Undergraduate Programs

Why Study Economics?

Economics addresses the problem of using scarce resources to satisfy society’s unlimited wants. The discipline is divided into two (2) general areas: microeconomics and macroeconomics. Microeconomics explores questions about the way society allocates resources; it applies to public policy in such areas as urban, industrial organization, and labor economics. Macroeconomics considers such questions as the causes of inflation and unemployment, and it applies to such areas as monetary development and international economics.


Major in Economics

An economics major teaches cutting-edge tools for data collection and analysis while helping you build the necessary skills to analyze and discuss the most important economics issues of today. You'll develop a competitive foundation for graduate study in economics, business, law, or policy, while preparing for a wide array of career options in both the public and private sectors. The UO Economics major is STEM designated. 


Professor and students in the classroom

Minor in Economics

The Department of Economics offers a minor for students pursuing other majors. Undergraduate courses in economics provide broad knowledge of the field as a part of the program of liberal arts education offered by the College of Arts and Sciences. They also lay a solid foundation in economics for students interested in professional graduate training in economics or in careers in business, law, government, or journalism.

Minor Requirements


Photo of Ali Campbell

“Going into college, I had no idea what I wanted to major in, but I knew I was interested in learning about real-world problems and solutions. After taking my first economics class I realized it was the right major for me, not only because I enjoy the subject itself, but also because of the immense support by all of the faculty I have interacted with, even in larger lower-division classes.”

—Ali Campbell, Economics and Political Science, '23


peers collabarating

Collaborate with Peers

The UO Economics Club is a space for students, faculty, and community members with an interest in economics. Our weekly meetings feature guest speakers and other opportunities for student engagement outside of a classroom setting.  

Hands-on Learning


Econ graduates

What You Can Do with an Economics Degree

An economics major can prepare you to work in many fields. Learn about possible careers and hear from alumni.

Explore Careers


Advising and Academic Support

Schedule an appointment with a faculty or peer advisor, find important department forms, and get answers.

Departmental Advising and Support


Scholarships and Awards

Learn about ways to apply for funding through the Department of Economics. 

Explore Scholarships and Awards


Events

Organic/Inorganic/Materials Chemistry Seminar Series - Chalcogenides by Design: Developing Treasure Maps with Quantum Chemistry
Mar17
Organic/Inorganic/Materials Chemistry Seminar Series - Chalcogenides by Design: Developing Treasure Maps with Quantum Chemistry Mar 17 Willamette Hall
Dept. of History Seminar Series: They Know their Value and Take Advantage of It: Household Workers' Organizing at the Dawn of an American Service Economy
Mar18
Dept. of History Seminar Series: They Know their Value and Take Advantage of It: Household Workers' Organizing at the Dawn of an American Service Economy Mar 18 McKenzie Hall
Physical Chemistry Seminar Series - Rotation Talk
Mar20
Physical Chemistry Seminar Series - Rotation Talk Mar 20 Fenton Hall
From Dissertation to Dream Job: Leveraging AI & LinkedIn for Career Clarity
Mar24
From Dissertation to Dream Job: Leveraging AI & LinkedIn for Career Clarity Mar 24
Designing Your Future for PhDs: A Primer
Mar27
Designing Your Future for PhDs: A Primer Mar 27
What is Research? (2025)
Apr3
What is Research? (2025) Apr 3 University of Oregon Portland
What is Research? (2025)
Apr4
What is Research? (2025) Apr 4 University of Oregon Portland
What is Research? (2025)
Apr5
What is Research? (2025) Apr 5 University of Oregon Portland
Mastering the Art of a Humanities & Social Science Poster
Apr7
Mastering the Art of a Humanities & Social Science Poster Apr 7
Dept. of History Pierson Lecture: "Trans Berlin: The World's First Trans Politics, Berlin's Queer Golden Age, and the Rise of Fascism, 1918-1933"
Apr8
Dept. of History Pierson Lecture: "Trans Berlin: The World's First Trans Politics, Berlin's Queer Golden Age, and the Rise of Fascism, 1918-1933" Apr 8 Gerlinger Hall