17 tips for economics majors who are mapping their careers

Career mapping is the process of strategically planning your professional journey by identifying potential career paths, the skills you’ll need, and the steps to reach your long-term goals. For economics majors, career mapping is especially valuable because the field offers diverse opportunities in finance, policy, data analysis, and business strategy. Without a clear plan, it’s easy to get lost in the many potential career directions.

With an economics degree, you might start in roles like economic analyst, financial analyst, market researcher, or policy advisor. If you enjoy working with data, careers in econometrics, data science, or actuarial science could be a great fit. Those interested in government or public policy might work for think tanks, international organizations, or regulatory agencies. Economics majors also excel in corporate strategy, management consulting, and investment banking. Advanced degrees, such as a master’s or Ph.D. in economics or an MBA, can open doors to roles like chief economist, policy director, or university professor. Career mapping helps you determine the best path based on your strengths and interests, ensuring that you gain the right skills, certifications, and experiences to advance. It’s not just about studying markets—it’s about using economic principles to drive real-world impact.

We recently reached out to 17 career experts to ask them for their tips for those who are working toward a economics major or have already graduated with a economics degree.

• Internship in Business Development or Market Analysis
• Junior Financial Analyst at a Credit Union
• Financial Analyst for Real-World Decision Making
• Research Assistant in Economics Department
• Financial Planning Assistant or Junior Financial Analyst
• Credit Analyst in Banking or Corporate Finance
• Economic Consultant for Sustainable Development
• Corporate Strategy Analyst for Business Environment
• Digital Currency Researcher for Blockchain Economics
• Microfinance Intern for Financial Inclusion
• Pricing Analyst for Small or Mid-Sized Company
• Tech Startup Financial Strategist
• Bookkeeper or Junior Accountant for Small Firm
• Competitive Intelligence Research for Business Strategy
• Economist for Auction Houses
• Real Estate Market Researcher

Internship in Business Development or Market Analysis

A well-suited job for a college or university student majoring in Economics is an internship or part-time role in business development or market analysis. With a background in Economics, students possess strong analytical and critical thinking skills, which are invaluable when identifying market trends and opportunities. My own career trajectory, transitioning from Business Development Director to CEO, demonstrates how such roles can lay a solid foundation for understanding markets and driving growth.

These positions offer hands-on experience in applying economic principles to real-world scenarios, such as sales strategies or profitability assessments. Working in business development also encourages communication and leadership skills by engaging with clients and implementing strategies. From personal experience, this type of role can be a gateway to mastering the dynamics of both the domestic and international markets. For ambitious students, this path offers a blend of practical learning and professional growth, paving the way for exciting future opportunities.

Ace Zhuo, CEO | Sales and Marketing, Tech & Finance Expert, TradingFXVPS

Junior Financial Analyst at a Credit Union

I discovered that working as a Junior Financial Analyst at a local credit union was incredibly rewarding during my economics studies. I started by helping analyze loan applications and creating basic financial models, which directly connected to what I was learning about interest rates and risk assessment. The hands-on experience with Excel and financial software made my résumé stand out, plus I got to earn while learning about real-world banking operations.

Adam Garcia, Founder, The Stock Dork

Financial Analyst for Real-World Decision Making

A job well-suited for a college or university student majoring in economics is a financial analyst, which provides real-world decision-making experience. Think of a high school student who is good at managing their budget, tracking how much they spend on food, entertainment, and school supplies to ensure they don’t run out of money before the month ends.

A financial analyst does something similar but on a larger scale, helping businesses or investment firms assess financial statements, market trends, and potential risks.

For example, while working as an intern, a student might be tasked with analyzing sales data to determine why a company’s revenue dipped in the last quarter. By applying their economics knowledge, they can suggest strategies to improve profitability.

This job is valuable because it teaches students how to use economic principles in real-world decision-making, giving them a competitive edge when they graduate. An excellent solution for students seeking experience is to pursue internships at banks where they can get hands-on exposure to financial forecasting and business strategy.

Working as a financial analyst, the economics major builds practical skills, strengthens their resume, and gains insights that can open doors to future career opportunities in finance or business management.

Nathan Barz, Financial Advisor, Management Expert, Founder and CEO, DocVA

Research Assistant in Economics Department

I think working as a Research Assistant for a professor in the Economics department is particularly well-suited for Economics majors. This role allows students to apply theoretical concepts from their coursework to real research projects while developing valuable skills in data analysis, statistical software, and academic writing. It’s also typically flexible enough to work around class schedules and often provides opportunities to contribute to published research papers, which can be valuable for graduate school applications or future careers in economic research and consulting.

Inge Von Aulock, Investor & Chief Financial Officer, Invested Mom

Financial Planning Assistant or Junior Financial Analyst

A Financial Planning Assistant or Junior Financial Analyst position is perfect for Economics majors still in college. These roles are part-time or flexible so you can work around your class schedule and get hands-on experience applying economic theories to real life.

These roles usually involve helping senior financial planners with basic market research, data analysis, and creating financial reports or presentations. You will use your knowledge of economic principles, statistics, and analytical skills while learning the practical side of financial planning and investment management. Many firms also offer training programs and mentoring opportunities, which can be huge for career development.

Plus, these roles pay more than typical student jobs with entry-level salaries ranging from $18-25 per hour. Many firms also offer intern-to-hire programs so you can transition into a full-time role after graduation.

Loretta Kilday, DebtCC Spokesperson, Debt Consolidation Care

Credit Analyst in Banking or Corporate Finance

A credit analyst position is an excellent choice for economics majors who are interested in banking, lending, or corporate finance, as it directly applies the analytical and financial skills gained during their studies. This role primarily focuses on evaluating loan applications, assessing credit risks, and analyzing financial statements to determine a borrower’s creditworthiness. Credit analysts play a crucial role in financial institutions by helping lenders make informed decisions that minimize risk while ensuring profitability.

Economics students are well-equipped for this position because they possess strong quantitative analysis skills, a solid understanding of economic indicators, and expertise in risk assessment. Their ability to analyze market trends, interest rate fluctuations, and macroeconomic conditions allows them to make well-informed credit evaluations. Additionally, the ability to interpret financial ratios, balance sheets, and income statements makes economics graduates particularly valuable in this field.

To excel in this role, students should gain proficiency in financial modeling, credit rating systems, and industry-standard tools like Excel, Bloomberg Terminal, or SQL for data management. Many financial institutions also use specialized risk assessment software, so familiarity with these platforms can enhance job prospects.

A credit analyst role provides a strong foundation for long-term career growth, often serving as a stepping stone to positions in commercial banking, investment banking, financial consulting, or regulatory agencies. With experience, professionals can advance into roles such as senior credit analyst, portfolio manager, or risk manager, making this an excellent career path for economics students looking to develop expertise in financial decision-making.

Jonathan Orze, CFO, Ingeniusprep

Economic Consultant for Sustainable Development

If you’re studying economics, a great job to consider is working as an economic consultant for a sustainable development organization. You’d get to use your economic skills to assess the impact of projects like renewable energy or sustainable farming. It’s a chance to apply what you’re learning in class to real-world challenges and contribute to efforts that benefit the environment and society. It’s a role where you can really see how your work can drive positive change, not just numbers on a spreadsheet.

The job is hands-on and offers a unique perspective. You’ll analyze data, create recommendations, and work alongside experts from different fields like environmental science and policy. It’s a great way to build experience and apply your economics knowledge in a way that can directly impact projects that make the world a better place. It’s a rewarding path, especially if you’re passionate about sustainability and want to see how economics can contribute to shaping the future.

Shaun Bettman, Chief Executive Officer, Eden Emerald Mortgages

Corporate Strategy Analyst for Business Environment

A Corporate Strategy Analyst is an excellent role for a college or university student majoring in economics because it allows them to apply their analytical and strategic thinking skills in a real-world business environment. This role primarily involves helping companies make data-driven decisions by analyzing market trends, evaluating competitive positioning, and identifying opportunities for growth. Economics students are particularly well-suited for this job because they have a strong foundation in game theory, market structures, and financial analysis, all of which are crucial in understanding how businesses operate within competitive industries.

One of the key responsibilities of a corporate strategy analyst is to assess the financial and operational performance of a company and determine where improvements can be made to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and maximize profitability. By leveraging economic principles, analysts can help businesses navigate economic fluctuations, optimize pricing strategies, and allocate resources effectively. Additionally, they play a vital role in evaluating potential mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships, ensuring that strategic decisions align with long-term financial goals.

This position provides valuable exposure to high-level business decision-making and strategic planning, making it an ideal stepping stone for a career in management consulting, investment banking, or corporate finance. Working as a corporate strategy analyst allows economics majors to develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and financial modeling expertise, all of which are essential for advancing into leadership roles in business.

Brian Chasin, Chief Financial Officer, SOBA New Jersey

Digital Currency Researcher for Blockchain Economics

For an economics student who wants to learn about the latest developments in finance, a position as a Digital Currency Researcher is an interesting fit. 

You will delve deeply into blockchain economics and cryptocurrency trends, studying data to comprehend market movements and the expanding influence of decentralized finance. Economic modeling and forecasting abilities, which are crucial in the quickly changing world of digital assets, are developed in this function. 

Additionally, you will remain informed on the latest developments and laws influencing the cryptocurrency industry. It’s a dynamic position that provides practical experience as well as insight into the direction of international finance.

Jeffrey Zhou, CEO & Founder, Fig Loans

Microfinance Intern for Financial Inclusion

A Microfinance Intern role is an incredible opportunity for Economics students to apply their knowledge in a meaningful way. You’ll analyze loan data, repayment trends, and customer behavior to help improve financial inclusion strategies for underserved communities. It’s a hands-on experience that deepens your understanding of risk assessment and lending models while contributing to life-changing small loans. More importantly, you’ll gain valuable insight into the inner workings of microfinance institutions, preparing you for a future in finance or social impact. This position offers both professional growth and the satisfaction of making a positive difference in people’s lives.

Shawn Plummer, CEO, The Annuity Expert

Pricing Analyst for Small or Mid-Sized Company

If someone studying economics wants to get ahead in the job market, they should consider working as a pricing analyst for a small or mid-sized company. Most people think about finance or consulting when they major in economics, but pricing strategy is an underrated field that directly affects a company’s revenue and competitiveness. Businesses in retail, manufacturing, and even service industries need people who can analyze market trends, customer behavior, and production costs to figure out the best price for their products.

Companies lose money when they price their products too high or too low. A pricing analyst helps prevent that by studying supply and demand, running financial models, and understanding customer psychology. This work gives students experience with data analysis, business strategy, and decision-making, all of which are valuable skills in any industry. Because pricing directly impacts profits, companies are always looking for employees who can help them improve it.

Students who take on pricing-related roles increase their chances of getting hired after graduation. Data shows that nearly 90% of businesses believe pricing strategy is more important now than it was five years ago, and companies that actively invest in pricing improvements see their profits rise by 2 to 7%. That means there is a growing demand for people who understand how to set the right price in different market conditions. With experience in pricing analysis, graduates can move into roles in revenue management, financial planning, or corporate strategy, giving them a strong career path beyond their first job.

Gal Cohen, Business Development Leader & Field Area Manager, JDM Sliding Doors

Tech Startup Financial Strategist

Working as a Tech Startup Financial Strategist is a brilliant way for Economics majors to gain practical experience. Building financial models and assessing market entry strategies will be your main tasks as you learn how startups deal with opportunities and challenges. It’s a fast-paced position that sharpens your forecasting and decision-making skills. In addition, you will see immediately how your efforts can contribute to the success of a growing business.

Gary Hemming, Owner & Finance Director, ABC Finance

Bookkeeper or Junior Accountant for Small Firm

Working as a bookkeeper or junior accountant for a small firm or even a startup. It’s not the flashiest job, but it’s a solid experience. Econ majors usually have a good grasp of financial principles, and this is the kind of role that really lets them apply that knowledge in a practical way. Plus, it’s a foot in the door for understanding how businesses operate financially, which is a skill that’ll serve them well no matter where they end up.

Paul Carlson, CPA & Managing Partner, Law Firm Velocity

Competitive Intelligence Research for Business Strategy

Competitive intelligence research is a great job for an economics student because it applies analytical skills in a way that directly impacts business strategy. Companies constantly need to understand their market position, pricing trends, and competitor behavior, and economics students are trained to interpret data patterns that reveal these insights. A student in this role would track industry trends, analyze pricing models, and evaluate shifts in consumer demand, all of which tie back to core economic principles. This work is valuable across industries, from finance to e-commerce, making it a strong foundation for future career opportunities.

What makes this role ideal for students is the ability to work with real-world data while developing skills in business analysis and forecasting. Many companies, especially in digital marketing and consulting, hire part-time researchers to compile competitive reports, offering flexible schedules that fit around coursework. Since much of the work involves identifying trends and drawing actionable conclusions, it gives students practical experience that goes beyond theory, preparing them for roles in market analysis, business strategy, or financial consulting after graduation.

Sean Clancy, Managing Director, SEO Gold Coast

Economist for Auction Houses

Auction houses need economists. Pricing rare art, collectibles, or even real estate requires a deep understanding of market demand, scarcity, and behavioral economics. Students with a knack for data can analyze bidding patterns, forecast market trends, and help determine starting prices. Every sale is a real-world experiment in supply and demand. Watching human psychology play out in real-time beats any classroom lecture. Honestly, breaking into this world early turns abstract theory into high-stakes decision-making.

Nathan Mathews, CEO and Founder, Roofer

Real Estate Market Researcher

A college student majoring in Economics would do exceptionally well as a real estate market researcher. The job revolves around diving into the numbers, spotting trends, and predicting the ebb and flow of the property market. This type of work is a perfect match for an Economics major who has a keen eye for data and enjoys making sense of complex financial patterns. They’d be able to analyze market forces and economic shifts, giving them the power to forecast which neighborhoods are on the rise or where demand is cooling off.

In real estate, their insights could shape investment strategies and guide developers to make smarter decisions. They’d be helping clients and companies make sense of fluctuating housing prices, rental yields, and shifting economic landscapes. It’s a job that requires more than just technical knowledge—it’s about connecting the dots between theory and real-world trends. For a student eager to blend numbers with a bit of creativity, real estate offers an exciting, hands-on way to apply their Economics degree in a field that’s always evolving.

Betsy Pepine, Owner and Real Estate Broker, Pepine Realty