Economics (BSc) or (BA)
An economics degree equips grads with data literacy and policy relevant problem‑solving skills that are directly valued in today’s job markets.
Why choose this program?
Economics helps you make sense of the choices you face in everyday life, and the decisions others make that shape the world around you. It also equips you to tackle larger challenges, from tracing global wealth inequality and estimating the costs of climate change to designing policies that support countries’ growth.
As a student at Dalhousie, you will use math, data, and problem-solving skills to evaluate how economic choices are made. You won’t just study how the world allocates its resources; you will learn how to design the frameworks that build a more equitable and resilient future.
Careers
Our graduates don't end up working in just one field, because Economics can be applied to just about any job or industry. This program prepares you for participating in and shaping public life and society in various ways.
Dalhousie graduates with degrees in Economics have gone on to become policy makers, researchers, teachers, consultants, and business owners. The study of economics is also a great basis for further education in law, commerce, environmental or developmental studies, and other social sciences.
What you will learn
You’ll study various topics from banking and trade to health and global warming. Economics isn’t just about theory. At Dal, you’ll learn both the “why” and the “how”, understanding big ideas and using them to solve real-world problems and make sense of everyday issues.
Sample courses
Principles of Microeconomics
Principles of Macroeconomics
Statistics
Calculus
- Psychology and Economics
- Law and Economics
- Economics of Global Warming
- Women and the Economy
- Public Finance
- History of Economic Thought
- Economic Development
- International Trade
Poverty and Inequality
Causal Machine- Learning for Economic Analysis
Market Design
Macroeconomic Theory
You'll have the option to choose courses that are more geared toward the social sciences rather than the math side of economic theory. The program offers many opportunities for customization so you can pursue your interests as you discover them.
Take your education beyond the classroom
Expand your learning abroad on exchange. Get involved in peer-mentor partnerships, and gain valuable experience by participating in directed research and experiential learning courses.
Customize your degree
The following Economics program options are offered by Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Science or Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore options such as:
Concentrated Honours Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Economics
Combined Honours Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Economics
Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts with Major in Economics
Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts with Double Major in Economics
Minor in Economics
Add a minor to your BA or BSc in Economics to expand your skill set and perspective with a second discipline, allowing you to study everything you’re passionate about at Dal.
Visit the Academic Calendar to browse the minors you can take with this degree.
Complete a certificate alongside your regular degree requirements and graduate with additional skills in specialized areas. Options include:
- Data Analytics
- Environmental Impact Assessment
- Science Communication and Leadership
The Dalhousie Integrated Science Program (DISP) is a unique, immersive first-year option for motivated students looking to complete their first year of a science degree. You’ll work effectively in teams, explore connections across scientific disciplines, and complete a hands-on research project while building critical skills in data analysis, tech, and scientific communication
The BA in Economics is more focused on economics as a social science, while the BSc in Economics is more quantitative, with extra math and statistics.
Our Economics program offers many opportunities for customization, so you can pursue your interests as you discover them.
Admission requirements
Minimum admission requirements
To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:
- Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
- Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
- Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).
Admission to many Dalhousie programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Program-specific admission requirements
To enter the Bachelor of Science program in your first year, you must meet the following high school course requirements:
- Minimum overall average: 75%
- Academic English 12
- Pre-calculus Math 12
- Three additional academic subjects
Note: All Bachelor of Science students enter the Faculty of Science as undeclared majors. This gives you the freedom to explore your scientific interests during your first year.
You will officially declare your Economics major, minor, or specialized options at the end of your first year using your first-year science and math prerequisites.
To enter the Bachelor of Arts program in your first year, you must meet the following high school course requirements:
- Minimum overall average: 70%
- Academic English 12
- Four additional academic subjects
Need Pre-Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, or another admission requirement? Our online, self-paced UPrep courses can help you earn the prerequisite you need, upgrade your marks, and build confidence before starting your degree at Dal. Explore UPrep courses.
