An online associate degree in economics may provide students with the skills and training needed to apply economic principles to business and governmental decisions. In these two-year programs, students may learn about the fundamentals of microeconomics and macroeconomics and how they both relate to the business world. Coursework may include general education requirements along with core economics classes, such as information systems, finance, and accounting.

Graduates may pursue entry-level employment or further their education by enrolling in a bachelor’s degree program in economics. Graduates may find entry-level employment in a variety of settings, including banking, federal and state government, and consulting.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 6% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an associate-level program in economics may include several general education requirement courses in addition to major-specific ones. Within these programs, students may study economic principles and policies and learn how to make sound management decisions. Core economics courses may include the following:

• Microeconomics
• Macroeconomics
• Intro to Business
• Accounting
• Information Systems
• Money and Banking
• Finance

Career Options

Associate-level graduates of online economics programs may find employment opportunities in the federal or state government, consulting, banking, and scientific research. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities are expected to increase by 6% from 2010-2020*.

Possible careers include:

• Economist
• Compliance Manager
• Survey Researcher
• Investment Fund Manager
• Regulatory Affairs Manager

Continuing Education

Graduates of online associate-level programs in economics may seek entry-level employment or enroll in a bachelor’s degree program in economics. These four-year programs may be available in conjunction with business administration courses and further students’ knowledge about microeconomics and macroeconomics. Many employers may prefer to hire applicants who have at least a bachelor’s degree, and others may require applicants to have a graduate degree in addition to work experience.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook