Online Economics Degree

This article features the top 20 online economics bachelor’s degree programs. If you’re looking for good colleges for economics, our review has you covered.

Economics is a fascinating field that can help us make the world a better place. At its core, economics is all about using our resources in the best way possible to meet our needs and wants. It looks at how individuals, companies, and governments interact with each other in the market. It also studies the production, distribution, and consumption of resources. Economics is powerful because it helps us make smarter decisions every day. And those decisions improve our lives and those of others.

Economists are professionals who analyze economic data. Then, they make predictions about the economy. They also study the impact of government policies and economic factors. With an eye toward problem-solving, they use mathematics and statistics in their work. Some subfields within economics include:

Featured Programs

Microeconomics

Microeconomics studies the behavior of individuals and firms in the marketplace. 

Macroeconomics

Macroeconomics examines the overall performance of the economy.

International Economics

International Economics analyzes trade and globalization.

Behavioral Economics

Behavioral Economics studies the emotional factors that influence economic decision-making.

An online bachelor’s degree in economics opens up a wealth of career opportunities. For instance, a financial analyst advises clients on investment choices based on their research. Data analysts interpret data and assist companies with important business decisions. Government economists analyze economic policies. And business consultants offer strategic advice to organizations. 

Those with an economics background may become loan officers, credit analysts, economic journalists, and more. An economics degree can help in careers such as:

• Actuary
• Personal financial advisor
• Healthcare analytics specialist
• Statistician
• Financial analyst
• Financial examiner
• Operations research analyst
• Budget analyst
• Accountant
• Auditor
• Supply chain analyst
• Insurance Underwriter
• Mortgage loan associate
• Securities trader
• Business journalist
• Financial manager
• Economist
• Management Analyst
• Market research analyst

Earning your bachelor’s degree in economics online can give you freedom and flexibility. You don’t have to sacrifice your current job or other responsibilities to further your career. In this article, we’ll explore the top 20 best colleges for economics undergraduate degrees online.

Benefits of Pursuing Bachelor’s in Economics Online

There are many colleges across the country offering on-campus economics degrees. But more schools than ever are offering economics bachelor’s degree (and graduate) programs. In online bachelor’s programs, students study foundational coursework in economics. In graduate programs, they complete upper-division courses. There are many benefits for students interested in pursuing an economics degree online:

Flexibility and Convenience

In online learning programs, economics majors can typically study at their own pace. Most online degrees are asynchronous, meaning students create their own schedules. A few programs have synchronous classes. This is where all students meet simultaneously in a virtual classroom. Even then, the convenience of logging in from wherever you are just can’t be beat. Additionally, most online degrees can be pursued full or part-time. This allows economics students to continue working and taking care of other obligations. 

Affordability

Online degrees are often more affordable than on-campus programs. Why? Unlike a traditional economics program, you don’t need to pay for housing, meal plans, and other associated fees. You can stay home to earn your degree. Online degrees also eliminate the need for commuting to campus. So you save on gas, maintenance, and other costs. 

Unparalleled Access to Advanced Technology

Remote degree programs are delivered through online learning management systems. These innovative platforms give students access to diverse resources and technologies. These include online libraries, virtual labs, and interactive learning tools. These resources also allow economics students to gain the technical skills needed in today’s workforce.

Opportunities for Networking

Online degrees open up more opportunities for networking than ever before. Students can connect online with their professors during online office hours using tools like Zoom. And they will have plenty of opportunities to collaborate with fellow students on a variety of projects. Additionally, they will interact with people from all over the world in the economics profession. This allows them to develop personal connections in the field. And these can be invaluable as they move forward in their careers. 

High-Quality Education

Online students follow the same rigorous curriculum that students on campus do. And they are taught by the same experienced economics department instructors. Additionally, students earn the same degree. In short, online programs are identical to those taught in person.

Attend Your Dream School

With online education, attending the college of your dreams has never been more of a reality. You don’t need to move halfway across the country to go to your favorite college. Instead, out-of-state students can let their favorite college come to them, no matter where they live. 

Methodology For The Top Online Economics Bachelor’s Degree Programs

To determine the top economics colleges, we consulted NCES College Navigator. From there, we found all the bachelor of economics online programs. The ranking system we’ve used to create this list is based on four factors. They include:

• Tuition
• Number of Applicants Admitted
• Graduation Rate
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio

Each part of the criteria represents several points, and we have listed them in descending order, with the number one school at the bottom of the list. If there was a tie between schools, we gave higher placement to the college with lower total tuition fees. Please note that the tuition costs listed are based on undergraduate in-state programs. Out-of-state students may have different costs. With the criteria that we’re using, here’s how we’ve calculated those points: 

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

• 15:1 and under – 3 Points
• 16:1 to 20:1 – 2 Points
• More than 20:1 – 1 Point

Undergraduate Tuition

• Less than $10,000/year – 3 Points
• $10,001-$20,000/year – 2 Points
• More than $20,000/year – 1 Point

Applicants Admitted

• Less than 50% – 1 Point
• More than 50% – 3 Points

Graduation Rate

• 50% or Greater – 3 Points
• 25%-49% – 2 Points
• Less than 25% – 1 Point

Top 20 Best Online Colleges for a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics

School Name	Student/Faculty Ratio	Tuition	Applicants Admitted	GradRate
Regent University	21:1	$19,680	41%	61%
Ottawa University	11:1	$33,380	67%	34%
Colorado Christian University	15:1	$37,432	100%	58%
Limestone University	13:1	$26,300	87%	67%
University of Massachusetts at Lowell	18:1	$16,182	85%	69%
University of Arizona	17:1	$13,275	87%	64%
Colorado State University	17:1	$12,874	90%	69%
Oregon State University	18:1	$12,664	89%	68%
Pennsylvania Western University	18:1	$10,958	94%	51%
University of Central Arkansas	15:1	$9,778	92%	49%
Utah State University	12:1	$9,228	93%	56%
West Texas A&M University	17:1	$9,101	97%	46%
Florida International University	24:1	$6,565	64%	67%
University of West Georgia	19:1	$5,941	70%	42%
Pennsylvania State University	15:1	$19,835	92%	72%
Washington State University	15:1	$15,701	86%	60%
Western Illinois University	13:1	$14,406	72%	51%
University of Hawaii at Manoa	14:1	$12,186	70%	59%
Eastern Oregon University	15:1	$10,041	98%	65%
North Carolina A&T State University	19:1	$6,733	57%	53%

Ranking The Top Economics Schools: Undergraduate Programs

#20 Regent University

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Bachelor of Science in Business – Economics

Regent University is a private Christian school that was founded in 1977. It offers an excellent online bachelor’s degree in Business with an economics concentration. The curriculum expands on RU’s business degree’s key strengths, And it prepares students for careers in economics. It is taught from a Christian perspective by industry leaders. The 120-credit hour online program may have required courses such as:

• Introduction to Accounting
• Operations Management
• Management Information Systems
• Political Economy
• Microeconomics
• History of Economic Thought
• Entrepreneurship, Marketing Processes, and Economic Growth
• Market Research

See Also: Online Business Degrees

#19 Ottawa University

Ottawa, Kansas

Bachelor of Arts in Business Economics

Ottawa University was established in 1865. It is linked with the Ottawa Nation of Oklahoma and the American Baptist Church. Students at OW can pursue an online bachelor’s degree in Business Economics. The degree will prepare them for working in government or business. This is an ACBSP-accredited program that prepares students for graduate studies in finance, business, economics, or law. Economics majors can choose a concentration in finance, human resources, or leadership and management. And there are plenty of economics electives to choose from to customize your program. Federal financial aid is available. Required economics courses in the program include:

• Money and Banking
• Spatial Economics
• Entrepreneurial Economics
• Investment Finance
• Economics of Managerial Decisions
• Financing and Investing Activities
• Foundations of Finance

Related: Top 10 Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Finance

#18 Colorado Christian University

Lakewood, Colorado

Bachelor of Science in Economics

Colorado Christian is a private college founded in 1914. The school offers an excellent Bachelor of Science in Economics degree. This economics bachelor’s degree serves as a foundation to enter many fields. These include public administration, management, analytics, and more. This program is also excellent preparation for students who want to pursue graduate studies. It is taught from a biblical perspective that emphasizes service to the community. Some of the required courses included in the 120-credit-hour program include:

• Financial Accounting 
• Introduction to Research and Applied Statistics
• Introduction to Applied Econometrics
• Money and Banking 
• Big Data and Quantitative Analysis 
• Economic Development 
• International Political Economy 

#17 Limestone University

Gaffney, South Carolina

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Economics  

Limestone is a private Christian university established in 1845. The school offers an excellent online Business Administration – Economics degree. The program is ACBSP accredited. And it’s one of the best colleges for economics degree students. This online program is asynchronous; so there are no specific class times you need to adhere to. LU has partnerships with Technical Colleges throughout South Carolina to transfer credits. This allows economics majors to shorten the 120 credit hours required. Financial aid is available for this online bachelor’s program. Featured economics courses include:

• Financial Accounting
• Managerial Accounting
• Business Communications
• Ethical Issues in the Workplace
• Business Law I
• World Trade and International Business
• Business Policy

Related: Top 10 Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Communications

#16 University of Massachusetts at Lowell

Lowell, Massachusetts

Bachelor of Liberal Arts in Economics

University of Massachusetts Lowell is a public research university founded in 1894. The school offers an online bachelor’s degree in liberal arts with a concentration in economics. It gives students a thorough grasp of how economic concepts relate to business, production, and the exchange of goods and services. Economics majors explore how changes in business practices and foreign policy can impact the economy. The economics concentration includes required courses such as:

• Statistics for Business and Economics 
• Labor Economics
• Microeconomic Theory 
• Managerial Economics
• Investments: Instruments and Strategies
• Financial Markets and Monetary Policy
• United States Economic History 

#15 University of Arizona

Tucson, Arizona

BBA – Business Economics

The University of Arizona was founded in 1885. The school offers an online bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in Economics. It is offered through the Forbes School of Business and Technology®. The program is accredited by the IACBE. Students gain many business-related skills. These include critical thinking, project management, and leadership. These skills will prepare them for a career in business or a related area of their choice. This is a highly flexible 120-credit program, and students take one asynchronous course at a time. Additionally, they can pursue many economics electives. Rather than semesters, classes at ASU are offered in continuous five and six-week terms. The economics online curriculum includes required courses such as:

• Strategic Management and Business Policy
• International Trade
• Business Cycles & Growth
• Managerial Economics
• Principles of Macroeconomics
• International Business
• Business Communications

#14 Colorado State University

Fort Collins, Colorado

Bachelor of Arts in Economics

Colorado State University is the flagship institution of the CSU system. The school’s economics online degree is a 120-credit program. It prepares students to build technical knowledge and analyze complex problems from many angles. The program aims to align with your interests and your career goals. So students are required to choose a minor. Financial aid is available for this bachelor’s in economics. Transferring credits from previous coursework is also a breeze. Online students can choose from the following minors:

• Agricultural Business
• Anthropology
• Gerontology
• Global and Environmental Sustainability
• Media Studies
• Political Science
• Sociology

Students will learn how the behavior of groups and individuals affects economics around the world. Online students will work with an advisor to choose their courses. And they will select those that will help them meet their educational goals. Some of the online economics courses include:

• Introduction to Statistical Methods
• Economics of Social Issues 
• Gender and the Economy
• Racial Inequality and Discrimination
• Working With Data 
• Issues in Environmental Economics 
• Economics of Public Finance 

#13 Oregon State University

Corvallis, Oregon

Bachelor of Arts in Economics

Bachelor of Science in Economics

Oregon State University is a land-grant research institution founded in 1856. There are two online economics bachelor’s degree programs at OSU. They are offered through the College of Liberal Arts. Students gain analytical and quantitative skills. And they learn what influences human behavior. Classes are created by world-class professors renowned for their research and knowledge. There are four start terms per year, and the program requires 180 credits. Featured courses included in the economics online program are:

• Introduction to microeconomics
• Pre-econometrics
• Public policy analysis
• Advanced macroeconomic theory
• Introduction to macroeconomics
• Introduction to economic research
• Calculus for management and social science

#12 Pennsylvania Western University

California, Pennsylvania

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Business Economics

Pennsylvania Western University was founded in 1852. A business economics degree from PennWest will give you a solid foundation of business fundamentals. The program is accredited by the ACBSP. It combines business studies with several other disciplines, including economics. Graduates have the knowledge to solve problems within public policy and international affairs. The 120 required credit hours can be completed in eight semesters. Specialized coursework for the business economics major includes:

• Micro-and Macro-economic Theory
• Econometrics
• Behavioral Economics
• International Economics
• Labor Economics
• Health Economics
• Public Finance and Other Areas

#11 University of Central Arkansas

Conway, Arkansas

Bachelor of Business Administration in General Business

Founded in 1907, the University of Central Arkansas is one of the state’s oldest colleges. The school offers an excellent online Bachelor of Business Administration in General Business. Students can customize their learning track by choosing an Economics discipline. The online degree program is offered in a fully online format. This allows students to earn an economics degree without sacrificing their current jobs. The 120-credit hour curriculum includes online courses relevant to economics, such as:

• Principles of Macroeconomics
• Business Statistics
• Global Environment of Business
• Principles of Microeconomics
• Government and Policies
• Applied Mathematics for Business
• International Relations

#10 Utah State University

Logan, Utah

Bachelor of Science in Economics

Bachelor of Arts in Economics

Utah State University was founded in 1888 as a land-grant college. The school offers a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics online. The economics programs are offered through the Jon M. Huntsman School of Business. Each degree gives students a solid foundation in economic theory and research experience. This prepares graduates for economic-related careers or graduate school. Both economics programs have five areas of emphasis to choose from:

• Economic Theory
• Quantitative Economic History
• Managerial Economics
• Pre Law Economics
• International Economics and Trade

The 120-credit-hour curriculum is offered in a 100% online format for flexibility. Transferring credits from previous coursework is simple as well. Some of the featured online courses include:

• Introduction to Economic Institutions, History, and Principles
• Foundations of Business: Capitalism, Markets, and Innovation 
• Intermediate Writing: Research Writing in a Persuasive Mode 
• Introduction to Econometrics 
• Fundamentals of Finance

#9 West Texas A&M University

Canyon, Texas

BBA in Law & Economics

West Texas A&M University was established in 1910. The school offers an online BBA in economics. The program gives students a foundation of business knowledge. They study human behavior through a range of disciplines. These include statistics, mathematics, history, and more. Students learn to apply policy analysis based on their economic research. They will also use economic models to analyze complex problems. The Law & Economics specialization includes courses like:

• Accounting Communications 
• Personal Financial Planning 
• Sports Economics and Business 
• Industrial Organization and Regulation 
• Law and Economics 
• Economics of Labor Resources 
• Environmental & Natural Resource Economics 

#8 Florida International University

Miami, Florida

Bachelor of Arts in Economics

Florida International University is a public research university in Miami. FIU Online allows prospective students to pursue an online bachelor’s degree in economics. The Bachelor of Arts in Economics program helps graduates understand economic institutions. They will gain the necessary analytical tools to apply their new knowledge to real-world problems. This degree is suitable for careers in business, multinational corporations, or international agencies. It is also excellent preparation for graduate school. Federal financial aid is available. The program is offered through FIU’s Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs. The 120 credit hour curriculum includes online courses such as:

• Principles of Microeconomics
• Calculus I or Calculus for Business
• Introduction to Statistics I or Statistics for Business and Economics
• Principles of Macroeconomics
• Measurement and Analysis of Econ Activity
• Introduction to Econometrics
• Topics in Theory

#7 University of West Georgia

Carrollton, Georgia

BBA in Economics

Bachelor of Science in Economics

The University of West Georgia is a liberal arts institution founded in 1906. The school offers two online bachelor’s in economics degrees. They include a BBA in Economics and a BS in Economics. Both economics programs are designed for students pursuing careers in government, marketing, or business. The AACSB-accredited programs equip students with strong communication and analytical skills. It gives them a broad understanding of how national and international companies operate. Offered through the Richards College of Business, both online economics degrees are 120-credit hour programs. They meet the same high academic standards of excellence as the on-campus versions. Featured economics-related courses include:

• Foundations of Business and Spreadsheet Analysis
• Macroeconomic Policy
• Statistics for Business
• Principles of Microeconomics
• Legal and Ethical Environment of Business
• Principles of Accounting
• Corporate Finance

University Park, Pennsylvania

Bachelor of Science in Economics

Bachelor of Arts in Economics

Penn State’s World Campus is the school’s online version of Pennsylvania State College. It was one of the first US colleges to offer online degrees. Prospective students who want to pursue an economics education have two options: A Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. The BS in Economics focuses on math theory, analytical skills, and computer programming. The primary focus of this program is statistics and mathematics. The BA in Economics focuses on culture, behavior, and international relations. This program is designed to prepare students for working in global organizations. Students take the same classes and receive the same diploma as students who attend on campus. Some of the economics-related core and elective courses include:

• Introductory Macroeconomic Analysis and Policy
• Statistical Foundations for Econometrics
• Intermediate Microeconomic Analysis
• Labor Economics
• International Economics
• Decision-Making and Strategy in Economics
• Economics of Public Expenditures

#5 Washington State University

Pullman, Washington

Bachelor of Science in Economics

Washington State University was founded in 1890. It is one of the oldest land-grant institutions in the United States. The school offers an online Bachelor of Science in Economic Sciences degree. Students gain high-level skills like advanced data analysis, critical thinking, and communication. These skills can prepare them for high-paying roles in the field of economics. There are three start dates per year, and the online program requires a minimum of 120-semester credits. Students choose from one of four different concentrations. They include Agribusiness, Management, Marketing and Analytics, and Supply Chain Management. Some of the economic core and elective courses include:

• Intermediate Microeconomic Theory with Calculus
• Intermediate Macroeconomic Analysis
• Introductory Econometrics
• Introduction to Financial Accounting
• Money and Banking
• Labor Economics
• Business Finance Economics

#4 Western Illinois University

Macomb, Illinois

Bachelor of Business in Economics

Bachelor of Arts in Economics

Western Illinois University offers two online economics programs. Both are AACSB-accredited bachelor’s degrees. The BB in Economics is best for prospective students who want to work in business, banking, or finance. It also serves as excellent preparation to pursue a master’s in any of those areas. The BA in Economics focuses on critical thinking skills. It is recommended for students who want to pursue a career in government. It is also the preferred degree for graduate study preparation, especially in law school. Both degree programs prepare students for careers in the private sector, non-profits, or government. The 120 credit hour curriculums include featured courses such as:

• Politics of the Global Economy
• Monetary Policy and Applied Macroeconomics
• Managerial Economics and Price Theory
• Economics of Poverty and Discrimination
• Economic Problem Solving
• Game Theory and Economic Behavior
• Business Communications

#3 University of Hawaii at Manoa

Honolulu, Hawaii

Bachelor of Arts in Economics

Founded in 1907, the University of Hawaii at Manoa is the flagship institution of the UH system. The school offers a fully online BA in Economics. Students gain skills in economic literacy, critical thinking, and quantitative reasoning. Economics graduates will understand the economic challenges facing the US, Hawaii, and the Asia-Pacific region. Some of the courses in this program are unique, including The Japanese Economy, The Ocean Economy, and Land and Housing Economics. Other courses may include:

• Games and Economic Behavior
• Trade Policy and Globalization
• Labor Economics
• Environmental Resource Economics
• Economic Forecasting
• Health Economics
• Mathematics for Economics
• International Trade

#2 Eastern Oregon University

La Grande, Oregon

Bachelor of Arts in Economics

Bachelor of Science in Economics

Eastern Oregon University is a land grant institution founded in 1929. The school offers an online BA or BS in Economics. Both degree programs are research-focused. Economics graduates are prepared for careers in upper management, data or policy analysis, and economics. This program is also an excellent pathway to advanced law studies or graduate school. EOU’s generous transfer policy allows students to apply up to 135 credits from previous college coursework. For those students interested in an accelerated online economics program, this may be a terrific option. Required courses include:

• Microeconomics
• A Survey Calculus Part I
• B Survey Calculus Part II
• Macroeconomics
• Intermediate Microeconomics
• Intermediate Macroeconomics
• History of Economic Thought

#1 North Carolina A&T State University

Greensboro, North Carolina

Bachelor of Science in Economics

The cheapest online economics degree on our list is offered through North Carolina A&T State University. North Carolina A&T is the largest historically black college in the US. The BS in Economics program gives students a solid understanding of data analysis. They also get critical and analytical thinking skills. A unique aspect of this program is that students can customize it by using up to ten free electives. And they can choose a concentration to help them meet their academic and career goals. This economics degree prepares individuals for a wide range of careers. It also provides a firm foundation for those who are seeking admission to law or graduate school. Specializations focus on careers such as:

• Business Reporter
• Small Business Owner/Entrepreneur
• Economic Consultant
• Data Analyst
• Market Researcher
• International or Government Policy Analyst
• Banking or Financial Officer

The 120 credit hour curriculum includes economic-related courses such as:

• Rural Communities and Economic Development
• Principles of Economics (Micro)
• Quantitative Analysis
• History of Economic Thought
• Economics and Society
• Labor Relations
• International Trade
• Economic, Political, and Social Aspects of the Black Experience

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Student-to-faculty ratio: 19 to 1
• Bachelor’s in Economics Tuition: $6,733
• Applicants Admitted: 57%
• Graduation Rate: 53%

See Also: 50 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Bachelors Degrees

What Can You Do With an Economics Degree? 

No matter what industry you choose to work in, an online economics bachelor’s degree can be beneficial. Economics programs teach many marketable skills. These include problem-solving, communication, and analytical skills. All of these are in high demand across many industries. Thus, careers for economics majors are highly diverse.

A bachelor’s degree in economics can boost your chances of employment in the field. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for an economist is $105,630 per year. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also suggests that the field will grow six percent over the next decade. Here are some of the most common roles economists pursue. We have also included the median annual pay according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

Market Research Analysts

Median Salary: $63,920 per year

Market research analysts use their knowledge of business and industry trends. They analyze how marketable services or products might be under different economic conditions. They create studies, gather information, and analyze data. Market Research Analysts also present this information to their clients in an easy-to-understand way.

Compensation and Benefits Managers

Median Salary: $127,530 per year

Compensation and benefits managers are good with numbers and analytics. They study trends in the labor market to determine supply and demand. They may help establish a competitive pay and benefits structure for a company’s employees. They also work closely with human resources.

Credit Analysts

Median Salary: $88,030 per year

Credit analysts are a type of financial analyst who assesses prospective borrowers to determine the risks of loaning them funds. They may work with commercial or personal accounts. They summarize the findings and suggest terms and interest rates relating to the risk profiles of the potential clients.

Lawyers

Median Salary: $127,990 per year

Many students get an economics degree before going on to law school. Certain areas of law involve microeconomic and macroeconomic analysis. Lawyers may be involved in tax law, corporate law, antitrust law, and other areas of litigation. These all need analytical skills and critical thinking.

Business Reporters

Median Salary: $48,370 per year

Economics majors who also enjoy writing often pursue careers as economics or business reporters. They have a natural curiosity and the ability to write about business issues in a language that the average person can understand. This helps in reporting on economic and industry developments and financial markets.

Policy Analysts

Median Salary: $122,510 per year

A policy analyst analyzes issues that impact individuals, businesses, and the public. They often recommend legislative or governmental interventions to resolve problems. They understand many current issues and how complex problems can be solved with affordable solutions.

You may also like: What Are Some Other Career Paths for a Degree in Economics?

This concludes our article on the best online economics programs for undergraduate students.

OCP Staff 2023