policies affecting for-profit businesses and not-for-profit organizations.
- Understanding the global economy, trade opportunities, and international government policies.
- Understanding economic policies that can help grow local and national economies, create jobs, and build wealth.
- Strong problem-solving, research, analysis and decision-making skills.
- Clear verbal and written presentation skills to demonstrate research findings and evidence.
Common Sectors of Employment
Economics graduates often work in the following sectors:
Information Box Group
Career Advising Contact An Advisor
Explore online and in-person resources to support you in your career development and planning.
Get Experience Explore Opportunities
Explore opportunities for paid work, volunteer positions, and community engagement.
Economics Program Information Visit the Economics Site
Explore the courses and degree pathways available by visiting the Economics program website.