Economic Consulting
Elevate Your Career with an Economic Consulting Major
The Economic Consulting major at Elon blends economic theory, business strategy, and hands-on analytics to prepare you for careers that rely on evidence-based decision-making. You’ll study how markets work, learn to interpret complex data, and practice delivering insights that help organizations solve problems and make informed choices.
Turning Classroom Theory into Real Economic Insight
When economic consulting major Emily Alps began working on a research project for the Alamance Chamber, she did not expect it to shape her future so clearly. Partnering with Assistant Professor Brooks Depro, she analyzed the economic impact of a multimillion-dollar expansion by Lotus Bakeries, learning how local decisions create ripple effects throughout a community.
What started as a class assignment quickly became real consulting experience. Alps used IMPLAN Cloud, a professional modeling tool, to study job creation, spending patterns and long-term regional effects. “This project helped me develop skills that are essential for the professional world,” she said. “It boosted my confidence and showed me how economic consulting can support both businesses and communities.”
Mentorship played a central role in her experience. Depro guided her through technical modeling, data interpretation and client communication, ensuring she understood not just the numbers but the story they told. “He took such an interest in the project,” Alps said. “It made the work meaningful and made me feel prepared for what comes next.”
The opportunity confirmed her interest in economic consulting and opened doors for future projects that connect students with real clients. A student-athlete on the cross-country and track teams, Alps balanced rigorous academics with research, internships and campus involvement, crediting Elon’s supportive environment for helping her thrive.
Expected to graduate in 2024, she is already applying her skills with confidence. “Analyzing the impact of business decisions is something I find fascinating,” she said. “Elon has given me the experience, mentorship and foundation I need to make a strong start in my career.”
Why Choose the Economic Consulting Major at Elon
A business-focused economics degree
Learn economic theory through a business lens by completing the Love School of Business core along with specialized coursework in applied microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and market analysis.
Real consulting experience before graduation
Work on client-driven projects through the senior experience course, where you define problems, gather data, and deliver recommendations that mirror the expectations of professional consulting firms.
High-demand analytical skills
Strengthen your abilities in forecasting, cost-benefit analysis, economic modeling, Excel proficiency, survey design, and data visualization. These are the tools top consulting firms look for in new analysts.
Faculty who consult and mentor
Learn directly from professors who conduct research, lead consulting engagements, and guide students through applied projects, competitions, and research presentations.
Strong outcomes and professional pathways
Graduates are employed at leading firms such as Deloitte, FTI Consulting, HBMJ Consulting, Charles Schwab, Accenture, KPMG, PwC, Morgan Stanley, Raymond James, and Wells Fargo.
What You Will Learn
As an Economic Consulting major, you will complete Elon’s business core while developing advanced skills in economic analysis, data interpretation, and consulting methods. View full degree requirements in the academic catalog.