Undergraduate

Economics, B.S.

Gain a more quantitative preparation in economics for the future.

Economics faculty member and student walking and talking together outside on campus

About the Bachelor of Science in Economics

The Department of Economics in the College of Liberal Arts offers the B.S. in Economics. Students gain a broad understanding of the field of economics as well as skills in statistics, mathematics, research methodology, and communication. 

Economics majors can choose from two optional emphases:

  • Financial Economics
  • Law and Economics

B.A. vs. B.S. in Economics

  • The Bachelor of Arts in Economics gives a social science perspective on the questions of economics. This degree prepares students for many positions in business and government. It is more flexible to allow for combining the study of economics with other areas, and includes a requirement for a minor field of study.
  • The Bachelor of Science in Economics requires additional coursework in mathematics and statistics, as well as more quantitative economics classes. It is a more quantitative degree that is more suitable for those preparing for graduate study and/or employment in the rapidly growing technical sector of the U.S. economy.

The Value of an Economics Degree

The economics majors helps develop analytical skills, a strong quantitative background, as well as clarity and precision of expression. Knowledge of the operations of complex economic systems and their institutions provides skills applicable to a wide variety of careers.  

Related careers to economics include aactuary, policy planner, lawyer, stockbroker, bank examiner, labor relations specialist, venture capitalist, cost analyst, market research analyst, development officer, controller, financial planner, marketing manager, chief financial officer, and insurance analyst.

On this Page…

    Program Information

    Degree

    B.S. in Economics

    Emphases

    Financial Economics ;
    Law and Economics

    Required Credit Hours

    120

    Program Type

    Major

    Minor

    Program Location

    Oxford

    Duration

    4 Years

    Department Opportunities

    Learn more about the opportunities to engage beyond the classroom and prepare for life after college. What are the resources for success at the university?

    Video: Get to Know the Department of Economics

    Hear firsthand from students, faculty, and staff about the Economics program.

     

    Law School Preparation: Majoring in Economics

    Research shows that economics students tend to have higher LSAT scores and have among the highest acceptance rates to law school. Lawyers who were undergraduate economics majors also tend to earn higher incomes.

    At the core of the study of market-based economies is the role of private property and private property rights. This creates a natural synergy between the study of markets and the law. Many areas of law require some working knowledge of economics. At the same time, economic analysis can be used to better understand the law. One can examine the economic foundations of property law, torts, criminal law, contracts, and anti-trust.

    The Pre-Law Advising Office 

    The Pre-Law Advising Office will help you every step of the way, no matter your major or the law school of your choice. An example of our services include:

    • Recommendations of courses to prepare for the LSAT and law school
    • Suggestion of a timeline to apply to law school, including how and when to study for the LSAT, when to take the LSAT, and when to prepare all documents for admission
    • Notice of pre-law events and opportunities on and near campus
    • Coordination of panel discussions with law school admissions representatives
    • Guidance in researching law school options
    • Answers to questions related to a law career
    • Feedback on your personal statement
    • Help with the application process on the Law School Admissions Council (LSAT) website

    Optional Minor

    Students in the Bachelor of Science in Economics degree may choose an optional minor based on their interests and career goals.
    Annabelle Harris

    Welcome to the College of Liberal Arts

    As Coordinator of Student Recruitment for the College of Liberal Arts, I work with students, and their parents, who are interested in attending UM for their undergraduate degrees. I coordinate personalized visits to our departments, answer questions about the majors and programs in the CLA and handle all recruitment communications from the CLA. Please feel free to send me any questions you may have. It is my job to make sure you have everything you need to make an informed decision on where to spend your college career, and I hope it will be with the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Mississippi!

    Annabelle Harris

    CLA Coordinator of Student Recruitment

    Future CLA Students

    image of a group of students studying together in the Union

    College of Liberal Arts Undergraduate Students

    We invite future undergraduates to learn about the College of Liberal Arts, the value of the liberal arts education, our programs, career opportunities, and resources to help you succeed. You can also request a personalized degree sheet. 

    Next Steps

    Explore Affordability

    We have a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for you and your family.

    Apply to the University of Mississippi

    Are you ready to take the next step toward building your legacy?