Associate Degree in Economics
Prior to choosing to pursue an associate degree in economics, it is important to look at what economics means and how it changes within the global marketplace. Broken down to its simplest form, economics is a social science. It is divided into two basic areas of study: macroeconomics and microeconomics. Macroeconomics is the study of how goods and services are made and distributed. Microeconomics focuses more on individual behavior with reference to use of capital, time, tools, and other resources. A rudimentary understanding of economics involves how it affects the choices and decisions of society, and how they in turn affect business decisions. Related topics such as tax Policy, healthcare reform, national debt, and stock market prices, are also studied and involve economists and economic theory. Economics affects not only individuals, but includes national and global decisions as well. An associate degree in economics can be a building block into various interesting career paths.
What Will You Learn While Pursuing an Associate in Economics Degree?
You will need to take the fundamental courses, such as English, Mathematics, Science, Speech, and other required courses from your college or university. Because the field of economics encompasses a variety of subjects and fields, specific courses may vary but will include high-end mathematic programs and financial extrapolation. As a student, you must have a solid understanding of economic basics. Depending on the area you plan to pursue as a career, your classes will be chosen from macroeconomics, microeconomics, business-related calculus, financial accounting, business-related statistics, and international business.
Through the curriculum you will also learn how to collect, assess, and interpret various data that is based on current economic theory. You will be required to cover subjects whose focal points are on finance, international trade, business planning, and business cycles. You must also be able to demonstrate an understanding of decision making in a business situation and complex economic theories. Proving that you can use critical thinking and problem solving principals to analyze economic trends and how they will effect social and political, will be required as your understanding of the principals of economics grows.
What Jobs Are Options for Someone With An Associate in Economics?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of economists is projected to grow 14 percent. This is in part due to recent economic rebounds and improving national job growth. Economist positions will also grow as a result of the upward swing in the complexity of the global economy, updated financial regulations, and a more competitive business environment. An increased demand for professionals with an insight into economics-related issues will help boost the jobs for those with economics degrees. Common careers include:- Marketing
- Sales
- Research assistance
- Financial consulting
- Logistics
- Compensation analyst
- Finance clerks
- Bank tellers
These are just some of the occupations that the graduates of this degree can be eligible. An associate degree in economics is a viable option for those that want to acquire specific skill sets to enable them to enter the job market. However, many use this degree as a "first-step" option, to catapult them into a bachelor degree program.
The field of economics is complex and varied. It is difficult to predict accurate trends, as economic factors are always changing. Yet, pursuing a degree in economics can be very rewarding. It requires a lot of work, the ability to understand economic trends, and how to best reap the rewards of this ever-changing field.
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