Economics
Department of Economics
Administration
Chair: Lars John Lefgren
Department Information:
2146 West View Building
801-422-2859
economics@byu.edu
Advisement Center:
1041 JFSB
801-422-3541
liberalarts@byu.edu
Admission to Degree Program
All degree programs in the Department of Economics are open enrollment. However, special limitations apply for teaching majors.
The Discipline
Economics is the study of how decisions are made--by individuals, households, groups, or governments--and how those decisions interact and the consequences that follow. As such, the discipline of economics studies the full range of human behavior and interactions, studying topics such as poverty and economic development, competition and regulation, education, health care, criminal justice, environmental policy, unemployment, money and finance, political processes, and international trade. Economics develops both analytic problem-solving skills and sophisticated data analysis skills, preparing students for a wide range of career opportunities.
Career Opportunities
Economics provides analytical and quantitative skills that are useful in a wide variety of careers, including fields such as business and entrepreneurship, consulting, technology and data science, government, non-profit work, finance, banking, and healthcare. Graduates are well prepared for jobs requiring strategic analysis, data analytics, financial management, policy analysis, product management, and more. Often, graduates later pursue advanced degrees in business or related fields. Many economics students immediately begin graduate studies in economics, law, finance, public policy, or medicine. All graduates, including those who do not enter the workforce, benefit from the critical thinking and analytical skills that shape relationships and life decisions.
Graduation Requirements
To receive a BYU bachelor's degree a student must complete, in addition to all requirements for a specific major, the following university requirements:
The University Core, consisting of requirements in general and religious education.
At least 30 credit hours must be earned in residence on the BYU campus in Provo as an admitted day student
A minimum of 120 credit hours
A cumulative GPA of at least 2.0
Be in good standing with the Honor Code Office
Students should see their college advisement center for help or information concerning the undergraduate programs.
