Economists
Economists are like financial detectives who study how money, markets, and resources work in our world. They collect and analyze data using advanced software and mathematical models to understand economic trends and predict what might happen in financial markets. These professionals research topics like international trade, education costs, and job markets, then share their findings through reports, graphs, and presentations. Economists often work with businesses, government agencies, and organizations to help them make smart financial decisions, and many collaborate in teams while working in modern offices or remotely.
Did you know?
Most economist positions in the U.S. require at least a master's degree, with many research and senior roles preferring a Ph.D.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$102,400 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top skill
Critical Thinking
Things to consider
Specialization Benefits
Developing expertise in specific areas like labor economics, environmental economics, or econometrics significantly enhances job prospects and earning potential.
Technical Skills Demand
Proficiency in statistical software like R, Python, or Stata is increasingly essential for data analysis and economic modeling in modern economist roles.
Key responsibilities
Testify at regulatory or legislative hearings concerning the estimated effects of changes in legislation or public policy, and present recommendations based on cost-benefit analyses.
Forecast production and consumption of renewable resources and supply, consumption, and depletion of non-renewable resources.
Teach theories, principles, and methods of economics.
Study the socioeconomic impacts of new public policies, such as proposed legislation, taxes, services, and regulations.
Develop economic guidelines and standards, and prepare points of view used in forecasting trends and formulating economic policy.