Economics graduates are considered generalists who are well-trained in analytical thinking. Majoring in economics is a spring-board to a very wide variety of careers, not only in businesses, but also in government agencies and not-for-profit organizations. A major in economics is also excellent preparation for graduate study toward master's and doctoral degrees in economics, business, public administration, urban studies, international studies, marine affairs and other fields. Furthermore, even many law schools encourage prospective students to consider majoring in economics as undergraduates.
Program Highlights
-
At Old Dominion University students will be able to take courses in micro-economics, macroeconomics, development economics, natural resource and environmental economics, international economics, labor economics, transportation economics, urban economics, and more
-
Students may be able to undertake independent study in a particular area of economics that interests you, under the supervision of a faculty member
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Home Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Teach courses in childcare, family relations, finance, nutrition, and related subjects pertaining to home management. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Economists
Conduct research, prepare reports, or formulate plans to address economic problems related to the production and distribution of goods and services or monetary and fiscal policy. May collect and process economic and statistical data using sampling techniques and econometric methods.
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Teach courses in economics. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Environmental Economists
Conduct economic analysis related to environmental protection and use of the natural environment, such as water, air, land, and renewable energy resources. Evaluate and quantify benefits, costs, incentives, and impacts of alternative options using economic principles and statistical techniques.
Requirements
-
Completed all lower-level general education requirements
-
Completed at least 24 credit hours at ODU with a GPA of at least 3.0
-
A minimum index of 1200 (index is computed as 200 times the ODU GPA plus GMAT score)
Transfer
At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...
Featured Courses
Develops methods of microeconomic analysis beyond the principles level. Major emphasis is placed on consumer behavior and demand, production and cost, market organization, distribution theory, and welfare theory. Prerequisites: MATH 200 or equivalent and a graded of C or better in ECON 202S, along with a declared major in the University or permission of the Dean's Office.
Provides an overall 'big picture' of the economy, focusing on the central problems of unemployment, inflation, the business cycle, and economic growth. Important issues include national income accounting, fiscal policy, monetary policy, the money supply, the money market, interest rates, saving rates, labor markets, productivity, budget surpluses/deficits, trade deficits, and exchange rates. Prerequisites: MATH 162M or equivalent, and a grade of C or better in ECON 201S and ECON 202S, along with a declared major at the University or permission of the Dean's Office.
This course is part of the Day One Access program; you should not purchase any course materials denoted by the Day One Access logo as they are part of your course registration. In the event you drop this course from your schedule on or prior to the last day of DROP/ADD period, your account will be fully refunded automatically if you received a digital textbook. If you received a physical textbook you will need to return the textbook to the store and your account will be refunded at that time.
Cost
Estimated rates for the 2024-25 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Other fees are assessed for special services and certain academic programs. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial Aid.
Contact

Additional Programs
Are there other programs at ODU I may be interested in?
With over 120 undergraduate programs, 130 graduate programs at the master's, education specialist and doctoral levels plus a wealth of certificate and professional development programs, Old Dominion University has the program for you. Visit our academic program listing page to see other programs ODU has to offer.