Best Online Bachelor’s in Economics
Updated October 18, 2023
thebestschools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Are you ready to discover your college program?
A bachelor's degree in economics introduces degree-seekers to topics like economic financing, supply and demand, and economic decision-making.
An online economics degree prepares graduates for careers as actuaries, financial analysts, market research analysts, and operations research analysts. Many of these career paths pay above-average salaries and have strong job growth projections.
For example, professionals with bachelor's degrees in economics earn an average salary of over $70,000 per year, according to PayScale. They can also find work as economists — a field that reported a median annual salary of over $105,000 in 2019.
Our list ranks the top online bachelor's programs in economics to help prospective students find the best fit for their professional goals. This article also introduces economics concentrations, career paths, and earning potential for economics graduates.
The Best Online Bachelor's in Economics Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Economics
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida International University, a public institution in Miami, offers 36 competitive bachelor's programs. Distance learners interested in the economics field can enroll in the school's bachelor of arts in economics.
The program prepares enrollees for the demands of the field. Students work with their academic advisor to ensure their studies suit both academic and professional goals. Degree candidates can choose a minor and select electives as part of their curriculum.
Undergraduate students can expect to pay $16,529 in tuition. The accredited institution connects students with internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. The school averages financial aid packages of $8,958 per enrollee.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 39,863
Total Online Programs: 67
Online Bachelor's Programs: 36
Admission Rate: 58%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Economics
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
University Park, PA - 4 years
- Online
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus, located in University Park, enables distance learning across 207 online programs. This bachelor of science in economics is one of the school's 67 online bachelor's degrees. The program accommodates full- or part-time study.
Students complete industry-relevant classes throughout their studies, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the economics field. Degree-seekers also attend general education classes to gain a well-rounded education. Learners can individualize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
Bachelor's graduates can increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The institution reports a median salary of $43,600 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. Interested applicants can meet with department leaders to discuss application materials, admission requirements, and other relevant information.
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: Data not available
Total Online Programs: 207
Online Bachelor's Programs: 67
Admission Rate: 76%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Economics
Utah State University
Logan, UT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking competitive online study in economics should consider Utah State University's online bachelor's in economics. The program is one of the college's seven online bachelor's degrees. Students seeking to advance in the economics field may find this flexible program appealing.
Degree-seekers complete coursework relevant to the economics field, with the option to choose electives and modify coursework. Learners can also choose electives and pursue interdisciplinary study to fit career goals.
Undergraduate students pay approximately $21,087 in tuition. Economics students can access scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The average financial aid award per student at this college is $5,857.
Utah State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 13,952
Total Online Programs: 27
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 91%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Economics
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Fort Hays State University supports flexible distance learning opportunities across 40 online programs. The college offers 24 fully online bachelor's degrees, including a BBA in international business and economics. The degree appeals to students seeking to advance in the economics field. Enrollees benefit from flexible study, with the option to enroll full or part time.
Students complete industry-relevant classes throughout their studies, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the economics field. By working with their academic advisor, degree candidates can customize their studies through electives, minors, and concentration areas.
A bachelor's degree connects graduates with numerous job opportunities and a higher earning potential. Bachelor's degree-holders earn on average a median salary of $36,800 after six years. Undergraduate students eligible for financial aid can expect to pay $12,108 in tuition and fees, on average. Prospective applicants can meet with the economics department directly to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other relevant information.
Fort Hays State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,759
Total Online Programs: 40
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Admission Rate: 91%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Economics
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for a flexible bachelor's-level education should consider University of Utah. Located in Salt Lake City, the college supports seven remote bachelor's programs. Learners in the bachelor's in economics program prepare for the field through rigorous study.
Economics students can modify their coursework to suit their interests and accommodate their schedule. Students complete coursework relevant to the economics field, with the option to choose electives and modify coursework.
At present, undergraduates pay $26,017 in tuition. Distance learners at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs and other forms of aid. On average, learners receive$7,348 in financial aid.
University of Utah at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 11,058
Total Online Programs: 16
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 62%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Economics
Washington State University
Pullman, WA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Washington State University, located in Pullman, provides 20 top-tier bachelor's degrees, including an online bachelor's in economics.
Degree candidates complete coursework pertinent to the economics field. Students can collaborate with their academic advisor to find classes that complement their career interests. Enrollees can explore other educational opportunities, such as minors and elective courses, to customize their studies.
Undergraduate students pay approximately $24,531 in tuition. The accredited college connects students with internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. On average, enrollees receive $8,011 in financial aid.
Washington State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 6,592
Total Online Programs: 54
Online Bachelor's Programs: 20
Admission Rate: 76%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#7 Best Online Bachelor’s in Economics
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Oregon State University is a public college in Corvallis offering a variety of competitive bachelor's degrees. The school supports distancing learning across 22 remote bachelor's programs. The bachelor's in economics may appeal to students seeking to advance in the economics field.
The online program prioritizes flexibility. Students can collaborate with their academic advisor to find classes that complement their career interests. Degree-seekers can also choose a minor and select electives as part of their curriculum.
Undergraduates pay a tuition of $29,445 at the school. Enrollees can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The average financial aid award per student at this college is $7,288.
Oregon State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 14,977
Total Online Programs: 50
Online Bachelor's Programs: 22
Admission Rate: 82%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Economics
Eastern Oregon University
La Grande, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Eastern Oregon University, located in La Grande, enables distance learning across 23 online programs. Of its online programs, 18 offer an undergraduate-level education. One option includes a bachelor's in economics. The flexible program helps learners complete a college degree.
Degree candidates complete industry-relevant classes throughout their studies, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the economics field. Students can work with their academic advisor to individualize their degree by exploring electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
A bachelor's degree greatly increases one's earning potential. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $36,000, according to the college. The school reports that the average undergraduate pays $14,835 in tuition and fees yearly, after aid. Prospective applicants can explore funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and other opportunities by connecting with the Office of Financial Aid.
Eastern Oregon University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 2,078
Total Online Programs: 23
Online Bachelor's Programs: 18
Admission Rate: 98%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Economics
North Carolina A&T State University
Greensboro, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
North Carolina A&T State University enrolls distance learners in 12 programs. Undergraduates can choose from seven online bachelor's programs at the public institution in Greensboro. Learners can complete the bachelor of science in economics at their own pace. Enrollees benefit from flexible study, with the option to enroll full or part time.
Throughout the program, students attend industry-relevant lectures while completing economics-specific coursework. Degree-seekers can modify their studies, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
A bachelor's degree greatly increases one's earning potential. The institution reports that graduates six years out from their degree earn a median salary of $31,700. The average undergraduate pays $9,097 in tuition and fees yearly. Students interested in learning more about admission requirements and their eligibility for financial aid should contact the economics department.
North Carolina A&T State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 4,224
Total Online Programs: 12
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 58%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Economics
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Honolulu, HI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking competitive online study should consider University of Hawaii at Manoa. The public school supports two online bachelor's programs. The bachelor's in economics degree-completion program helps learners finish their degree.
The program balances rigor with flexibility, proving beneficial to working professionals, busy students, and other learners. Enrollees can modify their coursework by consulting with their academic advisor. Degree candidates can choose a minor and select electives as part of their curriculum.
Economics students can expect to pay $33,336 in tuition. While at the college, enrollees can explore funding opportunities to apply toward their studies. The college averages financial aid award packages of $7,850 per student.
University of Hawaii at Manoa at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,547
Total Online Programs: 7
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Admission Rate: 58%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
Online Bachelor's in Economics Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
-
Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
Featured Online Bachelor's in Economics Programs
What Is an Online Economics Degree?
Earning an economics degree strengthens analytical and problem-solving skills. Students complete complex assignments and projects that require economic analysis and forecasting, preparing them for many different careers.
During an economics degree, majors study economic decision-making, the role of public policy in the economy, and the evolution of financial markets. Some programs incorporate internships to help enrollees gain practical experience. Students may also specialize their coursework through concentrations or electives.
An online economics degree prioritizes flexibility and accessibility. At many schools, online learners complete the same curriculum as on-campus students. However, the distance learning format allows students to complete their coursework around work or personal responsibilities, which appeals to busy adults and working professionals seeking career advancement.
What's the Difference Between a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science?
Many colleges and universities offer both a bachelor of arts (BA) and a bachelor of science (BS) in economics. Generally, BA and BS programs require the same major coursework, but differ in terms of general education requirements. At most schools, BA students complete more humanities and social science courses, including a foreign language, while BS enrollees take more math and natural sciences classes.
BA and BS degrees in economics take around four years of full-time enrollment to complete. Majors in both options build strong analytical skills, which lead to job opportunities as economic researchers, financial analysts, and forecasters.
Choosing an Online Economics Program
When choosing an online economics degree, prospective students should consider factors such as cost, degree requirements, and program length. Applicants can also research whether schools offer accelerated courses, summer sessions, and economics concentrations. Learn more about how to choose an online degree with the links below.
What to Expect When Pursuing a Bachelor of Economics Online
During a bachelor of economics online program, undergraduates take courses in macroeconomics, microeconomics, and applied economics, building strong analytical and research skills. Many programs also offer concentrations. Online learners can usually complete internship requirements locally.
Economics Curriculum
- Macroeconomics: Macroeconomics studies economic systems on a large scale, including issues like economic output, financial growth, and employment. Students learn about fiscal policies, international economics, and government regulations.
- Microeconomics: Microeconomics courses consider the economic behavior of individuals and small groups, including topics like supply and demand, pricing, and behavioral economics.
- Financial Economics: In financial economics courses, students learn about financial systems and markets. They study national and international financial institutions while also learning about theories in financial economics.
- Public Economics: This course explores the impact of regulation on the economy and the interplay between the government, the financial markets, and private businesses.
- Labor and Industrial Organizations: Labor economics examines supply and demand issues, the role of taxes in markets, and the effects of minimum wage laws. Topics may also include income distribution, the impact of unemployment on labor markets, and public policy about labor.
Economics Concentrations
Behavioral Economics
Behavioral economics blends economics with psychology to understand how individuals and organizations make decisions. Students explore topics like optimal decision-making, rational choice theory, and how scarcity influences behavior. The concentration can lead to careers in risk analysis, market research analysis, and research.
Financial Economics
A financial economics specialization examines the distribution of resources, including the economic theory behind financial risk, opportunity costs, and financial incentives. Economics majors learn about forecasting and decision-making using uncertain information. The concentration prepares majors for careers in financial services.
Industrial Organization
The field of industrial organization explores strategic behavior in a corporate- or industry-scale context. Learners study the impact of market competition, regulatory policies, and other factors that influence firms' strategies. Graduates pursue careers in finance, tourism, and agriculture.
International Economics
Students examine the connections between the international economy and governmental policies, the role of international relations in the economy, and global policymaking. The concentration prepares graduates for careers in international business and research.
Public Policy
Coursework analyzes the links between policy and economic behavior. Students examine the influence of laws on individuals and organizations to prepare them for roles working in the public sector and in public policy firms.
Economics Organizations
Professional economics organizations can help students network and prepare to join the workforce. These organizations host conferences and events, offer professional development and career resources, and grant certifications.
Aspiring economists can join specialized organizations that align with their career goals, like the National Association for Business Economics, which emphasizes business economics. Similarly, the Global Association of Economics Education focuses on economic literacy for marginalized communities. Students can also benefit from the career resources offered by the American Economic Foundation.
Economics Careers
The quantitative analysis and critical thinking skills gained during online economics degrees help graduates in many different career paths. Professionals with economics degrees can find work as actuaries, financial risk analysts, economic researchers, and data analysts.
Many federal agencies hire economics majors for careers in data analysis and economic forecasting. Economics majors can also work in the financial services industry as analysts or in marketing as market researchers.
What Kind of a Salary Can I Earn With an Economics Degree?
An online economics degree prepares graduates for high-paying careers, including management consultant, financial analyst, or budget analyst. Economists earned a median salary of $105,020 in 2019. The information below highlights the highest-paying careers available for graduates with a bachelor's degree in economics.
Highest-Paying Careers With a Bachelor's Degree in Economics
| Career | Median Annual Salary (2019) |
|---|---|
| Compensation and Benefits Managers | $122,270 |
| Personal Financial Advisors | $87,850 |
| Management Analysts | $85,260 |
| Management Consultants | $85,260 |
| Financial Analysts | $81,590 |
| Financial Examiners | $81,090 |
| Budget Analysts | $76,540 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's in Economics
Can You Get an Economics Degree Online?
Yes. Many colleges and universities offer online economics degrees, including both bachelor's and master's programs in economics.
Which Is the Best Economics Degree?
A bachelor's degree in economics prepares graduates for entry-level careers as analysts, researchers, and forecasters. Some careers, including economist, require a master's degree.
Is an Economics Degree Hard?
Economics students need strong skills in math, finance, and statistics. An economics enrollee with strong analytical and logical thinking skills will thrive.
Is a Degree in Economics Worth It?
Earning an economics degree often pays off. According to PayScale, the average salary for professionals with bachelor's degrees in economics exceeds $70,000 per year.
What Can I Do With a BA in Economics?
An economics degree prepares graduates for careers like financial analyst, actuary, management consultant, and budget analyst. The federal government often hires economics graduates, as do private sector companies.
Learn more, do more.
More topic-relevant resources to expand your knowledge.
Popular with our students.
Highly informative resources to keep your education journey on track.
Take the next step toward your future with online learning.
Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.
