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What is Economics?
Pursuing an economics degree in Tennessee offers a comprehensive educational experience combining foundational economic theory with quantitative analysis and practical skills. Students can choose from a variety of programs across the state, each with its unique curriculum and specializations. At this intersection of business and analytical skills, colleges and universities provide bachelor's programs that lay the groundwork for a multitude of rewarding careers. Unique, STEM-designated  economics programs equip students with a strong foundation in quantitative economics and econometrics.
In Tennessee, online degrees are becoming increasingly accessible, providing flexibility to students who need to balance their studies with other commitments. Online economics programs allow for a more diverse range of students to immerse themselves in this field, opening doors to careers that require a strong economic understanding and data analysis expertise. When considering online education pathways, it's crucial to account for various factors such as funding opportunities, accreditation, and career outcomes post-graduation. Notably, accredited economics programs ensure that the education received meets rigorous standards, which is essential for career prospects and further educational opportunities.
Overview of the Economics Systems Field
Tennessee's economics programs can equip you with the tools to analyze both business strategy and public policy impacts. Whether your interests lie in the private sector or public service, these degrees blend theory with practical applications.
State Economic Initiatives and Studies
By pursuing an economics undergraduate degree in Tennessee, you're positioning yourself to study economic models and data analysis methods critical to state economic initiatives. Your coursework as an economics major will likely include case studies on regional economic development and analytical projects that correlate with Tennessee’s economic strategies.
Tennessee's academic institutions also offer economics programs with some variation. A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics prepares you with a solid foundation in the humanities, along with economic theory and the quantitative skills for rigorous data analysis. A Bachelor of Science in Economics will focus more on analytical and quantitative learning, with fewer courses in the humanities.
When enrolling in a school of economics in Tennessee, consider programs that intertwine with state-wide economic interests. These may include research in economic inequality, environmental economics, and healthcare economics, reflecting statewide concerns and development priorities. Being part of a top undergraduate economics program means you can engage with studies directly impacting Tennessee's economic policy and business environment. The state's commitment to fostering a strong economy is reflected in their postsecondary institutions, where you, as an econ major, can contribute to these initiatives through your studies and research.
Online vs. Campus Program Benefits
Tennessee offers diverse opportunities for you to pursue economics majors online, providing a convenient pathway for becoming an economist in this vibrant state.
Comparing Online and On-campus Education
When considering an online bachelor’s degree in economics, it's crucial to understand the distinctions between online and on-campus education. Online programs in Tennessee can offer greater flexibility and self-paced learning, which may suit your schedule if you are balancing other commitments such as work or family.
Flexibility: Online courses allow you to access materials 24/7, so you can study at times that work best for you.
Location Independence: You can study from anywhere in the state or beyond, eliminating the need for a daily commute.
Conversely, on-campus programs tend to be more structured, offering direct interaction with professors and peers.
Structured Learning Environment: Physical classrooms can lead to routine and discipline in your study habits.
Networking Opportunities: Being on campus allows you to connect face-to-face with classmates and faculty, which can be valuable for career opportunities.
Considering your learning style and career goals is paramount when deciding between the two. An online bachelor’s degree in economics can be just as rigorous and rewarding as its on-campus counterpart, with many programs offering courses that mirror those taught in physical classrooms.
For you to become an economist, you can look for a regionally accredited online program that offers comprehensive economics courses including microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and various electives that cover both theoretical and applied aspects of the field. Ensure that the online program includes a curriculum geared toward preparing Tennessee economists, with a focus on the state's economic landscape.
Online Educational Pathways for an Economics Degree in Tennessee
Online Associate Degree in Economics (AS)
An associate degree in economics provides you with the essential knowledge of economics principles and their applications. Tennessee's programs at this level often serve as a steppingstone to a four-year university. Programs like the Tennessee Transfer Pathways (TTPs) make sure you can transfer seamlessly to a public university in the state to complete your BA in economics. It’s important to understand that, though this may give you access to some finance or banking roles, you will not be able to work as an economist without further education.
National Rankings for Online AS in EconomicsOnline Bachelor’s Degree in Economics (BS)
Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in economics from a college or university enables you to grasp complex economic theories and develop analytical skills. BA degree programs in economics offer a breadth of courses allowing you to tailor your study to interests such as business strategy, public policy, or applied economics. Notable institutions in Tennessee also sometimes provide online economics courses as part of their curriculum.
National Rankings for Online BS in EconomicsOnline Master’s Degree in Economics (MS)
A master’s degree in economics amplifies your ability to analyze economic data and apply economic theory to solve real-world problems. Graduate study can also offer specializations in fields such as econometrics or applied economics. You’ll find that some of the best undergraduate programs also provide pathways to graduate studies. Students at this level may also complete a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with economics majors.
National Rankings for Online MS in EconomicsOnline PhD in Economics (PhD)
By reaching for a PhD in economics, you are diving into the pinnacle of economic study. PhD programs demand a high level of commitment and are designed for those aiming to contribute original research or teach abuot the financial system at the university level.
Learn more about business resources and scholarships Our paying for college guideOnline Economics Certifications
Besides full degrees, you can also enhance your credentials with economics certifications. These programs often focus on specialized skills, like data analysis or a particular aspect of economic theory, and they serve to complement your existing degree or professional experience.
Funding Your Economics Studies
Securing the financial resources for your education is a critical step in pursuing your degree in economics. That’s why it’s important to consider tuition costs and consider various financial aid opportunities that can make your academic journey more affordable.
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Tuition Cost and Fees
Understanding the full scope of tuition costs and associated fees is essential. On average, public colleges and universities may charge in-state students approximately $9,375 per year in tuition and fees. However, this figure can fluctuate based on institution and program specifics. An economics master’s degree or PhD program often entail different pricing structures than undergraduate degrees, with more intensive coursework usually leading to higher fees.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
You have several avenues to explore when it comes to financial aid and scholarships. Federal financial aid, merit-based scholarships, and program-specific grants can all contribute to reducing the financial burden of an economics degree.
- Federal Aid: Fill out the FAFSA to determine eligibility for loans and grants
- Scholarships: Research and apply for scholarships aimed at economics students
- Assistantships: For economist PhD candidates, and in some master’s programs, assistantships can provide tuition remission and a stipend
Secure available funding early to ensure that financial concerns do not hinder your pursuit of an economics degree.
Accreditation and Licensing
Accreditation is a critical factor in choosing an economics degree as it assures you of the program's quality and the recognition of your degree in the professional world. It is a benchmark for academic standards key to economists and statisticians.
Accrediting Bodies and Organizations
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC): Most reputable institutions in Tennessee are accredited by SACSCOC, which oversees the quality and integrity of higher education in the Southern states. Ensure the economics degree you are considering, if it’s in Tennessee, is accredited by this body.
AACSB: If your interest lies in the intersection of economics and business, look for a program endorsed by AACSB International. This accreditation is a mark of excellence in business education, which is vital if you're aiming to become an economist or statistician within the business sector.
ACBSP: The ACBSP is perhaps best known as an accrediting agency for MBA programs, however their scope goes far beyond that. In fact, they accredit business degree programs at all levels.
Economics Degree Accreditation:
- Regional Accreditation: Your degree should be from a regionally accredited institution, which ensures that it adheres to high educational standards and will be recognized by employers and other educational institutions.
- Program-Specific Accreditation: While less common for economics programs, some may have additional endorsements from program-specific accrediting agencies that focus on particular fields of study.
Potential Careers and Salaries for Economics Graduates
With a solid foundation in economics, you have access to a range of career options that offer competitive salaries. Your analytical skills, understanding of market trends, and ability to forecast economic conditions make you a valuable asset in various roles within the business arena. Here are just a few roles that might be perfect for you once you have completed a degree in this or a related field.
Market Research Analyst:
Job description: As a market research analyst, your main role is to assess consumer preferences to help organizations decide how to shape, advertise, and market their products and services. With a master’s in economics, you are particularly well-suited for this role as you can not only gather but also analyze complex data sets and translate economic trends into actionable business insights.
Requirements:
- Bachelors in marketing, 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
Risk Manager:
Job description: In the role of a risk manager, you are responsible for identifying potential risks to the assets, earning capacity, or success of a company. You use your economic knowledge to evaluate the probability of and mitigate risks resulting from fluctuations in financial markets, legal liabilities, management errors, and accidents.
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
Logistician:
Job description: Your work as a logistician involves managing and optimizing the supply chain—the lifeblood of any product-based business. Your economics degree equips you with the ability to forecast supply and demand, manage inventory levels, and analyze transportation costs to find the most efficient solutions.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree, Growth Potential 18% (Much faster than average)
- Analyze and coordinate the ongoing logistical functions of a firm or organization
- Oversee product acquisition
- Direct the allocation of materials, supplies, and products
- Forecast and direct the alignment of a product’s demand and supply flows
Median Salary: $84,640
Operations Manager:
Job description: Operations managers have a pivotal role in overseeing the production of goods and services. It's your job to ensure that your company operates efficiently and effectively while maintaining profitability. An advanced degree like a master's in economics can help you grasp the complex cost factors and economic principles that drive operational success.
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 moreFrequently Asked Questions
What academic requirements must be met to obtain an economics degree in Tennessee?
To secure an economics degree in Tennessee, you typically need to complete undergraduate prerequisites, which often include courses in mathematics, statistics, and introductory economics. For a master's degree, 33 credit hours of graduate coursework is the standard, featuring core classes in economic analysis and applied statistical methods.
Are there colleges that offer accredited economics degrees in Tennessee?
Yes, there are multiple institutions offering accredited economics degrees in Tennessee where students can earn a degree by studying economics. These institutions provide comprehensive economics programs. The curriculum usually encompasses foundational theory, econometric tools, managerial economics, labor economics, and other economics fields.
Can I pursue an economics degree through online courses in Tennessee?
It is possible to pursue an economics degree online in Tennessee. Institutions may offer hybrid or fully online programs that accommodate students with different schedules and learning preferences. You should check with each institution for the availability of online economics degrees.
How does obtaining economics certificates impact one's career in Tennessee?
Obtaining economics certificates can bolster your resume and demonstrate specialization in certain economic fields or analytical methods. While they may not carry the same weight as a full degree, certificates can still be valuable in the job market and may enhance career prospects or lead to advancement.