Is becoming an economist right for me?
The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:
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How to become an Economist
A master’s degree or Ph.D. is required for most economist jobs, but some entry-level jobs are available with a bachelor’s degree. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree qualify for some entry-level economist positions, including jobs with the federal government. Most who complete a bachelor’s degree in economics find jobs outside the economics profession as research assistants, financial analysts, market analysts, and similar positions in business and finance.
Positions in business, research, or international organizations often require a combination of advanced education and work experience. Students can pursue an advanced degree in economics with a bachelor’s degree in a number of fields, but a strong background in math is essential. A Ph.D. in economics requires several years of study after earning a bachelor's degree, including doing detailed research in a specialty field. Aspiring economists can gain valuable experience from internships that involve gathering and analyzing data, conducting interviews and surveys, and writing reports on their findings.