B.A. in Economics

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Economics program at Nebraska Wesleyan University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of economic theories, policies, and analytical tools. Rooted in a rigorous curriculum, this program equips students with the skills needed to analyze economic trends, make informed decisions, and understand the intricate connections between economics and society. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical applications, preparing students for diverse career paths in economics, finance, public policy, and beyond. Experiential learning opportunities, research projects, and internships enhance the program, providing students with real-world insights. With a focus on critical thinking, quantitative analysis, and effective communication, graduates of the B.A. in Economics program are well-prepared for success in a rapidly changing global economy.

Curriculum:

1. Foundational Economic Principles: The program delves into foundational economic principles, ensuring students have a solid understanding of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and economic theories that form the basis of economic analysis.

2. Quantitative and Analytical Skills: A key focus is on developing quantitative and analytical skills, enabling students to interpret economic data, conduct statistical analysis, and make evidence-based decisions.

3. Applied Economics: The curriculum goes beyond theory, emphasizing applied economics to equip students with the ability to address real-world economic challenges and contribute meaningfully to policy discussions.

4. Experiential Learning Opportunities: The program integrates experiential learning opportunities, including internships, research projects, and case studies, allowing students to apply economic theories in practical settings and gain hands-on experience.

5. Policy Analysis and Decision-Making: Students learn the art of policy analysis, understanding how economic principles influence decision-making processes in various sectors, including government, business, and international organizations.

6. Global Perspective: Recognizing the global nature of economics, the program incorporates a global perspective, preparing students to understand and analyze economic issues on an international scale.

7. Communication Skills: Effective communication is emphasized, ensuring graduates can convey economic concepts, trends, and policy recommendations clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.

8. Economic Research: Students engage in economic research, honing their ability to conduct independent research, analyze economic phenomena, and contribute to the academic discourse in economics.

9. Internship Opportunities: The program facilitates internship opportunities with businesses, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, allowing students to gain practical experience and build professional networks.

10. Preparation for Diverse Careers: Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in economics, finance, banking, research institutions, government agencies, international organizations, and other sectors where economic expertise is valued.

Entry Requirements at Nebraska Wesleyan University for Undergraduate admissions

1. Academic Qualifications: NWU evaluates applicants based on their academic qualifications, which typically constitute a significant portion of the admission criteria. While specific percentage requirements may vary by program, a strong emphasis is placed on academic performance. Prospective students are encouraged to demonstrate a solid academic foundation through their previous coursework and achievements.

2. English Language Proficiency: International applicants are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language to ensure success in their academic endeavors. NWU accepts the following minimum scores for English language proficiency:

   • IELTS: The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.5 is the minimum accepted level.  

   • TOEFL iBT:  The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) internet-based test with a minimum score of 71 is accepted.  

3. SAT or ACT(recommended):

   • SAT : SAT scores of 1020 (reading+math).

   • ACT : ACT score 20 (composite) or above.

Nebraska Wesleyan University demonstrates its commitment to global education by offering a range of scholarships to international students. These financial aid opportunities not only recognize academic excellence and talent but also contribute to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community.

Global Leaders Scholarship: NWU offers the Global Leaders Scholarship to international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements, leadership skills, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. This competitive scholarship is designed to attract high-achieving students from around the world.

International Diversity Scholarship: The International Diversity Scholarship is aimed at promoting a diverse and inclusive campus environment. It is awarded to international students who contribute to the cultural richness of the university community. This scholarship recognizes the value of diverse perspectives and experiences in fostering a global learning environment.

Merit-Based Scholarships: Nebraska Wesleyan University provides merit-based scholarships to international students based on their academic excellence and achievements. These scholarships consider factors such as GPA, standardized test scores, and extracurricular involvement. Merit-based awards help recognize and reward outstanding academic performance.

Performing Arts Scholarships: NWU encourages international students with a passion for the performing arts to apply for scholarships in music, theatre, and dance. These scholarships are awarded based on talent, artistic achievements, and potential contributions to the university's vibrant arts community.

Athletic Scholarships: For international students with exceptional athletic abilities, NWU offers athletic scholarships. These awards are available in various sports and recognize the dedication and talent of student-athletes. Prospective athletes are encouraged to contact the athletic department for specific information on eligibility and application processes.

Graduates with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Economics from Nebraska Wesleyan University are well-prepared for diverse and impactful career paths, leveraging their strong analytical skills and deep understanding of economic principles. The program's emphasis on applied economics, quantitative analysis, and global perspectives equips graduates for a wide range of opportunities in various sectors. Nebraska Wesleyan University's B.A. in Economics program provides a versatile foundation for graduates, enabling them to thrive in a multitude of professions where economic expertise is essential.

1. Economist: Graduates can pursue careers as economists, conducting economic research, analyzing data, and providing insights to inform policy decisions in government, research institutions, or private organizations.

2. Financial Analyst: Opportunities exist as financial analysts, where graduates can analyze financial data, evaluate investment opportunities, and provide recommendations for individuals, businesses, or financial institutions.

3. Policy Analyst: Graduates can become policy analysts, contributing to the development and evaluation of economic policies in government agencies, think tanks, and advocacy organizations.

4. Market Research Analyst: Careers in market research involve analyzing consumer trends, conducting surveys, and providing valuable insights to businesses to inform marketing and strategic decision-making.

5. Investment Banking Analyst: Graduates can explore roles in investment banking, working on financial transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and providing financial advisory services to corporations.

6. Data Analyst: The analytical skills developed in the program make graduates well-suited for roles as data analysts, where they can interpret and analyze large sets of data to inform business strategies.

7. International Trade Specialist: With a global perspective, graduates can pursue careers as international trade specialists, facilitating and managing economic exchanges between countries and organizations.

8. Financial Planner/Advisor: Graduates can work as financial planners or advisors, helping individuals and businesses make sound financial decisions, plan for the future, and navigate economic uncertainties.

9. Government Economist: Careers in government agencies involve providing economic expertise to inform public policies, regulations, and programs at the local, state, or federal levels.

10. Corporate Analyst: Graduates can become corporate analysts, working within organizations to analyze financial performance, identify cost-saving opportunities, and contribute to strategic decision-making.

11. Nonprofit Sector Roles: Opportunities exist in the nonprofit sector, where graduates can apply economic principles to address social issues, manage programs, and contribute to organizational sustainability.

12. Business Consultant: Graduates can work as business consultants, advising companies on economic trends, market dynamics, and strategies to improve efficiency and competitiveness.

13. Risk Analyst: Careers as risk analysts involve assessing and managing financial risks for organizations, ensuring they make informed decisions to safeguard against economic uncertainties.

14. Entrepreneurship: Graduates can pursue entrepreneurship, leveraging their economic knowledge to start and manage their own businesses, identifying market opportunities and navigating economic challenges.

15. Academic and Research Positions: The program prepares graduates for academic and research positions, pursuing advanced degrees and contributing to economic research and education.