What is Economics?


Pursuing an economics degree in North Carolina positions you in a unique environment where education meets a dynamic state economy. Colleges and universities in North Carolina offer comprehensive programs in economics, including a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a more quantitatively rigorous Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. Each path equips you with a foundational understanding of economic principles, application of quantitative methods, and the skills to conduct economic research.

In North Carolina, an economics degree not only paves the way for diverse career options, but it also immerses you in a state known for its varied economic sectors from technology to agriculture. The education you receive aligns with the realities and opportunities presented by the state's economy. Between a traditional campus experiences and the convenience of online courses, you're afforded the flexibility to tailor your educational journey to your personal schedule and learning preferences.

Featured Online Programs

Top Ranked Campus & Online Economics Programs in North Carolina


1

Duke University

Score: 93.03

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $65,805
    • Out-of-State:$65,805
  • Net Price: $23,694
  • Acceptance Rate: 6%
  • Retention Rate: 97%
  • Graduation Rate: 97%
  • Total Enrollment: 18,023
  • Undergrad Students: 6,640
  • Graduate Students: 11,383
  • Grads Salary: $95,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 6:1
  • Duke University
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2
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,989
    • Out-of-State:$39,330
  • Net Price: $10,614
  • Acceptance Rate: 17%
  • Retention Rate: 96%
  • Graduation Rate: 91%
  • Total Enrollment: 31,705
  • Undergrad Students: 20,029
  • Graduate Students: 11,676
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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3
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,895
    • Out-of-State:$31,767
  • Net Price: $14,852
  • Acceptance Rate: 47%
  • Retention Rate: 94%
  • Graduation Rate: 85%
  • Total Enrollment: 36,700
  • Undergrad Students: 26,254
  • Graduate Students: 10,446
  • Grads Salary: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • North Carolina State University at Raleigh
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4
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $64,758
    • Out-of-State:$64,758
  • Net Price: $26,197
  • Acceptance Rate: 21%
  • Retention Rate: 94%
  • Graduation Rate: 90%
  • Total Enrollment: 8,963
  • Undergrad Students: 5,447
  • Graduate Students: 3,516
  • Grads Salary: $79,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Wake Forest University
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5

Davidson College

Score: 80.64

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $60,300
    • Out-of-State:$60,300
  • Net Price: $26,704
  • Acceptance Rate: 17%
  • Retention Rate: 94%
  • Graduation Rate: 92%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,927
  • Undergrad Students: 1,927
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $75,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Davidson College
6
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,748
    • Out-of-State:$20,408
  • Net Price: $9,189
  • Acceptance Rate: 56%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 57%
  • Total Enrollment: 13,487
  • Undergrad Students: 11,833
  • Graduate Students: 1,654
  • Grads Salary: $79,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • North Carolina A&T State University
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7
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,214
    • Out-of-State:$21,876
  • Net Price: $13,951
  • Acceptance Rate: 80%
  • Retention Rate: 84%
  • Graduation Rate: 70%
  • Total Enrollment: 29,551
  • Undergrad Students: 23,461
  • Graduate Students: 6,090
  • Grads Salary: $74,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 20:1
  • University of North Carolina at Charlotte
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8
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,541
    • Out-of-State:$24,537
  • Net Price: $13,084
  • Acceptance Rate: 83%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Graduation Rate: 75%
  • Total Enrollment: 20,436
  • Undergrad Students: 18,558
  • Graduate Students: 1,878
  • Grads Salary: $64,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Appalachian State University
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9
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,317
    • Out-of-State:$22,985
  • Net Price: $18,709
  • Acceptance Rate: 69%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Graduation Rate: 74%
  • Total Enrollment: 17,843
  • Undergrad Students: 14,294
  • Graduate Students: 3,549
  • Grads Salary: $67,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • University of North Carolina Wilmington
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10
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,361
    • Out-of-State:$23,638
  • Net Price: $14,410
  • Acceptance Rate: 92%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 65%
  • Total Enrollment: 27,151
  • Undergrad Students: 21,688
  • Graduate Students: 5,463
  • Grads Salary: $71,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • East Carolina University
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11

Winston-Salem State University

Score: 69.48

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,735
    • Out-of-State:$17,391
  • Net Price: $14,097
  • Acceptance Rate: 73%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Graduation Rate: 50%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,004
  • Undergrad Students: 4,513
  • Graduate Students: 491
  • Grads Salary: $74,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Winston-Salem State University
12

Meredith College

Score: 68.18

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $43,936
    • Out-of-State:$43,936
  • Net Price: $23,259
  • Acceptance Rate: 73%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Graduation Rate: 68%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,587
  • Undergrad Students: 1,322
  • Graduate Students: 265
  • Grads Salary: $68,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Meredith College
13
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,593
    • Out-of-State:$23,339
  • Net Price: $10,979
  • Acceptance Rate: 92%
  • Retention Rate: 73%
  • Graduation Rate: 58%
  • Total Enrollment: 17,978
  • Undergrad Students: 14,198
  • Graduate Students: 3,780
  • Grads Salary: $65,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • University of North Carolina at Greensboro
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14

Elon University

Score: 65.39

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $44,536
    • Out-of-State:$44,536
  • Net Price: $41,527
  • Acceptance Rate: 74%
  • Retention Rate: 90%
  • Graduation Rate: 83%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,123
  • Undergrad Students: 6,337
  • Graduate Students: 786
  • Grads Salary: $69,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Elon University
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15

Guilford College

Score: 64.79

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $41,140
    • Out-of-State:$41,140
  • Net Price: $23,882
  • Acceptance Rate: 84%
  • Retention Rate: 66%
  • Graduation Rate: 49%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,167
  • Undergrad Students: 1,129
  • Graduate Students: 38
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Guilford College
16

University of North Carolina at Asheville

Score: 64.33

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,461
    • Out-of-State:$24,809
  • Net Price: $14,730
  • Acceptance Rate: 74%
  • Retention Rate: 69%
  • Graduation Rate: 59%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,914
  • Undergrad Students: 2,914
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $58,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • University of North Carolina at Asheville
17

Catawba College

Score: 63.53

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $33,400
    • Out-of-State:$33,400
  • Net Price: $19,701
  • Acceptance Rate: 67%
  • Retention Rate: 65%
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,172
  • Undergrad Students: 1,094
  • Graduate Students: 78
  • Grads Salary: $63,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Catawba College
18
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $40,410
    • Out-of-State:$40,410
  • Net Price: $24,280
  • Acceptance Rate: 89%
  • Retention Rate: 75%
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,272
  • Undergrad Students: 2,965
  • Graduate Students: 2,307
  • Grads Salary: $68,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Campbell University
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19

Gardner-Webb University

Score: 62.25

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $33,450
    • Out-of-State:$33,450
  • Net Price: $22,339
  • Acceptance Rate: 75%
  • Retention Rate: 66%
  • Graduation Rate: 52%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,144
  • Undergrad Students: 1,812
  • Graduate Students: 1,332
  • Grads Salary: $66,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Gardner-Webb University
20
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $3,571
    • Out-of-State:$7,571
  • Net Price: $8,208
  • Acceptance Rate: 90%
  • Retention Rate: 72%
  • Graduation Rate: 45%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,666
  • Undergrad Students: 5,643
  • Graduate Students: 2,023
  • Grads Salary: $56,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • University of North Carolina at Pembroke
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Understanding Economics Programs in North Carolina


In North Carolina, an economics program can span various academic levels and offer a multitude of available pathways that can support your career goals. If you're looking to pursue an undergraduate degree, there are options such as a BS or BA in economics. A BS typically delves into quantitative and analysis techniques, while a BA might offer a broader approach to economic principles.

Both options offer elective courses that can be used to minor in another field, or to tailor your education to specific areas of interest in economics. This flexibility allows you to design a program that aligns with your professional aspirations.

With these programs, your education in economics is not just about theories but also about their practical application in the real world. A comprehensive curriculum ensures that you acquire a solid foundation in economic concepts, along with valuable analytical skills.

Online Educational Pathways for an Economics Degree in North Carolina


Online Associates (AS)

Starting with an associate degree in economics, you can lay a foundational understanding of economic principles. These two-year programs typically require completion of economics curriculum courses like microeconomics, macroeconomics, and statistics, and serve as a steppingstone to a bachelor's degree.

National rankings for online AS in economics

Online Bachelors (BS)

For a bachelor’s degree in economics, universities offer comprehensive economics majors programs that may also include specializations. You'll need to meet prerequisites and expect to engage in upper-level courses that cover econometrics, international trade, and quantitative macroeconomics. These programs are usually offered through an economics department or from business schools.

National rankings for online BS in economics

Online Masters (MS)

Expanding your knowledge, a master’s degree in economics prepares you for advanced positions in research and academia. In these programs, you'll engage with complex concepts in econometrics, health economics, and industrial organization, and you may even be able to complete a research thesis. At this level, students may also choose to complete a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in economics, providing economics courses to round out your MBA degree program.

National rankings for online MS in economics

Online Doctorate (PhD)

Attaining a PhD in economics involves contributing original research to the field. The journey includes rigorous training in various specializations such as financial econometrics and international finance, culminating in a dissertation that demonstrates your scholarly expertise.

Learn more about business resources and scholarships Our paying for college guide

Online Certifications

To supplement your degree, economics certifications can provide specialized training in areas like data analysis or financial management. These certifications might involve coursework and exams to demonstrate competency and can often be completed in tandem with degree programs or as continuing education.

Potential Career Options and Salaries for Economics Graduates


As you explore the value of an economics degree in North Carolina, you'll find a robust array of career opportunities awaiting you. The state's diverse economy, ranging from technology to agriculture, provides fertile ground for skilled economists in various roles. Here are just a few options you might gain access to throughout your academic career, as well as their average salaries and educational requirements.

Postsecondary Economics Teacher:

Job description: If you're passionate about shaping young minds, you can become a postsecondary economics teacher. In North Carolina, this role not only allows you to educate future economists but also to engage in research that can influence the state's economic policies. Salaries for this position typically reflect the academic institution's prestige and your level of experience.

Requirements:

  • PhD, Growth Potential 8% (Faster than average)
  • Teach courses in economics
  • Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as econometrics, price theory, and macroeconomics
  • Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts
  • Conduct research in a particular field of knowledge and publish findings in professional journals, books, or electronic media

Median Salary: $133,650

Statistician:

Job description: Statisticians are in high demand, especially in a data-driven economy like North Carolina's. Armed with an economics degree, your proficiency in interpreting and analyzing economic data can help companies and government agencies make informed decisions. The average salary for statisticians in this region ranges considerably based on industry and expertise.

Requirements:

  • Master's degree, Growth Potential 30% (Much faster than average)
  • Develop or apply mathematical or statistical theory and methods to collect, organize, interpret, and summarize numerical data to provide usable information
  • Decide what data are needed to answer specific questions or problems
  • Apply mathematical theories and techniques to solve practical problems in business, engineering, the sciences, and other fields
  • Design surveys, experiments, or opinion polls to collect data

Median Salary: $109,190 

Financial Advisor:

Job description: As a financial advisor, your economics background positions you to provide valuable advice on investment strategies, retirement planning, and financial management to individuals and businesses. With North Carolina's economy growing, your role is crucial in helping clients navigate financial complexities. Compensation varies widely with certifications, client base, and whether you work independently or for a firm.

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree, Growth Potential 13% (Much faster than average)
  • Meet with clients to discuss their financial goals
  • Explain to potential clients the types of financial services they provide
  • Educate clients and answer questions about investment options and potential risks
  • Recommend investments to clients or select investments on their behalf

Median Salary: $99,580

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Logistician:

Job description: In supply chain-centric industries which are pivotal in North Carolina, a logistician plays a vital role. Your grasp of economic principles helps optimize supply chain processes, reducing costs and improving efficiencies. This position's salary is competitive, reflecting the increasing importance of logistics in the state's economy.

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in business or related field, 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: $79,400

By leveraging your economics degree , you have the opportunity to make significant impacts across North Carolina's economy, contributing to its growth and diversity as a home economist or in other economic capacities.

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Frequently Asked Questions


What are the requirements for obtaining an economics degree in North Carolina?

To earn an economics degree in North Carolina, you typically need to complete coursework in economic theory, quantitative methods, and econometrics. BS degrees may have a stronger focus on mathematics and data analysis, while BA degrees might offer more breadth in social sciences.

Can I pursue an economics degree online from a North Carolina university?

Yes, you can pursue an economics degree online from North Carolina universities. Programs may vary in format and availability, so it’s important to check with each institution for specific online offerings. And, if you have trouble finding exactly the right online degree for you, then online education gives you the flexibility to find a program from outside the state and still complete the degree from home/

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