What do ECONOMISTS DO?

ECONOMICS EXAMINES THE DIFFERENT WAYS THAT GOVERNMENTS, BUSINESSES, AND INDIVIDUALS MANAGE RESOURCES AND PROVIDE GOODS AND SERVICES. SOME PEOPLE WHO HAVE STUDIED ECONOMICS WORK AS ECONOMISTS.

ACADEMIC ECONOMISTS

Teaching economics

Economics is taught in most schools and universities, and is a popular choice of subject for students looking forward to a career in business, finance, or government.

Research economist

Many economics students continue their studies at university, and some of these go on to become academic economists, teaching and researching economic theory.

Macroeconomics

In macroeconomics the economies of countries and their governments are studied.

Microeconomics

Microeconomics looks at specific aspects of the economy and examines the economic behavior of individuals and businesses buying and selling goods and services.

Applied economics

Students of economics often study subjects connected to economic ideas, such as business studies, politics, law, and sociology, but also subjects such as philosophy.

PUBLIC SECTOR ECONOMISTS

Political economist

There are many career options in politics for economics students. Many politicians have studied economics, and governments employ professional economists to advise on policy.

Economists in government

Many government departments employ people qualified in economics—tax and finance departments, for example. All branches of the civil service require economists.

Development economics

Economists may work in major international organizations, such as the UN and World Bank. Those specializing in development economics can also work for aid agencies and charities.

PRIVATE SECTOR ECONOMISTS

Banking

Economics graduates work in banking. Either in consumer banks dealing with individuals and small businesses or in investment banks providing finance for larger corporations.

Traders and analysts

Studying economics is useful for traders in the financial markets, such as the stock exchange or commodities markets. Economists also work as analysts and advisers to trading firms.

Financial advisers and accountants

Some economists work as accountants or financial advisers, guiding businesses, insurance firms, or individuals, on issues with savings, tax, and investments.

In the news

TV, radio, and newspapers often employ a number of journalists with qualifications in economics to report on current affairs and offer an analysis of the news.

* from Heads Up Money