What is Economics?
Pursuing an online or on-campus economics degree in Ohio offers a range of academic avenues and an opportunity for a fulfilling career. The state is home to respected institutions that provide students with comprehensive economics programs, whether you're seeking an undergraduate or an advanced degree. Students in Ohio have the chance to learn from world-renowned faculty members and participate in cutting-edge research opportunities. Furthermore, these programs often feature strong extracurricular activities to develop leadership skills and foster direct interactions among peers and mentors.
Ohio presents a spectrum of options for potential economists, from large research universities in urban centers to smaller colleges with focused specialties. Courses such as Principles of Microeconomics and Macroeconomics, Economic Data Analysis, and Mathematics for Economists are staples of these programs. Additionally, many Ohio colleges offer resources to help find financial aid and scholarships, ensuring that economics education is accessible to a wider demographic. Students looking to learn about environmental economics, behavioral economics, and other economics majors can choose from a variety of online and local institutions in Ohio. Options include Ohio Wesleyan University, Kenyon College, Case Western Reserve University, Miami University, Oberlin College, Denison University, Ohio State University, and more.
Featured Online Programs
Top Ranked Campus & Online Economics Programs in Ohio
Case Western Reserve University
Score: 87.26
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $64,671
- Out-of-State:$64,671
- Net Price: $38,279
- Acceptance Rate: 27%
- Retention Rate: 93%
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- Total Enrollment: 12,201
- Undergrad Students: 6,017
- Graduate Students: 6,184
- Grads Salary: $84,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
Ohio State University
Score: 86.02
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,859
- Out-of-State:$38,365
- Net Price: $19,582
- Acceptance Rate: 53%
- Retention Rate: 93%
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- Total Enrollment: 60,540
- Undergrad Students: 46,123
- Graduate Students: 14,417
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Denison University
Score: 83.17
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $64,000
- Out-of-State:$64,000
- Net Price: $38,267
- Acceptance Rate: 22%
- Retention Rate: 90%
- Graduation Rate: 85%
- Total Enrollment: 2,416
- Undergrad Students: 2,416
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
Miami University-Oxford
Score: 80.56
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $17,809
- Out-of-State:$40,025
- Net Price: $23,031
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 81%
- Total Enrollment: 19,107
- Undergrad Students: 16,864
- Graduate Students: 2,243
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Kenyon College
Score: 80.44
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $69,330
- Out-of-State:$69,330
- Net Price: $43,044
- Acceptance Rate: 34%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 87%
- Total Enrollment: 1,885
- Undergrad Students: 1,885
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
University of Dayton
Score: 79.87
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $47,600
- Out-of-State:$47,600
- Net Price: $30,590
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 81%
- Total Enrollment: 11,674
- Undergrad Students: 8,416
- Graduate Students: 3,258
- Grads Salary: $79,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Oberlin College
Score: 79.24
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $64,646
- Out-of-State:$64,646
- Net Price: $46,462
- Acceptance Rate: 35%
- Retention Rate: 87%
- Graduation Rate: 83%
- Total Enrollment: 2,992
- Undergrad Students: 2,986
- Graduate Students: 6
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
The College of Wooster
Score: 77.78
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $59,550
- Out-of-State:$59,550
- Net Price: $28,976
- Acceptance Rate: 56%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 74%
- Total Enrollment: 1,967
- Undergrad Students: 1,967
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $72,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
University of Cincinnati
Score: 76.46
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,570
- Out-of-State:$30,582
- Net Price: $20,149
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 72%
- Total Enrollment: 41,155
- Undergrad Students: 29,663
- Graduate Students: 11,492
- Grads Salary: $74,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Ohio Wesleyan University
Score: 76.3
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $52,357
- Out-of-State:$52,357
- Net Price: $27,311
- Acceptance Rate: 52%
- Retention Rate: 82%
- Graduation Rate: 66%
- Total Enrollment: 1,410
- Undergrad Students: 1,410
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $72,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
The University of Findlay
Score: 76.19
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $39,646
- Out-of-State:$39,646
- Net Price: $24,069
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 65%
- Total Enrollment: 4,869
- Undergrad Students: 3,795
- Graduate Students: 1,074
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Xavier University
Score: 75.97
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $48,125
- Out-of-State:$48,125
- Net Price: $31,619
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Retention Rate: 84%
- Graduation Rate: 74%
- Total Enrollment: 6,114
- Undergrad Students: 4,852
- Graduate Students: 1,262
- Grads Salary: $74,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Franciscan University of Steubenville
Score: 75.93
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $32,630
- Out-of-State:$32,630
- Net Price: $25,310
- Acceptance Rate: 67%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 76%
- Total Enrollment: 3,656
- Undergrad Students: 2,785
- Graduate Students: 871
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Baldwin Wallace University
Score: 74.88
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $37,938
- Out-of-State:$37,938
- Net Price: $28,705
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Retention Rate: 82%
- Graduation Rate: 65%
- Total Enrollment: 3,220
- Undergrad Students: 2,744
- Graduate Students: 476
- Grads Salary: $72,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
John Carroll University
Score: 74.06
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $49,100
- Out-of-State:$49,100
- Net Price: $30,496
- Acceptance Rate: 82%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 78%
- Total Enrollment: 2,922
- Undergrad Students: 2,417
- Graduate Students: 505
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Marietta College
Score: 73.39
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $38,974
- Out-of-State:$38,974
- Net Price: $22,895
- Acceptance Rate: 83%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
- Total Enrollment: 1,198
- Undergrad Students: 1,109
- Graduate Students: 89
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
Otterbein University
Score: 73.21
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $34,899
- Out-of-State:$34,899
- Net Price: $22,661
- Acceptance Rate: 84%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 69%
- Total Enrollment: 2,458
- Undergrad Students: 2,173
- Graduate Students: 285
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Ohio University
Score: 73.16
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,746
- Out-of-State:$24,114
- Net Price: $20,207
- Acceptance Rate: 87%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 65%
- Total Enrollment: 24,145
- Undergrad Students: 18,113
- Graduate Students: 6,032
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Ashland University
Score: 72.32
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $28,910
- Out-of-State:$28,910
- Net Price: $20,342
- Acceptance Rate: 72%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 60%
- Total Enrollment: 4,174
- Undergrad Students: 3,083
- Graduate Students: 1,091
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Bluffton University
Score: 72.17
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $36,298
- Out-of-State:$36,298
- Net Price: $21,247
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Total Enrollment: 745
- Undergrad Students: 664
- Graduate Students: 81
- Grads Salary: $79,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
University of Toledo
Score: 72
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,377
- Out-of-State:$21,737
- Net Price: $17,654
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Total Enrollment: 15,545
- Undergrad Students: 11,965
- Graduate Students: 3,580
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Ohio Dominican University
Score: 71.97
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $34,370
- Out-of-State:$34,370
- Net Price: $21,881
- Acceptance Rate: 52%
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 51%
- Total Enrollment: 1,276
- Undergrad Students: 846
- Graduate Students: 430
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Muskingum University
Score: 71.89
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $31,440
- Out-of-State:$31,440
- Net Price: $19,682
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 60%
- Total Enrollment: 2,117
- Undergrad Students: 1,484
- Graduate Students: 633
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Bowling Green State University
Score: 71.76
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,081
- Out-of-State:$22,070
- Net Price: $20,485
- Acceptance Rate: 79%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
- Total Enrollment: 16,920
- Undergrad Students: 13,853
- Graduate Students: 3,067
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Wittenberg University
Score: 71.54
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $44,602
- Out-of-State:$44,602
- Net Price: $22,912
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 57%
- Total Enrollment: 1,299
- Undergrad Students: 1,258
- Graduate Students: 41
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Understanding the Online Economics Program
When exploring economics degrees in Ohio, it's important to know what's available to match your educational goals. If you're aiming for an undergraduate economics degree, such as a bachelor’s, there are several notable options for you. Various institutions offer programs tailored to students aiming to complete their bachelor’s degree in economics, some with the flexibility of an online format.
Online curricula typically mirror the traditional on-campus programs, focusing on analytical skills, economic theory, quantitative analysis, and critical thinking. These programs help prepare you for a multitude of careers in both the public and private sectors, and they offer a foundation for those considering advanced degrees.
For students aspiring to higher educational attainment, such as an Economics Master’s or a PhD in Economics, Ohio universities provide rigorous online programs to prepare you for the demands of those paths. The MA in Economics at Ohio University, for example, is particularly designed to equip you with quantitative and analytical skills. This program is STEM-designated, which can be advantageous if you're an international student seeking extended practical training opportunities.
Your choice should align with your career ambitions, be it pursuing advanced economics studies or directly entering the workforce. Selecting the right program involves considering program content, flexibility, and how well it aligns with your professional objectives.
Online Educational Pathways for an Economics Degree in Ohio
Your journey to becoming an economist in Ohio can begin at various educational levels, each providing specific skills and knowledge essential for the field. Here, you'll find an outline of the educational pathways available to you, from an associate degree to specialized certifications.
Online Associates (AS)
An associate degree in economics provides you with foundational knowledge in microeconomics and macroeconomics that you will require for further education. This degree typically requires two years of study and prepares you for entry-level positions or a higher-level degree in economics. Upon completion, you can transfer credits towards a bachelor's degree through programs like the Ohio Guaranteed Economics Transfer Pathway.
National rankings - online AS in economicsOnline Bachelors (BS)
Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in economics offers a comprehensive understanding of economic theories and quantitative analysis. With a focus on areas like market analysis and financial economics, majors in economics are poised for diverse career options. Most undergraduate degrees take four years to complete, and Ohio institutions offer the choice between a Bachelor of Science (BS) and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in economics, with the former often emphasizing a more quantitative approach.
National rankings - online BS in economics Hardest majors Easiest majorsOnline Masters (MS)
To further your expertise, a master’s degree in economics takes around one to two years and involves advanced coursework in statistical analysis and economic modeling. These degrees are ideal for positions requiring in-depth quantitative and analytical skills, providing a competitive edge in the job market. You may also choose to earn a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on economics at this level, as long as your undergraduate degree supports this.
National rankings - online MS in economicsOnline Doctorate (PhD)
Going beyond a master's, a PhD in economics positions you for the highest levels of research projects and academia. It is a multi-year commitment dedicated to specialized research in economics schools, equipping you with the rigorous analytical and methodological skills necessary for original research contributions in your chosen area of economics.
Get our resources and scholarships guide for business How to pay for college guideOnline Certifications
Aside from degrees, you can enhance your credentials with economics certifications. These are shorter, focused programs that provide expertise in specific areas such as financial economics or economic policy. Certifications are a strategic way to keep your skills current and demonstrate specialized knowledge to potential employers.
Navigating Economics Education
When pursuing an economics degree in Ohio, you have the flexibility to choose between online and traditional on-campus programs. Here, we’ll look at some key differences and considerations.
Find Online Economics Schools
Comparing Online and On-campus Options
When assessing online and on-campus economics degrees, consider factors such as program structure, flexibility, and interaction levels.
- Program Structure: Online bachelor’s and master's programs in economics often provide the same rigorous curriculum as their on-campus counterparts. However, the delivery method is suited for remote learning, utilizing digital platforms to administer lectures, assignments, and exams.
- Flexibility: Online economics programs tend to offer more flexibility. You can usually access course materials at any time, making it easier to balance your studies with work or other commitments. In contrast, on-campus programs have a fixed schedule and location.
- Interaction: While on-campus programs may offer more direct interaction with faculty and peers, online programs are not far behind. Many online economics degrees offered by Ohio universities include interactive components such as discussion forums, group projects, and live video sessions. However, you may have to be more dedicated to get everything out of them that you can.
Remember, an online economics bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree can be equally prestigious and academically challenging as on-campus programs, provided you choose an accredited institution that meets your educational needs.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
When pursuing an economics bachelor’s degree, you have various financial aid and scholarship options to help fund your education. Scholarships can significantly reduce the burden of tuition costs.
Scholarships: There are scholarships available specifically for students majoring in economics. For instance, some opportunities include:
- Jeffrey T and Rose L Heintz Scholarship for studies in Economics
- John Peterson Memorial Award
- And more
To explore the full list of scholarships and understand the eligibility criteria, you are encouraged to reach out directly to the economics department of your chosen institution.
Financial Aid: Federal financial aid is also available to eligible students. You should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. (As a note, the FAFSA can also decide eligibility for other scholarships.) Additionally, public colleges often offer in-state tuition rates that make education more affordable.
For a master’s in economics, Ohio University offers a one-year MA program. Small class sizes ensure more thorough guidance and learning. Financial aid options may differ for graduate programs, so check with the graduate school’s financial aid office.
Investing in an economics degree equips you with the analytical skills needed for high-paying careers. With financial planning, scholarships, and aid, you can make this investment more manageable.
Networking and Professional Development
Pursuing an economics major as an undergraduate offers more than just classroom education. In Ohio, you can substantially benefit from opportunities in networking and professional development that are integral to becoming a successful economist.
Student Organizations
As an economics undergraduate, you can join a variety of student organizations that offer networking opportunities with peers and professionals. Participation in these groups allows you to engage in academic discussions, attend sponsored events, and gain insight into the field from experienced economists.
Professional Economics Associations
Joining a professional economics association sets the foundation for lifelong professional development and networking. As a member, you can access resources, job boards, and industry publications. In Ohio, the Ohio Economic Development Association (OEDA) stands out as a source for continued education through conferences and courses specifically tailored for economic developers at all levels. The association also emphasizes the significance of staying informed about statewide economic initiatives which can be pivotal for your professional growth.
Potential Careers and Salaries for Graduates
With an economics degree in Ohio, you have several lucrative career paths to consider. Your major in financial economics or a related field can open doors to roles where analyzing data, forecasting market trends, and optimizing business strategies are key responsibilities. No matter which field of economics you choose, there are plenty of options out there. Here are just a few options that you might have access to with an economics education.
Market Research Analyst:
Job description: As a market research analyst, you'll scrutinize market conditions to help companies understand what products people want, who will buy them, and at what price. Your analytical skills as an economics major will be fundamental in interpreting data and forging actionable marketing strategies.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree, Growth Potential 13% (Much faster than average)
- 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
- Gather data on consumers, competitors, and market conditions
Median Salary: $74,680
Learn moreSupply Chain Analyst:
Job description: Supply chain analysts play a crucial part in optimizing supply chain operations. Here, your economics degree equips you with the ability to tackle logistical challenges and streamline processes, aiming for cost-effectiveness and efficiency.
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
- Determine appropriate equipment and staffing levels to load, unload, move, or store materials
Median Salary: $79,400
Learn moreOperations Manager:
Job description: Pursuing a career as an operations manager, you're looking at a competitive salary depending on the company and your experience. An operations manager oversees various departments, ensuring they meet production targets while managing budgets and policies. Your background in economics could be invaluable for the strategic planning and financial analysis required in this role.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree, 5 years or more work experience
- Plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of public or private sector organizations, overseeing multiple departments or locations
- Review financial statements, sales or activity reports, or other performance data to measure productivity or goal achievement or to identify areas needing cost reduction or program improvement
- Direct and coordinate activities of businesses or departments concerned with the production, pricing, sales, or distribution of products
- Direct administrative activities directly related to making products or providing services
Median Salary: $129,330
Learn morePostsecondary Mathematics Teacher:
Job description: Being a postsecondary mathematics teacher involves instructing mathematics and economics students in a wide range of mathematical and economic theories and practices. Your solid foundation in financial economics will serve you well in academic settings, enriching future economists' education.
Requirements:
- PhD
- 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
- Compile, administer, and grade examinations, or assign this work to others
- 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
Median Salary: $95,320
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common prerequisites for pursuing an economics degree in Ohio universities?
To enroll in an economics program, you typically need a strong foundation in mathematics, including proficiency in algebra and calculus. Some universities may also require introductory courses in economics or related fields. And the usual requirements also apply; for a bachelor’s, you’ll need a high school diploma and perhaps standardized test scores, while, for a master’s, you may need a GMAT and several years of work experience.
Which Ohio universities offer accredited online economics degrees?
Ohio boasts hosting many reputable accredited online institutions that offer economics programs. These universities have received accreditation for their online offerings based on performance ensuring a quality education. Options include Ohio University, Wright State University, Strayer University, etc.
What are the advantages of obtaining a master’s in economics?
A master's in economics can provide you with advanced analytical and quantitative skills. The program's design prepares you for competitive positions in the public and private sectors and a strong foundation for a PhD.
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