Department of Economics

Economics is a social science that studies the interactions of individuals, firms and governments.

Businesses and organizations across many industries are increasingly reliant on economic analysis and quantitative methods. A degree in economics from UW-Whitewater can lead to high-paying careers in the private and public sectors, including analyst positions as well as careers in sales, forecasting, urban planning, public policy, consulting and research. It is also valuable as a major or minor for those planning to pursue further professional or graduate training in business administration, industrial and labor relations, international relations, law, and public policy and administration. 

The Economics Department offers three degree programs; a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) through the College of Business and Economics, a Bachelor of Art or Science (BA/BS) from the College of Letters and Sciences, and a Bachelor of Science in Education (BSE) from the College of Education. The department also offers a number of courses for graduate students looking to continue their education in pursuit of a Master of Business Administration, and several faculties are part of the Doctorate of Business Administration program.

What is Economics?

Mission

The mission of the Department of Economics at UW-Whitewater is to foster knowledge through high quality research conducted by our faculty and to convey that knowledge to students through undergraduate and graduate programs. As such, the Department of Economics strives to achieve excellence in research, teaching and service. By doing so, we aim to grow into an undergraduate economics program that is unrivaled within the state of Wisconsin.

Our mission:

  • In regard to teaching, we wish to provide our students with the skills and tools needed to enable them to be successful in their chosen careers. As such, we aim to create an academic experience that lays the foundation for their success. By providing quality education at both the undergraduate and graduate level, we hope to prepare them for advanced studies as well as other chosen careers.
  • In regard to research, we wish to create an environment that will enable our faculty to maintain an active and diverse research agenda. By doing so, we seek to attract and retain high quality faculty to the Department. In addition, we aim to allow faculty to lend their expertise to regional, national and international interests, and outreach.
  • Through service, we aim to foster collegiality, community and outreach, from within the University and beyond. Through these key channels, we aim to advance the reputation of the Department and that of the College of Business and Economics, and the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.

Economics Research at UW-Whitewater

In addition to faculty that are active in research, many of our students engage in research through the Fiscal and Economic Research Center and the Undergraduate Research Program at UW-Whitewater. Other students pursue undergraduate research projects through an independent study course for credit (ECON 498), working under the mentorship of a faculty member.

More Information About Economics

Economists investigate social questions and issues such as efficiency, resource allocation, inflation, unemployment, optimal policy, growth, discrimination, pollution and poverty, among others. In investigating these kinds of problems, an economist typically does many of the following activities:

  • Research and analyze issues and problems
  • Conduct surveys and collect data
  • Analyze data using mathematical models and statistical techniques, often using advanced computational techniques
  • Prepare reports, tables and charts that present research results
  • Interpret and forecast market trends
  • Advise businesses, governments and individuals on market conditions
  • Design policies or make recommendations for solving economic problems

Student Development

Along with experiential learning through student organizations and paid internships, students can have experiential learning opportunities, including those available through the Fiscal and Economic Research Center, offer important hands-on experience for students while providing outreach services to members of the regional community. Learn more ways to get involved.

Connect With Us

Department Email: economics@uww.edu

Phone: (262) 472-1361

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