Villanova University

What you'll study

The undergraduate economics programme combines core theory with quantitative tools and applied electives. Students study foundational courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics, intermediate theory, and econometrics, with an emphasis on data analysis and empirical methods. Mathematical preparation typically includes calculus and statistics, and students can choose electives across fields such as public finance, labour economics, industrial organisation, international trade and finance, behavioural economics, and the economics of health and education.

• Core topics: Principles of micro & macroeconomics, intermediate microeconomics, intermediate macroeconomics, econometrics.
• Quantitative skills: Statistics for economists, applied regression, data analysis with statistical software, mathematical economics.
• Applied electives: Public finance, labour economics, international economics, environmental economics, development economics, game theory, health economics.
• Capstone and research: Senior seminar or research project options allow students to pursue independent empirical or theoretical work under faculty supervision.
• Practical experience: Internship placements, consultancies, and opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research are encouraged to connect theory to practice.

Entry requirements

Admission to Villanova's undergraduate programme is competitive and based on a holistic review of academic performance and extracurricular engagement. Typical preparation for the economics major includes strong performance in high school mathematics (preferably including calculus), coursework in social sciences, and solid written and quantitative skills.

• Academic background: High school diploma or equivalent with strong grades, especially in mathematics and quantitative subjects.
• Recommended subjects: Calculus, statistics, and courses in economics or social studies when available.
• Application materials: Admissions file usually includes a secondary school transcript, personal statement, and recommendation letters; standardised tests may be submitted where applicable according to the university's policies.
• Additional considerations: Relevant extracurricular activities, demonstrated interest in economics or research, and any internship or work experience strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in economics from Villanova are well positioned for careers that value analytical and quantitative reasoning. The degree is versatile and serves as preparation for employment across private, public and non‑profit sectors, as well as for advanced study.

• Private sector: Roles in banking, financial services, consulting, marketing analytics, and data science.
• Public sector and policy: Positions in government agencies, think tanks, and international organisations focusing on policy analysis and program evaluation.
• Research and academia: Research assistantships and progression to graduate study in economics, public policy, business or law.
• Other pathways: Careers in management, entrepreneurship, education and non‑profit programme management where quantitative decision‑making is valued.

Why study at Villanova University

Villanova offers an economics education that blends rigorous analytical training with a broad liberal‑arts perspective. Small class sizes and accessible faculty enable mentorship and close supervision of student research. The university's location near Philadelphia provides extensive internship and employment connections across finance, government and industry, while career services and alumni networks support transitions into the workforce or graduate study.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration with business, engineering and public policy programmes, as well as opportunities to participate in applied research projects, student clubs and community engagement consistent with the university's emphasis on ethical leadership and service.