What is Economics?
Embarking on a journey to become an economist in Missouri starts with a solid educational foundation. As you explore your career aspirations, an economics degree can be a critical step in attaining the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in this field. Missouri economics programs offer comprehensive curricula designed to prepare you for an ever-evolving landscape where analysis and foresight are paramount. Whether you're just starting out or looking to enhance your expertise, earning an economics degree positions you to contribute significantly to both local and global economic discourse.
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Top Ranked Campus & Online Economics Programs in Missouri
Washington University in St. Louis
Score: 88.37
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $62,982
- Out-of-State:$62,982
- Net Price: $23,432
- Acceptance Rate: 12%
- Retention Rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 94%
- Total Enrollment: 17,012
- Undergrad Students: 8,132
- Graduate Students: 8,880
- Grads Salary: $83,000
- Student-to-faculty: 7:1
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Score: 79.26
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,278
- Out-of-State:$31,678
- Net Price: $14,023
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 7,080
- Undergrad Students: 5,498
- Graduate Students: 1,582
- Grads Salary: $86,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Truman State University
Score: 78.15
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,470
- Out-of-State:$17,870
- Net Price: $13,993
- Acceptance Rate: 45%
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 71%
- Total Enrollment: 3,960
- Undergrad Students: 3,622
- Graduate Students: 338
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
William Jewell College
Score: 76.48
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $19,890
- Out-of-State:$19,890
- Net Price: $20,108
- Acceptance Rate: 41%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 853
- Undergrad Students: 824
- Graduate Students: 29
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Webster University
Score: 74.59
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $30,730
- Out-of-State:$30,730
- Net Price: $23,069
- Acceptance Rate: 55%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 59%
- Total Enrollment: 6,396
- Undergrad Students: 2,197
- Graduate Students: 4,199
- Grads Salary: $86,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Score: 73.48
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,988
- Out-of-State:$28,788
- Net Price: $14,739
- Acceptance Rate: 69%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Total Enrollment: 15,703
- Undergrad Students: 10,179
- Graduate Students: 5,524
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
University of Missouri-Columbia
Score: 72.61
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,130
- Out-of-State:$34,338
- Net Price: $19,889
- Acceptance Rate: 79%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
- Total Enrollment: 31,304
- Undergrad Students: 23,745
- Graduate Students: 7,559
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
University of Missouri-St. Louis
Score: 72.26
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,440
- Out-of-State:$33,432
- Net Price: $13,211
- Acceptance Rate: 51%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
- Total Enrollment: 15,181
- Undergrad Students: 12,415
- Graduate Students: 2,766
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Rockhurst University
Score: 71.61
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $43,420
- Out-of-State:$43,420
- Net Price: $22,994
- Acceptance Rate: 66%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 77%
- Total Enrollment: 3,405
- Undergrad Students: 2,545
- Graduate Students: 860
- Grads Salary: $72,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Saint Louis University
Score: 70.57
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $53,244
- Out-of-State:$53,244
- Net Price: $29,651
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Retention Rate: 87%
- Graduation Rate: 81%
- Total Enrollment: 15,755
- Undergrad Students: 10,662
- Graduate Students: 5,093
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
University of Central Missouri
Score: 69.18
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,739
- Out-of-State:$18,064
- Net Price: $15,117
- Acceptance Rate: 71%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 53%
- Total Enrollment: 11,637
- Undergrad Students: 7,345
- Graduate Students: 4,292
- Grads Salary: $74,000
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Northwest Missouri State University
Score: 69.12
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,181
- Out-of-State:$16,623
- Net Price: $14,197
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 54%
- Total Enrollment: 8,505
- Undergrad Students: 5,308
- Graduate Students: 3,197
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Lindenwood University
Score: 66.62
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $21,100
- Out-of-State:$21,100
- Net Price: $18,016
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 54%
- Total Enrollment: 7,000
- Undergrad Students: 4,808
- Graduate Students: 2,192
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Southeast Missouri State University
Score: 66.51
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,496
- Out-of-State:$9,496
- Net Price: $14,519
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 56%
- Total Enrollment: 9,927
- Undergrad Students: 8,454
- Graduate Students: 1,473
- Grads Salary: $68,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Missouri State University
Score: 64.46
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,024
- Out-of-State:$17,928
- Net Price: $17,677
- Acceptance Rate: 93%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 58%
- Total Enrollment: 22,535
- Undergrad Students: 18,419
- Graduate Students: 4,116
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Economics Field in Missouri
As you consider embarking on a journey in the field of economics, it’s important to know where you plan to take your degree and career. The economy of Missouri is robust and multifaceted, with vibrant sectors that span from the bustling city lines to the sprawling rural areas. With a rich heritage in manufacturing, the state also has thriving agriculture, healthcare, and finance sectors. These sectors are the bedrock of the Missouri economics landscape and have a significant impact on the national economy, as well.
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Understanding the Scope of Economics
The economics field in Missouri can encompass a wide array of activities that are pivotal to the state's financial health. Economists here delve into data, discern patterns, and offer insights that are foundational to strategic business decisions and policy-making. In Missouri, the stronghold of traditional industries like agriculture melds with technological innovations, and healthcare advances create a dynamic environment. As the heartbeat of the economy of Missouri, economists analyze trends, predict shifts, and guide the state toward prosperity.
Here are just some of the tasks that economists might perform in the state:
- Analyzing manufacturing growth and its ramifications on global competitiveness
- Assessing agricultural output and the economics of sustainable practices
- Evaluating healthcare reforms and the impact on state expenditures
- Devising strategies for fiscal stability within the finance sector
Your keen understanding of these sectors as an economist will enable you to contribute to the narrative of Missouri's economic development. As sectors evolve, the economy of Missouri requires adept individuals who can navigate the complex nature of the field and step in to influence economic strategies at a local and national level.
Online Educational Pathways for an Economics Degree in Missouri
Embarking on a journey toward an economics degree in Missouri opens many doors for aspiring economists. Missouri's educational institutions cater to diverse learners, offering various traditional and online programs that meet the rigorous economics degree requirements. From foundational courses at the associate level to in-depth research and analysis at the doctoral level, each pathway is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills you'll need to excel in the field. Let's explore the educational routes that lead to becoming a proficient economist.
Online Associate (AS)
Completing an associate degree in economics provides you with an introduction to the field; this is an undergraduate degree laying the groundwork for further studies. Missouri economics programs at this level typically cover basic principles of micro and macroeconomics, fundamental analytical skills, and an understanding of economic policy. Typically a two-year program, an associate degree can be an excellent starting point for those seeking entry-level positions or aiming to transfer credits to a bachelor's program.
UniversityHQ National Rankings - Top 25 Online Associate in EconomicsOnline Bachelors (BS)
A bachelor’s degree in economics is the cornerstone of a career in the field, combining comprehensive theoretical knowledge with applied skills. Core coursework often includes advanced economic theory, econometrics, statistics, and a range of electives allowing for specialization. Graduates leave prepared for diverse professional roles or further academic pursuits. The best economics schools in Missouri emphasize critical thinking and quantitative analysis, preparing you to tackle real-world economic issues. It’s good to know that, though this degree takes four years – double the length of an associate degree, this is the commonly required degree to find a starting role in economics.
UniversityHQ National Rankings - Top 25 Online Bachelors in EconomicsOnline Masters (MS)
Delving deeper, a master’s degree in economics from Missouri economics programs sharpens your analytical capabilities and understanding of complex economic models. These advanced degree programs generally take two years to complete and addresses economic research methods, advanced econometrics, and specialized fields like developmental economics or international trade. This is the level at which you could also specialize in various academic disciplines focused on economics majors, such as labor economics and other economics electives. A master's degree significantly enhances your employment prospects and is often required for senior analytical roles or consultancy positions.
UniversityHQ National Rankings - Top 25 Online Masters in EconomicsOnline Doctorate (PhD)
The most advanced academic route is a PhD in economics. Many of these programs are offered nearly fully online because institutions know they are attended by busy professionals. Aspiring economists looking to contribute to the field through research, academia, or high-level policymaking will find an online degree invaluable because of the flexibility it encompasses. These degrees require several years of study, original research, and a dissertation. Graduates from the best economics schools in Missouri with a PhD often become thought leaders contributing to influential economic strategies and policies.
Read Our Financial Aid And FAFSA Guide Get Our Resources And Scholarships Guide For Business ManagementOnline Certifications
Certifications in this or related fields can bolster your credentials alongside or after your degree. These can include data analysis, financial modeling, and economic forecasting, among others. Validating your expertise through certification helps you to stand out in the Missouri economics job market and can lead to career advancement.
Degree Level | Duration | Focus | Career Outcomes |
---|---|---|---|
Associate Degree | 2 years | Introduction to Economics | Entry-level positions, Prep for Bachelor's |
Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years | Comprehensive Economic Theory and Applied Skills | Analyst, Consultant, Private Sector Roles |
Master’s Degree | 2 years | Advanced Analysis and Specialization | Senior Analyst, Economic Advisor, Policy Maker |
PhD in Economics | 4+ years | Research and Dissertation | Academia, High-level Consulting, Government |
The Economy in Missouri
Embarking on a career after obtaining an economics degree offers a panorama of opportunities in the vibrant work force of Missouri. Your degree serves as a versatile tool, empowering you to navigate and thrive in various sectors. Below, you'll discover a roadmap of career options that your academic pursuits in economics can unlock, placing you at the nexus of business and governance, and potentially leading you toward advanced graduate school opportunities in economics.
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Business Careers Aided by an Economics Degree
With a business career tethered to an economics degree, you are well-positioned to contribute significantly to Missouri's private sector. Your expertise in economic principles equips you to excel in roles such as financial analyst, economic consultant, and business strategist. These positions demand a keen understanding of market trends and the ability to apply economic theories to real-world business challenges. A deep dive into the world of finance, marketing, and strategic planning awaits, promising a mosaic of rewarding career paths.
Roles in Public Administration and Government
A journey into public administration and government beckons those who aspire to impact policy and public welfare directly. In these realms, your economics major can become a critical asset in roles ranging from urban planning to resource management. In these roles, you’ll have the unique opportunity to shape policies and reforms, analyze legislative proposals, and potentially drive sustainable economic growth on a state-wide level.
Economics Degree Requirements and Skills Acquired
Earning an economics degree involves meeting specific educational prerequisites. Not only will you delve into subjects like math and statistics, but you will also navigate through the complexities of microeconomics and macroeconomics, not to mention the analytical precision required in econometrics. These multifaceted programs are designed to provide you with a robust learning experience, ensuring that the economics degree achievements you have gained are comprehensive and relevant to real-world scenarios.
Upon enrollment in an economics programs, you will discover that the cornerstone of your education lies within a well-structured curriculum, which weaves together theoretical knowledge with practical applications. The intent is not solely to prepare you academically but also to equip you with a suite of valuable skills.
These competencies include incisive critical thinking, sophisticated data analysis, comprehensive problem-solving abilities, and the skill for clear and effective communication.
- Mathematical Competence: A strong grasp of mathematics is crucial.
- Statistical Analysis: Understanding and applying statistical data is a key component.
- Economic Theory: A thorough comprehension of both microeconomics and macroeconomics anchors your knowledge.
- Econometric Skills: The ability to model economic scenarios is pivotal to your success in the field.
- Problem-Solving: Tackling complex economic issues with innovative solutions.
- Communication: Articulating complex economic concepts in a clear and persuasive manner.
As you navigate the intricate pathways of your online economics studies, each course is purposefully aligned with the economics degree requirements, ushering you towards not just an academic capstone but also towards a range of career opportunities where the skills acquired in economics programs are in high demand. By the end of your program, you'll have the confidence to apply your skills across numerous industries, leveraging the versatility of your economics degree to catalyze change and drive progress.
Affordable Economics Degrees in Missouri
If you're considering earning an economics degree but are concerned about the cost, you should know that obtaining an affordable economics degree in Missouri is a realistic goal. Missouri's educational institutions offer a myriad of economics programs that are not only cost-effective but also comprehensive in their curriculum. Furthermore, the rise of online economics programs has contributed immensely to making economics education more accessible and flexible to meet your needs.
Economic courses at these institutions range from foundational principles to advanced theoretical applications. You'll find that scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities can significantly lower the financial barrier to higher education. Before making a decision, it's wise to explore the various options Missouri has to offer.
Here's a closer look at some of the key features you should consider:
- Variety of scholarships and financial aid packages available
- Competitive tuition rates across state schools and community colleges
- Flexibility of online programs catering to working professionals
For individuals juggling work, family, or other commitments, the availability of economics programs and courses online provides an excellent opportunity to further your education on your own terms.
When selecting a program, consider the following aspects to ensure it aligns with your educational and career goals:
- Accreditation of the institution and the economics program
- Curriculum relevance to your career aspirations
- Costs and potential ROI (Return on Investment)
- Support services for online students
Academic institutions in Missouri each offer their own blend of pricing, delivery methods, and financial support, allowing you to tailor your educational journey around your personal circumstances. Whether you're looking for an expansive degree program or select online economics courses to upskill, there's an option in Missouri that will meet your needs without breaking the bank.
Potential Career Options and Salaries for Economics Graduates
As you approach the culmination of your economics education, the horizon is full of prospects. The next step is translating that hard-earned knowledge into a rewarding profession. Navigating the job market can seem daunting but, armed with your economics degree, a variety of potential careers are at your fingertips, each offering a unique set of challenges and benefits. From crunching numbers to shaping future business trends, your potential is immense. Let’s delve into some specific roles that may await you in the Show-Me State.
Supply Chain Analyst
Job Description: In the intricate network of goods and services that crisscross Missouri and beyond, a supply chain analyst stands as a pivotal player, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Your analytical prowess will be at the forefront as you monitor supply chains and work on improving their performance. A background in economics primes you to forecast demand, evaluate suppliers, and manage inventory levels effectively.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree, Growth Potential 18% (Much faster than average)
- Oversee product acquisition
- Direct the allocation of materials, supplies, and products
- Forecast and direct the alignment of a product’s demand and supply flows
- Monitor and manage product risk
Median Salary: $77,520
Learn moreMarket Research Analyst
Job Description: Your knack for identifying and interpreting economic trends will find a welcome home in the role of a market research analyst. Here, you will apply quantitative methods and models to understand consumer behavior, market conditions, and product potentials. This position is critical for businesses looking to stay ahead of the curve and innovate within their markets.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree, Growth Potential 13% (Much faster than average)
- Research conditions in local, regional, national, or online markets
- Monitor and forecast marketing and sales trends
- Measure the effectiveness of marketing programs and strategies
- Devise and evaluate methods for collecting data, such as surveys, questionnaires, and opinion polls
Median Salary: $83,190
Learn moreRisk Manager
Job Description: Risk managers are the sentinels in the world of finance and business, guarding against potential losses and strategic pitfalls. With an economics degree, you are well-equipped to forecast and evaluate financial risks and devise the policies to minimize or manage them. This role not only requires an understanding of market trends but also regulations and compliance standards.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's Degree, 5 years or more work experience
- Analyze and measure exposure to credit and market risk threatening the assets, earning capacity, or economic state of an organization
- Analyze new legislation to determine impact on risk exposure.
- Conduct statistical analyses to quantify risk, using statistical analysis software or econometric models
- Confer with traders to identify and communicate risks associated with specific trading strategies or positions
Median Salary: $118,950
Postsecondary Mathematics Teacher
Job Description: If imparting knowledge is your calling, becoming a postsecondary mathematics teacher could be your path. You could teach the next generation of economists, statisticians, and analysts at Missouri's educational institutions. This role enables you to continue engaging with economic theories while nurturing your students' analytical and problem-solving skills. Salaries may vary based on your institutional affiliation and experience, but the rewards of shaping minds are invaluable benefits in their own right.
Requirements:
- PhD or other doctorate required
- Teach courses pertaining to mathematical concepts, statistics, and actuarial science and to the application of original and standardized mathematical techniques in solving specific problems and situations
- Evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers
- Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as linear algebra, differential equations, and discrete mathematics
- Maintain student attendance records, grades, and other required records
Median Salary: $95,320
In every scenario, a degree in economics from Missouri equips you to step confidently into the professional world with valuable insight and a host of attractive career options. As you embark on this professional journey, remember that the skills and knowledge you've acquired prepare you not just to succeed but also to innovate and lead in whatever career you choose.
Check out additional economics career paths and salariesFrequently Asked Questions
How can I become an economist in Missouri?
To become an economist in Missouri, you need to pursue a relevant degree in economics. There are various educational pathways available including options at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees available. You can also enhance your skills and employability by obtaining certifications in the field.
What is the scope of the economics field in Missouri?
Missouri has a diverse economy with key industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and finance. Economists can play vital roles in analyzing economic trends, making informed business decisions, and shaping public policies.
What are the core coursework and degree requirements for an economics program in Missouri?
Core coursework for an economics program in Missouri includes math, statistics, microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. The degree requirements vary depending on the level of education you are pursuing. Throughout your studies, you will acquire valuable skills such as critical thinking, data analysis, problem-solving, and effective communication.
Are there affordable options for obtaining an economics degree in Missouri?
Yes, there are colleges and universities in Missouri that offer competitive tuition rates and financial aid opportunities for economics programs. Additionally, you may find online economics programs and individual economics courses that provide flexibility and convenience for working professionals or those with other commitments.
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