6 answers
Andrew
Student
Aberdeen, South Dakota
18
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Is a BS, BA or BBA in economics better ?
I'm wondering if a BS, BA, or BBA is better for a economics major. I know there are different graduation requirements, but will it help in getting a job?
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6 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Andrew,
When it comes to economics, the choice between a Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Arts (BA), or Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree should be guided by your career ambitions and personal interests. Each degree provides a unique set of skills and focuses, making them more suitable for specific roles within the economics sector.
A Bachelor of Science (BS) in Economics leans towards a quantitative and analytical approach. This program often includes advanced mathematics, statistics, econometrics, and data analysis courses. If you're drawn towards roles that need strong quantitative skills like economic research, data analysis, or financial analysis, a BS in Economics could be the right fit for you.
On the other hand, a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics offers a more diverse curriculum. It combines economics courses with liberal arts subjects such as social sciences, humanities, and languages. This degree could be perfect for you if you're interested in policy analysis, public sector roles, or planning to pursue further studies in economics or related fields.
A Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a concentration in Economics merges business courses with specialized economics training. This program is great for those interested in using economic principles in business decision-making, corporate finance, or managerial roles.
Remember, employers often prioritize the skills and knowledge you've acquired during your studies over the specific type of degree you hold. Therefore, it's crucial to choose a degree that matches your career goals and plays to your strengths. Additionally, networking, internships, relevant work experience, and extracurricular activities can significantly boost your job prospects, regardless of your chosen degree.
In summary, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to which degree is best for an economics major. It boils down to your personal goals and preferences. Evaluate the curriculum, coursework, and skill set each degree offers to make a decision that aligns with your career goals.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Harvard University Department of Economics
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
American Economic Association
Stay blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
When it comes to economics, the choice between a Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Arts (BA), or Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree should be guided by your career ambitions and personal interests. Each degree provides a unique set of skills and focuses, making them more suitable for specific roles within the economics sector.
A Bachelor of Science (BS) in Economics leans towards a quantitative and analytical approach. This program often includes advanced mathematics, statistics, econometrics, and data analysis courses. If you're drawn towards roles that need strong quantitative skills like economic research, data analysis, or financial analysis, a BS in Economics could be the right fit for you.
On the other hand, a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics offers a more diverse curriculum. It combines economics courses with liberal arts subjects such as social sciences, humanities, and languages. This degree could be perfect for you if you're interested in policy analysis, public sector roles, or planning to pursue further studies in economics or related fields.
A Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a concentration in Economics merges business courses with specialized economics training. This program is great for those interested in using economic principles in business decision-making, corporate finance, or managerial roles.
Remember, employers often prioritize the skills and knowledge you've acquired during your studies over the specific type of degree you hold. Therefore, it's crucial to choose a degree that matches your career goals and plays to your strengths. Additionally, networking, internships, relevant work experience, and extracurricular activities can significantly boost your job prospects, regardless of your chosen degree.
In summary, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to which degree is best for an economics major. It boils down to your personal goals and preferences. Evaluate the curriculum, coursework, and skill set each degree offers to make a decision that aligns with your career goals.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Harvard University Department of Economics
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
American Economic Association
Stay blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
Rylee Schwee
Tax consulting
9
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Rylee’s Answer
Hey there, Andrew! I hold a BS degree in economics and from my experience, the only real difference between a BA and BS in my school was just a few more math classes. Possessing math skills can be a great asset, particularly in today's tech-focused world. However, if history and the qualitative side of economics is your passion, a BA might just be the perfect fit for you!
Duncan Phin
Culture and Engagement Data Manager
19
Answers
Newcastle upon Tyne, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Duncan’s Answer
Hi Andrew
That is a thought-provoking question. Some considerations when deciding between a Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Arts (BA), or Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in economics depend on your specific career goals and interests:
Are you interested in Theory or Application:
BS in Economics: Often emphasizes a more theoretical and mathematical approach, focusing on economic models, econometrics, and data analysis. It's suitable if you're interested in research, academia, or pursuing a graduate degree in economics.
BA in Economics: May offer a more balanced approach, including theoretical foundations alongside historical, social, and political contexts of economic issues. It could be a good choice if you're interested in public policy, international development, or broad-based economic analysis.
BBA in Economics: Leans towards the application of economic principles in business settings. You'll likely encounter courses in finance, accounting, and marketing alongside core economic principles. This option caters well to careers in business analysis, consulting, or financial institutions.
Coursework and Curriculum:
BS in Economics: Expect a higher concentration of math-intensive courses like calculus, statistics, and econometrics, along with core economics subjects like microeconomics and macroeconomics.
BA in Economics: May have a slightly lesser emphasis on math compared to a BS, potentially offering more flexibility in elective courses related to history, political science, or other social sciences.
BBA in Economics: While core economics courses will be present, expect a significant portion of the curriculum dedicated to business-related subjects like accounting, finance, and marketing.
Career Paths:
BS in Economics: Prepares you for research positions, academia, or pursuing advanced degrees in economics. It can also lead to careers in economic consulting, government agencies, or international organizations.
BA in Economics: Opens doors to careers in various fields, including public policy, international development, research (potentially in combination with other social sciences), and economic analysis in diverse sectors.
BBA in Economics: Equips you for business-oriented roles like business analyst, financial analyst, consultant, or positions in financial institutions.
Remember, these are general comparisons, and specific program details may vary depending on the university. It's crucial to research individual programs and consider factors like course offerings, faculty expertise, and career services resources to make an informed decision.
That is a thought-provoking question. Some considerations when deciding between a Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Arts (BA), or Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in economics depend on your specific career goals and interests:
Are you interested in Theory or Application:
BS in Economics: Often emphasizes a more theoretical and mathematical approach, focusing on economic models, econometrics, and data analysis. It's suitable if you're interested in research, academia, or pursuing a graduate degree in economics.
BA in Economics: May offer a more balanced approach, including theoretical foundations alongside historical, social, and political contexts of economic issues. It could be a good choice if you're interested in public policy, international development, or broad-based economic analysis.
BBA in Economics: Leans towards the application of economic principles in business settings. You'll likely encounter courses in finance, accounting, and marketing alongside core economic principles. This option caters well to careers in business analysis, consulting, or financial institutions.
Coursework and Curriculum:
BS in Economics: Expect a higher concentration of math-intensive courses like calculus, statistics, and econometrics, along with core economics subjects like microeconomics and macroeconomics.
BA in Economics: May have a slightly lesser emphasis on math compared to a BS, potentially offering more flexibility in elective courses related to history, political science, or other social sciences.
BBA in Economics: While core economics courses will be present, expect a significant portion of the curriculum dedicated to business-related subjects like accounting, finance, and marketing.
Career Paths:
BS in Economics: Prepares you for research positions, academia, or pursuing advanced degrees in economics. It can also lead to careers in economic consulting, government agencies, or international organizations.
BA in Economics: Opens doors to careers in various fields, including public policy, international development, research (potentially in combination with other social sciences), and economic analysis in diverse sectors.
BBA in Economics: Equips you for business-oriented roles like business analyst, financial analyst, consultant, or positions in financial institutions.
Remember, these are general comparisons, and specific program details may vary depending on the university. It's crucial to research individual programs and consider factors like course offerings, faculty expertise, and career services resources to make an informed decision.
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
472
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Hi Andrew,
The choice between a Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Arts (BA), or Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Economics can depend on your career goals and personal preferences. Here's a breakdown of each option:
1. **Bachelor of Science (BS) in Economics**: This degree typically has a stronger focus on quantitative skills, including mathematics, statistics, and econometrics. It may be suitable if you're interested in pursuing careers that require strong analytical abilities, such as economic research, data analysis, or financial analysis.
2. **Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics**: A BA in Economics often provides a more broad-based education, including a balance of coursework in economics along with liberal arts subjects like history, political science, or philosophy. This degree may be suitable if you're interested in exploring the social and political aspects of economics or if you plan to pursue graduate studies in related fields like law or public policy.
3. **Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a concentration in Economics**: A BBA with a concentration in Economics combines coursework in economics with business administration topics like finance, management, and marketing. This degree may be suitable if you're interested in careers that involve both economic analysis and business decision-making, such as consulting, corporate finance, or management roles.
In terms of getting a job, the specific degree (BS, BA, or BBA) may not matter as much as the skills and experiences you develop during your studies. Employers often value candidates who have a strong foundation in economic theory, quantitative analysis, critical thinking, and communication. Additionally, internships, research projects, and extracurricular activities can enhance your resume and demonstrate your practical skills and interests to potential employers.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your career goals, academic interests, and preferred learning style. It may be helpful to research the curriculum requirements for each degree program, speak with academic advisors or faculty members, and consider your long-term aspirations when making your decision.
The choice between a Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Arts (BA), or Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Economics can depend on your career goals and personal preferences. Here's a breakdown of each option:
1. **Bachelor of Science (BS) in Economics**: This degree typically has a stronger focus on quantitative skills, including mathematics, statistics, and econometrics. It may be suitable if you're interested in pursuing careers that require strong analytical abilities, such as economic research, data analysis, or financial analysis.
2. **Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics**: A BA in Economics often provides a more broad-based education, including a balance of coursework in economics along with liberal arts subjects like history, political science, or philosophy. This degree may be suitable if you're interested in exploring the social and political aspects of economics or if you plan to pursue graduate studies in related fields like law or public policy.
3. **Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a concentration in Economics**: A BBA with a concentration in Economics combines coursework in economics with business administration topics like finance, management, and marketing. This degree may be suitable if you're interested in careers that involve both economic analysis and business decision-making, such as consulting, corporate finance, or management roles.
In terms of getting a job, the specific degree (BS, BA, or BBA) may not matter as much as the skills and experiences you develop during your studies. Employers often value candidates who have a strong foundation in economic theory, quantitative analysis, critical thinking, and communication. Additionally, internships, research projects, and extracurricular activities can enhance your resume and demonstrate your practical skills and interests to potential employers.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your career goals, academic interests, and preferred learning style. It may be helpful to research the curriculum requirements for each degree program, speak with academic advisors or faculty members, and consider your long-term aspirations when making your decision.
Michael Mattera, P.E., MBA
Project Engineer
6
Answers
Ponca City, Oklahoma
Updated
Michael’s Answer
BS is always a better choice. As far as the career path, I would look up companies that hire economist. Reach out to the HR department or someone that works at the company and ask them for the opportunity to be introduced to an economist and what they do on a daily basis. A university is an okay place to look as well.
As far as getting "ready" for that type of career, in the beginning you'll be doing the grunt work, so learn how to use Microsoft Excel extremely well. Then learn a computing program the economist use. That's where you focus your energy today. Focus on this and you'll be ahead of all of the others when its time.
mm
As far as getting "ready" for that type of career, in the beginning you'll be doing the grunt work, so learn how to use Microsoft Excel extremely well. Then learn a computing program the economist use. That's where you focus your energy today. Focus on this and you'll be ahead of all of the others when its time.
mm
Yumi Nguyen
7
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Yumi’s Answer
Choosing between a Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Arts (BA), or Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Economics depends on your career goals, interests, and the specific curriculum offered by each program. Here's how each can impact your job prospects:
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Economics
Focus: More quantitative and analytical, with a strong emphasis on mathematics, statistics, and economic modeling.
Prospective Jobs: Positions in data analysis, financial analysis, economic research, and other fields that require strong quantitative skills.
Ideal For: Those looking to pursue graduate studies in economics or careers in economics research, finance, or data science.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics
Focus: Broader liberal arts education with an emphasis on qualitative analysis, economic theory, and policy.
Prospective Jobs: Roles in government, public policy, consultancy, and business where a strong understanding of economic principles is needed but heavy quantitative skills are less emphasized.
Ideal For: Students interested in a well-rounded education with flexibility to take courses in related fields like political science, sociology, or international relations.
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Economics
Focus: Combines economic theory with business principles, including management, marketing, and finance.
Prospective Jobs: Careers in business strategy, management, marketing, finance, and roles that require an understanding of economic principles within a business context.
Ideal For: Those aiming for careers in business environments or entrepreneurial ventures where economic analysis is applied to business decision-making.
Considerations:
Curriculum and Electives: Look into the specific courses required and offered by each degree. Some programs might offer more flexibility or specialized courses that align with your career interests.
Skill Development: Consider which program best suits the skills you want to develop. A BS might offer more technical and analytical skills, while a BA or BBA might provide broader perspectives on economics and its applications.
Graduate Studies: If you're considering advanced degrees, a BS might prepare you better for the quantitative rigor of graduate economics programs, though a BA with sufficient quantitative coursework can also be sufficient.
Career Goals: Reflect on your desired career path. Certain industries or roles may prefer the technical skills from a BS, while others may value the broader educational background of a BA or the business acumen of a BBA.
In terms of getting a job, all three degrees can open doors to various career opportunities. Employers often value the skills and knowledge you've acquired more than the specific type of degree. It's also essential to gain relevant experience through internships, part-time jobs, or extracurricular activities related to your field of interest. This experience, combined with networking, will play a crucial role in your job search, regardless of whether you have a BS, BA, or BBA in Economics.
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Economics
Focus: More quantitative and analytical, with a strong emphasis on mathematics, statistics, and economic modeling.
Prospective Jobs: Positions in data analysis, financial analysis, economic research, and other fields that require strong quantitative skills.
Ideal For: Those looking to pursue graduate studies in economics or careers in economics research, finance, or data science.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics
Focus: Broader liberal arts education with an emphasis on qualitative analysis, economic theory, and policy.
Prospective Jobs: Roles in government, public policy, consultancy, and business where a strong understanding of economic principles is needed but heavy quantitative skills are less emphasized.
Ideal For: Students interested in a well-rounded education with flexibility to take courses in related fields like political science, sociology, or international relations.
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Economics
Focus: Combines economic theory with business principles, including management, marketing, and finance.
Prospective Jobs: Careers in business strategy, management, marketing, finance, and roles that require an understanding of economic principles within a business context.
Ideal For: Those aiming for careers in business environments or entrepreneurial ventures where economic analysis is applied to business decision-making.
Considerations:
Curriculum and Electives: Look into the specific courses required and offered by each degree. Some programs might offer more flexibility or specialized courses that align with your career interests.
Skill Development: Consider which program best suits the skills you want to develop. A BS might offer more technical and analytical skills, while a BA or BBA might provide broader perspectives on economics and its applications.
Graduate Studies: If you're considering advanced degrees, a BS might prepare you better for the quantitative rigor of graduate economics programs, though a BA with sufficient quantitative coursework can also be sufficient.
Career Goals: Reflect on your desired career path. Certain industries or roles may prefer the technical skills from a BS, while others may value the broader educational background of a BA or the business acumen of a BBA.
In terms of getting a job, all three degrees can open doors to various career opportunities. Employers often value the skills and knowledge you've acquired more than the specific type of degree. It's also essential to gain relevant experience through internships, part-time jobs, or extracurricular activities related to your field of interest. This experience, combined with networking, will play a crucial role in your job search, regardless of whether you have a BS, BA, or BBA in Economics.