Economics
Understand Markets and Decision-Making with an Economics Major
An economics degree from Elon University teaches you to think strategically about how people, businesses and governments make decisions. Through data analysis, policy exploration and hands-on research opportunities, you will learn to apply economic theory to real-world challenges facing markets, organizations and communities.
Elon’s economics program blends quantitative rigor with a liberal arts foundation. You will develop skills in analyzing data, conducting research and communicating findings to a broad audience, preparing you to apply your economics major in fields such as management consulting, public policy, law and business.
From Fed Challenge to the Federal Reserve
One of the things Emma Leonard ’25 valued about Elon University was the freedom to explore a range of subjects while developing her interests in economics. With access to courses across the Love School of Business and the university, she could follow her interests, discover connections, and bring new perspectives into her study of economics, shaping an interdisciplinary academic experience.
After taking Principles of Economics with Associate Professor Brandon Sheridan, Leonard found herself drawn to the way economics explains human behavior and decision-making, confirming that economics was a subject she wanted to pursue. She went on to major in economics and psychology, add minors in mathematics and art, and pursue experiences that took her far beyond the classroom.
Elon’s College Fed Challenge deepened that interest, introducing Leonard to applied macroeconomics, monetary policy and collaborative research. From there, opportunities built on one another.
“If it weren’t for the first year of Fed Challenge, then I would not have been so interested in econ,” Leonard said. “Then I wouldn’t have taken a math class, and then I wouldn’t have gotten into the summer program, and then I wouldn’t have had the same ideas for my thesis.”
Leonard also served as an economics teaching assistant, helped develop a peer mentoring program and presented undergraduate research at professional conferences. Those experiences prepared her to step directly from Elon into a research assistant role at the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.
“It gave me a sense of community and purpose,” Leonard said of Elon. “I really don’t think that I would have found the same passion for economics had it not been for everyone.”
Why Choose the Economics Degree at Elon?
STEM-designated major
Elon’s Economics major is classified as a STEM degree by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, recognizing the program’s focus on data analytics, quantitative reasoning and applied research.
Hands-on experience
Participate in the Econ Games, the Fed Challenge or the student-run journal Issues in Political Economy. These experiences strengthen your skills in research design, teamwork, and policy analysis.
Mentorship and networking
Connect with peers, alumni and faculty through the Economics Peer Mentoring Program, Economics Club and Omicron Delta Epsilon honor society. Learn from visiting professionals and participate in networking events that link classroom theory with career opportunities.
Career versatility
Graduates pursue careers in economic consulting, finance, public policy and research, or continue their studies in economics, law and business.
What You’ll Learn
As an economics major, you will complete Elon’s strong business and liberal arts core while building a foundation in micro- and macroeconomic theory, statistics, econometrics and applied research. View full degree requirements in the academic catalog.