Thumbnail
Undergraduate

Economics

The Economics program at Assumption provides you with an understanding of the economic principles and the tools used to address global issues of production, consumption, and distribution

Study the Forces that Drive Markets, Policy, and People

An economics degree from Assumption University prepares students to analyze how markets, governments, and business and non-profit organizations shape the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. Students develop a strong foundation in economic theory, data analysis, and critical thinking while exploring solutions to real-world challenges such as inequality, climate change, inflation, healthcare access, and global development.

Assumption offers multiple academic pathways in economics:

  • Major in Economics
  • Major in Economics with a Business Concentration
  • Minor in Economics
  • Minor in Law and the Economy

This flexibility allows students to customize their education based on career goals, academic interests, and graduate school plans.


Why Major in Economics at Assumption University?

The Economics program at Assumption University blends rigorous coursework with practical, career-ready skills. Students learn how economists use data and theory to analyze issues such as unemployment, wage inequality, international trade, and financial markets. Rooted in a Catholic liberal arts tradition, the program also invites students to consider how economic choices shape society, opportunity, and the common good—linking data to purpose and policy to people.

As an economics major, you will:

  • Examine the strengths and limits of competitive markets.
  • Analyze the role of government in improving material well-being.
  • Explore economic inequality, sustainability, and development.
  • Gain hands-on experience with econometrics and data analysis.
  • Benefit from the Economics major being housed in the department of Accounting, Economics and Finance, allowing students to double/triple major/minor or find other ways to combine knowledge and skills from these three related disciplines.

The economics major is highly flexible and easily paired with minors in management, marketing, political science, mathematics, or other disciplines, making it ideal for students with interdisciplinary interests.


Quantitative & Analytical Skills Employers Value

An economics degree is one of the most versatile and highest-earning undergraduate majors in the United States. At Assumption, the program emphasizes the skills employers consistently seek:

  • Quantitative and statistical analysis
  • Data interpretation and econometrics
  • Deductive and logical reasoning
  • Research and evidence-based decision-making
  • Written and oral communication

Students interested in analytics can pursue advanced coursework in econometrics, sports economics, and applied data analysis, preparing them for data-driven careers in business, finance, and public policy.



Economics Program Options

Major in Economics

Provides a strong foundation for careers in economics, analytics, government, consulting, and graduate study.

Major in Economics with a Business Concentration

Combines advanced economics coursework with classes in management, marketing, and accounting, equipping students to apply economic reasoning in corporate and other organizational settings.

Minors in Economics & Law and the Economy

Excellent complements to majors in business, political science, history, pre-law, and the social sciences.


Careers with an Economics Degree

Graduates of Assumption University’s Economics program pursue successful careers across a wide range of industries and sectors, including:

  • Data analytics and business intelligence
  • Finance, banking, and insurance
  • Real estate and consulting
  • Corporate strategy and management
  • Local, state, and federal government
  • Public policy and nonprofit leadership

Many alumni also continue on to graduate programs in economics, public policy, international development, and related fields.


Program Contact

Smriti Rao, Ph.D

Department Chair, Economics, Finance and Accounting, Professor of Economics
508-767-7565 Tsotsis Family Academic Center - Room 229

Program Curriculum

  • First Year

    ECO 110 Principles of Microeconomics
    ECO 111 Principles of Macroeconomics
    MAT 117 Calculus

    Sophomore Year

    Economics Elective
    ECO 115 Statistics with Excel

    Junior Year

    ECO 215 Econometrics
    ECO 310 Microeconomic Theory
    ECO 311 Macroeconomic Theory
    Economics Elective

    Senior Year

    Economics Elective (2)
    ECO 499 Research Seminar

    * This is only a suggested sequence. Students should try to finish the courses listed above under first and sophomore year by the end of their sophomore year.

    Course Descriptions

  • First Year

    ECO110 Principles of Microeconomics
    ECO111 Principles of Macroeconomics
    MAT 117 Calculus

    Sophomore Year

    ECO 115 Statistics with Excel
    ACC 125 Principles of Accounting I
    ACC 126 Principles of Accounting II
    MGT 100 or MKT 100
    Business Concentration Economics Elective

    Junior Year

    ECO 215 Econometrics
    ECO 310 Microeconomic Theory
    Business Concentration Economics Elective
    FIN 325 Financial Management 1
    ECO 311 Macroeconomic Theory

    Senior Year

    Business Concentration Economics Elective
    ECO 499 Research Seminar

    Course Descriptions

  • Minor in Economics

    ECO 110 Principles of Microeconomics
    ECO 111 Principles of Macroeconomics
    ECO 115 Statistics with Excel
    ECO 310/ECO 311 Microeconomic Theory/Macroeconomic Theory

    Three economics electives at the 200 level or above selected in consultation with an Economics Department Advisor.

    Course Descriptions

  • Minor in Law and the Economy

    ECO 110 Principles of Microeconomics
    ECO 111 Principles of Macroeconomics
    ECO 230 Law and Economics
    ECO 331 Industrial Organization
    PHI 260 Business Ethics

    Plus One of the Following Courses

    POL 316 Constitutional Law
    POL 321 Public Policy
    GEO 251 Economic Geography
    GEO 252 Land Use Geography and Planning Law

    Course Descriptions

  • Learning Goals

    • Develop an understanding of the basic principles, concepts, and theories of Economics
    • Retrieve economic information
    • Become skillful at the use of economic data using appropriate disciplinary methodology
    • Perfect the ability to apply economic knowledge to critically analyze problems and their potential solutions
    • Possess effective written and oral communication skills

Faculty Expertise & Personalized Learning

Faculty research spans areas such as: Sports economics • Economics of education • Feminist economics • Economic development • International trade and finance • Inferential statistics

Colleen A. Fahy, Ph.D
Professor of Economics
Demetrius Kantarelis, Ph.D
Professor of Economics
Smriti Rao, Ph.D
Department Chair, Economics, Finance and Accounting Professor of Economics
Brian Volz, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Economics
Thomas White, Ph.D.
Professor of Economics
Olivia Wu, Ph.D., CFA
Assistant Professor of Finance

Experiential Learning

Assumption's Rome Campus

At Assumption's campus in Rome, Italy, the city and the country become your classroom through daily and weekend-long excursions throughout "the eternal city" and the Italian countryside. This unique study abroad experience will enrich your academic and cultural pursuits as you walk in the footsteps of emperors and gladiators then enjoy delectable Italian cuisine or perhaps a cappuccino after class in a local cafe. (Did you know that your financial aid follows you to Rome?)

Explore the Rome Campus

Learn the Skills Employers Seek

Faculty/Student Research

The Assumption curriculum encourages scholarly and real-world experience. With hands-on research conducted alongside faculty mentors, students gain a depth of knowledge and skills that lead to professional success and personal fulfillment.

Study Abroad

At Assumption University, the world is your classroom. Students can study and explore abroad in over 50 places from Vienna to England, South Africa, and even our own campus in historic, yet modern, Rome, Italy. Assumption’s study abroad program offers culture, history, and a living classroom for all.

Internships

Assumption starts planning for your future the day you arrive on campus. The Denecker Career Development & Internship Center helps students secure exciting and fulfilling internships where you’ll apply knowledge obtained in the classroom in a professional setting, preparing for a future career or additional study. Assumption connects students to internship opportunities in corporations, government agencies, research hospitals, non-profit organizations, and more. While internships are not required, many students complete at least one before graduation. Recent economics majors have interned at financial instructions such as Fidelity Investments, at research institutions such as the Worcester Regional Research Bureau and with political organizations such as Congressman Jim McGovern’s office.


Career Paths

Bain Capital

Berkshire Bank

Fidelity Investments

Hanover Insurance

Lockheed Martin

Office of U.S. Senator Krysten Sinema

See Assumption University In Person

From our state-of-the-art academic buildings and exceptional academic programs to our welcoming and supportive community, Assumption isn't just a university - it's the place you can call home. Visit us and see why.


Assumption is dedicated to providing a clear understanding of what your education will cost

We’ll help cut through the complexity of financing your education, ensuring you understand what you need, how to apply for aid, and what’s expected of you. You will be assigned a personal financial aid advisor who will guide you through the process and answer all of your financial aid-related questions.


Finding Their Futures in Finance: Two Alumni Share How Assumption Led Them to Success


Programs Related to Economics

Accounting

Undergraduate

Finance

Undergraduate