The need for economists is growing rapidly as businesses foundations and governments try to understand and analyze current trends and problems. The undergraduate with a degree in economics has a wide range of options in business, government and education. Economists work in practically all industries analyzing trends and helping executives understand and find solutions to current problems. The economics graduate can work in consulting, sales, manufacturing, health care, communications, real estate, and with public interests groups or foundations. For example, the banking industry needs economists to predict interest rate and foreign exchange movements.
Economists can offer insights into the problems associated with escalating health care costs.
Government uses economists to collect statistics, analyze the impact of legislation, and provide policy options. Economics is also a strong preparation for graduate school in virtually any of the social sciences, but especially in business or law. Careers in Public Policy Economics Strong demand exists in both the public and private sectors for the skills that are the core of the public policy program. Career opportunities are available in industries which are regulated such as telecommunication, pharmaceutical and food industries. Additionally, positions can be found with consulting firms specializing in understanding and advising on public policy enforcement and with the large and growing nonprofit sector which attempts to influence policy through lobbying, advertising and public relations activities.