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

2024 Electrochem PNW Conference
Sep19
2024 Electrochem PNW Conference Sep 19 Willamette Hall
2024 Electrochem PNW Conference
Sep20
2024 Electrochem PNW Conference Sep 20 Willamette Hall
Graduate Employee Day of Teaching
Sep25
Graduate Employee Day of Teaching Sep 25 Willamette Hall
The Achievement of James Joyce
Sep28
The Achievement of James Joyce Sep 28 Baker Downtown Center
Theatre Arts - New Student Welcome Party
Sep30
Theatre Arts - New Student Welcome Party Sep 30 Miller Theatre Complex
Department of History Undergraduate Get-Together
Oct1
Department of History Undergraduate Get-Together Oct 1 McKenzie Hall
Free Navarasa Dance Workshop at the UO Campus
Oct4
Free Navarasa Dance Workshop at the UO Campus Oct 4 Gerlinger Annex
Department of History Coffee Hour
Oct8
Department of History Coffee Hour Oct 8 McKenzie Hall
13th Annual SPICE Science Open House 2024
Oct9
13th Annual SPICE Science Open House 2024 Oct 9 Willamette Hall
Dept. of History Graduate Student Welcome Back Barbecue
Oct10
Dept. of History Graduate Student Welcome Back Barbecue Oct 10 Wayne Morris Family Farm Picnic Shelter