Quantitative Economics (BS)

Why Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Quantitative Economics at Indiana State?

Indiana State University’s Bachelor of Science degree in quantitative economics is a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics [STEM]-based program that utilizes mathematical, statistical, and economic analysis to solve economic problems. The program uses elements of calculus and statistics to prepare students for a variety of quantitatively oriented career paths. The degree is ideal for students with aptitude and interest in mathematics in relation to the field of economics. The program also provides excellent preparation for graduate studies.

Analyze Economic Problems

The current field of economics has experienced a growing movement to incorporate quantitative skills for professionals to analyze economic problems, explore theories, predict future economic conditions, and develop careful reasoning skills. This is accomplished through mathematical models—including calculus-based microeconomic theory and econometrics—and statistical procedures. You will learn not just to accept the economic world as it is but rather to understand and analyze economics through a diverse, mathematical perspective.

Learn from Our Excellent Faculty

As a quantitative economics major, you will benefit from small classes taught by award-winning faculty who represent a diversity of specialties in economics and mathematics. Most hold doctoral degrees and engage in research and scholarly activities. Our instructors incorporate their scholarship into class discussions and assignments.

Through one-on-one advising, your instructors will assist you with professional development, including career path selection, internships, undergraduate research opportunities, and participation at professional conferences. If you are interested in graduate study in economics, your instructors will advise you on mathematical studies and other prerequisites for these graduate school programs.

What You'll Learn in the Quantitative Economics Program

The Bachelor of Science in Quantitative Economics is a variation on our Bachelor of Science in Economics, yet the Quantitative Economics BS program emphasizes more quantitative courses, mathematics, and statistics. The study of quantitative economics incorporates the foundational elements of calculus and statistics to prepare students for rigorous economic analysis. You will also have opportunities to engage in research and participate in professional conferences. Internships are encouraged, especially if you are interested in careers in areas such as business management, government administration, labor relations, economic analysis, banking, and urban planning.

As a quantitative economics student, you are also encouraged to add a second major or a minor in mathematics, business, political science, international studies, sustainability, philosophy, psychology, or languages.

Required courses include the principles of macroeconomics and microeconomics; econometric analysis for social science; calculus; principles of statistics; analysis; linear algebra; microeconomics with calculus; discrete mathematics; differential equations; probability and statistics; and mathematical statistics. Your education will conclude with a senior research experience in economics.

Transfer Credit

Indiana State University accepts credit from regionally accredited colleges and universities within the United States, and from selected schools located outside the United States. Credit also may be granted for military training and experience. Previously earned college credit can be applied toward completion of the program per Indiana State's transfer guidelines.

Career Possibilities for Quantitative Economics Majors

Indiana State University’s Quantitative Economics BS provides excellent preparation for many careers that require a focus on critical thinking, data analysis, quantitative reasoning, and policy applications. The program prepares students for entry-level positions in government, business, health care administration, public policy, public administration, law, data science, and non-profit organizations.

Graduates may be employed as strategists, logistics managers, consultants, economic forecasters, cost analysts, business systems analysts, analytics consultants for insurance firms, and banking analysts. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects overall employment for economists to grow six percent from 2023 to 2033 with an average median salary at $115,730.

Many of our graduates also pursue advanced degree programs in business, economics, public policy, mathematics, law, and upper-level statistics and econometrics.

Middle-aged woman with shoulder-length brown hair looking at the camera wearing a white jacket with black stripes, and a black shirt.

Learn from This Expert

Economics instructor Katrina Babb is always evolving her classes and discussion topics. In the past, she has offered classes on environmental economics and related topics. She incorporates her research in economics into learning assignments.

“I do small surveys and assessments to gauge where students are with understanding the material, and they appreciate that the class is done in this fashion, instead of just a lecture. These aren’t easy concepts that we’re learning, and they appreciate that they get to use a more hands-on approach,” Babb comments.

Read Katrina Babb’s story.