Economics
Why Study Economics at UNC Asheville?
In the economics major, we ask big questions to uncover meaningful answers. Guided by economic principles, these answers solve global issues from poverty to the environment.
Study Contemporary Issues
As a public liberal arts university, we provide exceptional opportunities for economics majors, like small and collaborative classes, mentorship from faculty, and the ability to apply economic principles to modern-day issues such as the environment, human diversity, finance, and globalization. Through a comprehensive curriculum and hands-on learning experiences, students contend with real-world problems and seek innovative and impactful solutions.
Careers & Outcomes
Through our robust curriculum and hands-on opportunities, UNC Asheville economics majors acquire important skills employers seek in a variety of fields, including finance, small business, education, the nonprofit sector, government, and more. Many graduates also use their research experience as a stepping stone to graduate school in economics and data analytics or professional school in business and law. For all students, their experiences at UNC Asheville are essential to their critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability.
Internships in Economics
In the last year, economics students have found internships at companies such as AG Analytics, Pine Gate Renewables, and Earth Equity Advisors, a local ESG investment firm. In their work, they report learning how data is used for calculating financial and climate risk, as well as the nuances of transitioning to a more sustainable energy grid and how to put money to work to make sustainable changes to our world - all essential skills for anyone interested in finance, business, policy, or sustainability.
Graduate Sooner. Start Your Future Faster.
Graduate Sooner. Start Your Future Faster.
The Accelerated 3-Year Degree Plan in Economics is designed for motivated students ready to complete their B.A. in just six semesters. By taking a full-time course load and following a carefully structured plan, students can fulfill all major and Liberal Arts Core requirements without compromising academic quality or access to key opportunities like internships, research, or personalized advising. This option not only allows students to save on tuition and living costs but also enables them to enter the workforce or pursue graduate studies a year earlier. It’s a focused, efficient path that requires strong time-management skills and regular academic guidance to stay on track.
Shaping Tomorrow's Leaders:
The economics major isn’t a one-size-fits-all program. Our students tailor their education to their unique interests and career goals by pursuing either the general economics or teacher licensure pathway.
Economics is the study of people’s decision making. To me, there is no better scope through which to understand the material and social world around us. There is no industry, no person, no community, no country in the whole world that can not be analyzed and studied using Economic Theory. To me, Economics is one of the most useful fields of study; not only is it interesting, but it gives you real world applicable tools that you can use in your daily life.
Focus Your Interests
Others have chosen to undertake entrepreneurship, both locally and nationally, or pursued research careers at RTI International. We are also proud that several recent alumni have attended graduate school in various fields including Economics, Finance, Business Administration (MBA), Business Analytics, and Museum Studies. Those seeking a graduate degree in economics, finance, and data analytics have gone on to top schools, including Duke, American, Clark, Villanova, Vanderbilt, California-Davis, Wake Forest, North Carolina, and University of Miami, as well as UNC-Greensboro’s highly regarded terminal economics master’s program.
Accounting For What Was Lost
Sorting through 171 boxes of detailed information, maps, and photographs of some 1,240 Asheville homes, lots, and businesses, economics majors investigate the impacts of urban renewal on the local area. Delving into these historical documents, students and faculty work together to make their data and analyses publicly accessible as the City of Asheville moves toward its reparations goals. Read more about our efforts accounting for what was lost.
Dylan McBridewood and Felipe Ahumada
Dylan McBridewood (pictured) and Felipe Ahumada approached climate research from an economics perspective. “My work contributes to accurately pricing climate risks within municipal bonds, potentially leading to increased financing costs in flood-prone regions and reduced costs in safer areas.”
Felipe Ahumada
Felipe Ahumada took a different research route and applied economics to the prestigious McCullough Fellowship, which focuses on conservation, land use, and environmental resiliency.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
Lead a Research Project
All economics majors undertake a research project, a résumé-building experience that adds immense value whether students plan on attending graduate school or heading straight into their career. Research opportunities may present themselves through the Undergraduate Research Program or a capstone project in ECON 450, where students will explore a topic and prepare a research proposal. This proposal is implemented in the following semester in ECON 480. Students can pursue their interests in a range of possible topics, from the ROI of a city’s renewable energy project to the cost of locally produced foods to the price of NBA tickets.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
Scholarship Opportunities
The cost of education shouldn’t be a barrier to a student’s future. That’s why UNC Asheville is committed to making education more affordable, enabling scholarships and financial aid access to 70% of students. Those pursuing an economics degree may consider seeking out scholarships offered both through the University as well as those specific to the area of study, many of which are the result of generous gifts from alumni and friends of the Economics Department.
Meet the Faculty
Meet the Faculty
Small class sizes and our liberal arts focus make the economics major ideal for students seeking a personalized education. Our supportive faculty mentor students through their studies and guide them as they take on research projects, encouraging their curiosity and independence at every step of the way.
Related Programs
Ready For What's Next?
Our Bachelor of Arts in Economics degree program allows you to connect with contemporary issues as you develop your skills in meaningful, impactful research opportunities. Supportive faculty, scholarship opportunities, and student clubs and organizations enrich your educational experience and prepare you to excel in your future endeavors.