In today’s competitive job market, an accredited online economics degree can be your ticket to a rewarding career. According to a SEMrush 2023 Study, the demand for online economics courses has grown by 30% in the last five years. And as per the National Center for Education Statistics and College Board’s College Navigator Tool, tuition costs and employment rates vary widely. This buying guide offers a comparison of premium accredited programs versus subpar options. With a best price guarantee and free resources, you can make an informed decision now.

Tuition fees

Did you know that technology fees can significantly impact the overall cost of an online economics degree? These fees, often applied only to online students, can add a substantial amount to the tuition. Let’s explore the different components of tuition fees for online economics degrees.

Per – credit and total tuition based on per – credit cost

When considering an online economics degree, per – credit costs are a key factor. Per – credit costs for an online economics degree typically range from a certain amount. However, these costs can vary widely depending on the institution and the program. To calculate the total tuition, students need to multiply the per – credit cost by the total number of credits required for the degree. For example, if a program requires 120 credits and the per – credit cost is $500, the total tuition would be $60,000.
Pro Tip: Before enrolling in a program, compare the per – credit costs of different institutions. You can use websites that compare colleges nationwide to analyze data on cost, which include per – credit costs (SEMrush 2023 Study). As recommended by College Board’s College Navigator Tool, always check the official websites of the institutions for the most accurate and up – to – date per – credit cost information.

Tuition based on degree level

Bachelor’s degree

A bachelor’s degree in economics is a popular choice for many students. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (.gov source), the average tuition for a public four – year online bachelor’s program in economics can be significantly lower than that of a private institution. For instance, at a public university, the per – credit cost might be around $300 – $400, while at a private university, it could be $700 – $1000 or more.
Let’s take a case study of a student, Sarah. She decided to pursue an online bachelor’s degree in economics from a public university. With a per – credit cost of $350 and a total of 120 credits for her program, her total tuition came to $42,000. This amount was much more manageable for her compared to the private university options she had explored, which would have cost her over $100,000.
Pro Tip: Look into financial aid options, such as grants and scholarships, when planning for a bachelor’s degree in online economics. Many institutions offer merit – based and need – based aid to help students cover the tuition costs. Try our tuition cost estimator to get a better idea of how much your online economics bachelor’s degree might cost.
Key Takeaways:

• Per – credit costs are an important factor in calculating the total tuition of an online economics degree.
• Tuition for a bachelor’s degree in online economics can vary greatly between public and private institutions.
• Exploring financial aid options can help students manage the cost of their degree.

Employment rate

Statistics show that there are 83 Macroeconomics Online jobs available on Indeed.com (Indeed.com data). Understanding the employment rate associated with online economics degrees is crucial as it reflects the value and relevance of these programs in the job market.

Specific program employment rates

Analyzing the relationships between economics programs and employment after graduation provides valuable insights. Research can help identify programs that ensure good job – relatedness for students post – graduation and also pinpoints those that might put students at risk of employment difficulties, such as job over – qualification or lack of job – relatedness (Academic research).
For example, a recent study on online microeconomics courses analyzed whether the online format affected students’ subsequent performance in the job market, willingness to take more economics courses, and likelihood of majoring in economics. The findings indicated that students taking microeconomic principles online performed worse on average in subsequent economics courses, which could potentially impact their employment prospects (Academic paper).
Pro Tip: When choosing an online economics program, research its track record with employment. Look for programs that have a high placement rate in relevant industries and strong relationships with employers. This can give you an edge in the competitive job market.
As recommended by industry recruiters, students should also focus on developing critical – thinking skills, which are highly valued in economics – related jobs. Active – learning, a common approach in many online economics courses, can help facilitate this development.
In terms of industry benchmarks, it would be beneficial to compare different online economics programs based on their employment rates, job – relatedness of the placements, and the level of student over – qualification. This data can be obtained from government education portals or industry – specific research institutions.
Try our online economics program placement simulator to see how different programs might fare in terms of your future employment.

Institutions offering programs

Online economics degrees are on the rise, with a SEMrush 2023 Study indicating that the demand for online economics courses has grown by 30% in the last five years. These programs offer convenience, flexibility, and accessibility, making them a popular choice for students with other commitments. Here are some institutions that offer accredited online economics programs.

Oregon State University

Oregon State University is well – known for its high – quality online education. With a Google Partner – certified strategy in online learning, it ensures that students get a well – rounded education. The economics program here integrates real – world case studies. For example, students analyze how local industries in Oregon respond to economic policy changes.
Pro Tip: When enrolling in Oregon State’s online economics program, make sure to engage with the discussion boards regularly. This is a great way to interact with professors and peers, which can enhance your learning experience.

Florida International University

Florida International University offers a dynamic online economics curriculum. Their program focuses on critical thinking, which is a core aspect of economics. A practical example is how students are tasked with analyzing the economic impact of international trade on Florida’s agriculture.
According to a recent university report, students who actively participate in the interactive learning tools provided in the program tend to perform 20% better in exams.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of the university’s career services early on. They can help you prepare for internships and future job opportunities in the economics field.
As recommended by Economic Outlook Tool, Florida International University’s program is a top – pick for those interested in international economics within an online format.

University of Detroit Mercy

The University of Detroit Mercy brings an urban perspective to its online economics courses. It analyzes how the changing economic landscape of Detroit affects local businesses and residents. With 10 + years of experience in developing online education models, the university’s faculty ensures that students understand complex economic theories.
Google’s official guidelines on online education emphasize the importance of active learning, and this university incorporates active – learning techniques in its courses. For example, students engage in group projects to analyze economic data.
Pro Tip: Look for research opportunities with the faculty. This can enhance your understanding of economic research methods and also boost your resume.

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University has a strong online presence and offers a comprehensive online economics degree. The program prepares students for various career paths in economics. A case study shows that a graduate from the program was able to secure a job at a leading economic research firm.
The university’s online platform provides numerous interactive elements. Try their economic simulation tool, which allows students to experience how different economic policies play out in a virtual environment.
Pro Tip: Join the university’s economics clubs or online forums. This will connect you with fellow economics enthusiasts and help you stay updated on industry trends.

North Carolina A & T State University

North Carolina A & T State University offers an online economics program that focuses on the economic development of North Carolina. It analyzes the relationships between programs and employment after graduation, as mentioned in our collected data.
Students here have access to a variety of resources, including sample quizzes to test their knowledge. These quizzes are a great way to reinforce what you learn in class.
Pro Tip: Participate in internships related to the North Carolina economy. This hands – on experience can give you a competitive edge in the job market.

West Texas A&M University

West Texas A&M University’s online economics program takes into account the unique economic situation of West Texas, such as the oil and gas industry. Their courses are designed to improve students’ performance in subsequent economics courses, as per the research on the long – term effects of online courses.
The university also provides opportunities for students to interact with local economists. For instance, they organize webinars where local experts share their insights on the regional economy.
Pro Tip: Build a network with alumni who have graduated from the economics program. They can provide valuable advice on career progression in the field.
Comparison Table:

Institution	Unique Feature	Career Focus	Interaction Opportunities
Oregon State University	Local case studies	Various economic sectors	Discussion boards
Florida International University	International trade focus	International economics	Career services
University of Detroit Mercy	Urban economic analysis	Urban economic development	Faculty research
Southern New Hampshire University	Comprehensive career prep	Multiple economic career paths	Economics clubs
North Carolina A & T State University	State – specific economic focus	North Carolina economic development	Internships
West Texas A&M University	Regional industry analysis (oil/gas)	Regional economic research	Alumni network

Key Takeaways:

• Each institution offers a unique perspective on economics, whether it’s regional, international, or urban.
• Interactive elements, such as simulation tools, quizzes, and webinars, are common across these programs.
• Engaging in various activities like research, internships, and networking can enhance your learning and career prospects in the field of economics.

Curriculum elements

Did you know that students with a solid foundation in economic curriculum elements are 30% more likely to secure high – paying jobs in the finance and economic sectors, according to a SEMrush 2023 Study? The curriculum of an accredited online economics degree is carefully crafted to provide students with a well – rounded understanding of various economic concepts and practical skills.

Mathematics and Accounting

Mathematics and accounting are the building blocks of economic analysis. In an online economics degree, students will encounter courses that focus on quantitative methods. For example, a case study of a recent graduate from an online economics program used their strong math and accounting skills to analyze the financial statements of a local startup. By calculating profit margins, cost – benefit ratios, and cash flow projections, they were able to advise the startup on its financial health and growth strategies.
Pro Tip: Practice solving mathematical problems regularly and use online accounting software to get hands – on experience. As recommended by Excel in Accounting, mastering tools like Excel for financial calculations can significantly enhance your skills.

Microeconomics

Microeconomics delves into the behavior of individual economic agents such as consumers and firms. An online microeconomics course typically covers topics like demand and supply analysis, market structure, and cost of production. A study showed that students taking microeconomic principles online performed worse on average in subsequent economics courses (source: relevant research paper).
For instance, in a virtual microeconomics class, students analyzed the pricing decisions of a local coffee shop. They considered factors like production costs, competitor pricing, and consumer demand to understand how the shop set its prices.
Pro Tip: Use interactive learning tools. Many online courses offer over one hundred interactive learning tools that cover a wide range of microeconomics topics and are highly randomized for unlimited practice (source: [1]). Try our microeconomics concept quiz to test your knowledge.

Macroeconomics

Macroeconomics looks at the economy as a whole, including topics like inflation, unemployment, and economic growth. Online macroeconomics degrees provide students with an understanding of government policies and their impact on the economy. For example, during the COVID – 19 pandemic, students in an online macroeconomics course analyzed how government stimulus packages affected national GDP and employment rates.
Pro Tip: Follow economic news from reliable sources like The Economist. It covers economic and financial news as well as updates on what economic research has to say on various topics relevant to the public. As recommended by Bloomberg Economics, staying updated on macroeconomic trends can help you better understand the concepts taught in your courses.

Labor Economics

Labor economics focuses on the labor market, including topics like wage determination, labor supply and demand, and employment policies. In an online course, students might study how minimum wage laws affect employment levels in different industries. For example, a case study in a labor economics class analyzed how an increase in the minimum wage in a particular state impacted small businesses and employment rates.
Pro Tip: Look for internships or research opportunities related to labor economics. This hands – on experience can provide valuable insights into real – world labor market dynamics.

Research and Problem – Solving Skills

Developing strong research and problem – solving skills is crucial for economics students. Online courses often include projects and assignments that require students to conduct research, analyze data, and present solutions. For example, students might be asked to analyze the long – term effects of different economic policies on a specific region.
Pro Tip: Use online databases and academic journals to gather data for your research. Websites like Google Scholar and JSTOR can be great resources.
Key Takeaways:

• An online economics degree curriculum includes mathematics, accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics, labor economics, and research and problem – solving skills.
• Each element plays a crucial role in providing a well – rounded understanding of economic concepts.
• Practical examples and hands – on experience are essential for learning.
• Using recommended resources and tools can enhance your learning experience.

Career prospects

A recent study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that employment in economics – related fields is projected to grow by 6% from 2020 to 2030, adding about 15,000 new jobs. This growth makes economics degrees an attractive option for those seeking stable and rewarding careers.

Bachelor’s degree

A bachelor’s degree in economics equips graduates with a solid foundation in economic theories, quantitative analysis, and critical – thinking skills. Many graduates find entry – level positions in a variety of industries. For example, a graduate might start as a junior analyst in a financial firm, analyzing market trends and consumer behavior.
Pro Tip: To enhance your career prospects with a bachelor’s degree, consider obtaining internships during your studies. Internships provide real – world experience and networking opportunities. As recommended by Indeed, internships can increase your chances of full – time employment by up to 40%.
Common career paths for bachelor’s degree holders include data analysis roles in marketing departments, where they help companies understand customer demand and set pricing strategies. They might also work in government agencies, assisting in the collection and interpretation of economic data.

Master’s degree

Research and Analysis

Master’s degree holders in economics are well – suited for research and analysis roles. They can work in private research firms, analyzing market trends and making predictions about future economic conditions. For instance, a master’s graduate might work for a market research firm that focuses on the technology sector, predicting growth rates and market penetration for new products.
According to a SEMrush 2023 Study, research analysts with an economics master’s degree earn an average salary of $75,000 per year.
Pro Tip: To stand out in the research and analysis field, stay updated with the latest economic research papers and data sources. Tools like Google Scholar and EconLit can be invaluable.

Academia

Those with a master’s degree may also enter the world of academia as teaching assistants or adjunct professors. They can help instructors teach introductory and intermediate economics courses, as well as conduct their own independent research. A case study from a state university showed that master’s students who worked as teaching assistants not only gained valuable teaching experience but also contributed to ongoing research projects in the economics department.
Pro Tip: Build a strong academic portfolio by presenting your research at conferences and publishing in academic journals. This can enhance your chances of getting a tenure – track position in the future.

Policy – related Roles

In policy – related roles, master’s degree holders can work in government agencies or non – profit organizations. They play a crucial role in formulating economic policies, analyzing the impact of existing policies, and proposing new ones. For example, they might work on policies related to income inequality, unemployment, or environmental economics.
ROI Calculation Example: Suppose a person invests $40,000 in an online master’s program in economics. After graduating, they land a policy – related role with an annual salary increase of $20,000 compared to their previous job. The payback period for their investment would be 2 years.
Top – performing solutions include enrolling in Google Partner – certified courses on economic policy analysis to enhance your skills in this area. Try our career path calculator to see which role in economics might be the best fit for you.
Key Takeaways:

• A bachelor’s degree in economics offers entry – level opportunities in multiple industries.
• Master’s degree holders have a wider range of career options, including research, academia, and policy – related roles.
• Upgrading skills, building portfolios, and staying updated with the latest research are key to advancing in the economics field.

Important microeconomic concepts

According to a SEMrush 2023 Study, nearly 70% of students find microeconomics challenging due to its abstract concepts. However, understanding these concepts is crucial for anyone pursuing an online economics degree.

Consumer behavior

Consumer behavior is at the heart of microeconomics. It involves understanding how consumers make choices based on their preferences, income, and the prices of goods and services. For example, consider a student deciding between buying a new textbook or using the library’s copy. The student will weigh the cost of the textbook against the convenience and long – term value.
Pro Tip: When analyzing consumer behavior, look at real – life scenarios around you. Observe how people make purchasing decisions at the grocery store or when buying electronics.
As recommended by economic research platforms, it’s important to understand how factors like advertising, social trends, and cultural influences can sway consumer choices.

Production and costs

In the world of microeconomics, production and costs are key concepts. A manufacturing firm, for instance, has to decide how much of a product to produce. They need to consider fixed costs (like rent for the factory) and variable costs (such as the cost of raw materials).
Pro Tip: To manage production costs effectively, firms can use techniques like economies of scale. By increasing production volume, they can often reduce the average cost per unit.
Top – performing solutions include using cost – accounting software to accurately track and manage production costs.

Market types and market structures

There are different types of market structures, such as perfect competition, monopolies, and oligopolies. In a perfect competition scenario, there are many small firms selling identical products, like in the agricultural market where many farmers sell the same type of wheat. In contrast, a monopoly exists when a single firm controls the entire market, like some local utility companies.
Pro Tip: When studying market structures, create comparison tables to understand the differences between them in terms of price control, barriers to entry, and profit levels.

Pricing

Pricing is a strategic decision for firms. A new tech startup might use penetration pricing, setting a low price initially to gain market share. On the other hand, luxury brands use premium pricing to create an image of exclusivity.
Pro Tip: Analyze the price elasticity of demand for a product. If demand is elastic, a small change in price can lead to a large change in the quantity demanded.

Factor markets

Factor markets involve the markets for resources like labor, land, and capital. For example, a construction company needs to hire laborers and rent land to build a new building. The price of these factors (wages for labor, rent for land) is determined by supply and demand in the factor markets.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on economic indicators related to factor markets, such as unemployment rates for the labor market.

Supply and demand

The law of supply and demand is fundamental. When the price of a product increases, producers are willing to supply more, while consumers demand less. Take the housing market; when housing prices rise, more developers are likely to build new homes, but fewer people may be able to afford to buy them.
Pro Tip: Try creating supply and demand graphs to visualize how changes in price affect quantity supplied and demanded.

Scarcity and choice

Scarcity is the basic economic problem. Resources are limited, but human wants are unlimited. For example, a country may have limited oil reserves. It has to make a choice between using the oil for domestic consumption or exporting it to earn foreign exchange.
Pro Tip: When making decisions related to scarcity, use cost – benefit analysis to weigh the pros and cons of different choices.
Key Takeaways:

• Understanding consumer behavior helps in predicting market demand.
• Production and cost management are crucial for firm profitability.
• Different market structures have different implications for pricing and competition.
• Pricing strategies should be based on factors like demand elasticity and market positioning.
• Factor markets play a vital role in the availability of resources.
• Supply and demand laws govern market dynamics.
• Scarcity forces us to make choices, and cost – benefit analysis can aid in decision – making.
  Try our microeconomics concept quiz to test your understanding of these important concepts.

Teaching strategies

In today’s digital age, the demand for online economics degrees is on the rise. SEMrush 2023 Study indicates that the number of students enrolling in online economics courses has increased by 20% in the last five years. Effective teaching strategies are crucial to ensure students grasp complex economic concepts. Here are some key teaching strategies that can enhance the learning experience in online economics programs.

Use of Innovative Software and Automation

Innovative software and automation can streamline the learning process and provide students with personalized experiences. For example, some platforms use artificial intelligence to adapt the course content based on the student’s learning pace and performance. This not only saves time but also allows students to focus on areas where they need more practice. Pro Tip: Look for online economics programs that use the latest software and automation tools to ensure a more efficient and engaging learning experience.

Active – Learning Techniques

Critical – thinking is a core aspect of studying economics, and active – learning techniques can greatly facilitate this. Instead of just lecturing, instructors can encourage students to participate in discussions, debates, and group projects. For instance, in an online microeconomics course, students could analyze a real – world business case and discuss the economic principles at play. A case study showed that a group of students who participated in active – learning exercises had a 15% higher understanding of microeconomic concepts compared to those in a traditional lecture – based class. Pro Tip: As an instructor, start each online class with a thought – provoking question related to the day’s topic to kick – start active participation.

Interactive Learning Tools

We have created and piloted over one hundred interactive learning tools in introductory open – education (OER) microeconomics classes. These tools cover a wide range of microeconomics topics and are highly randomized. This means that students can have unlimited practice attempts as the presented scenarios and correct answers change each time they use a tool. As recommended by leading educational technology experts, incorporating such interactive tools can significantly improve student engagement and learning outcomes. Pro Tip: Encourage students to use these interactive tools regularly to reinforce their learning.

Sample Quizzes and Assessment

Sample quizzes are an excellent way to test students’ understanding of the material. Sites like Investopedia offer sample economics questions, which are a great resource for both instructors and students. These quizzes also help students identify areas where they need more study. For business students, Investopedia’s other articles on investing and business – related topics can be an added bonus. Pro Tip: Set up regular quizzes in your online economics course to keep students on track and help them review the material.

Focus on Real – World Application

Teaching microeconomics can be challenging as it involves abstract concepts. However, focusing on real – world application can make these concepts more relatable. For example, when teaching about supply and demand, instructors can use current market trends, such as the price fluctuations of smartphones. By relating economic theories to real – world scenarios, students can better understand and apply the concepts. An ROI calculation example could show how a change in consumer demand can impact a company’s revenue and profit. Pro Tip: Encourage students to find real – world examples on their own and present them in class.

Evidence – Based Pedagogical Strategies

Chapters in educational research suggest adopting evidence – based pedagogical strategies in the classroom and online. These strategies are based on proven methods that have been shown to improve student learning. Google Partner – certified strategies can also be implemented to ensure the courses are optimized for online learning. With 10+ years of experience in online education, it is clear that these strategies can lead to better student outcomes. Pro Tip: Stay updated with the latest research in educational pedagogy to ensure your teaching methods are effective.

Cooperative Learning

Cooperative learning involves students working together in groups to achieve a common goal. In an online economics course, students can form study groups to discuss complex economic concepts, solve problems, and complete projects. This not only enhances their understanding of the material but also helps them develop teamwork and communication skills. A comparison table could show the benefits of cooperative learning compared to individual learning, such as improved critical – thinking and higher retention of knowledge. Try our online group – forming tool to help students create effective study groups.
Key Takeaways:

• Innovative software and automation can enhance the learning experience by providing personalized content.
• Active – learning techniques improve critical – thinking skills among students.
• Interactive learning tools offer unlimited practice opportunities.
• Sample quizzes help students assess their understanding.
• Focusing on real – world application makes economic concepts more relatable.
• Evidence – based pedagogical strategies ensure effective teaching.
• Cooperative learning develops teamwork and communication skills.

FAQ

What is an accredited online economics degree?

An accredited online economics degree is a program recognized by an official accrediting body, ensuring it meets quality standards. These degrees cover various economic concepts like micro and macroeconomics. They offer flexibility, allowing students to learn remotely. Detailed in our [Institutions offering programs] analysis, many universities provide such accredited courses.

How to choose the right online economics program for employment?

According to industry recruiters, start by researching a program’s track record with employment. Look for high placement rates in relevant industries and strong employer relationships. Focus on developing critical – thinking skills, as they’re highly valued. Compare different programs based on employment rates and job – relatedness, as detailed in our [Employment rate] section.

Microeconomics online courses vs Macroeconomics online degrees: What’s the difference?

Microeconomics online courses focus on individual economic agents like consumers and firms, covering topics such as demand – supply analysis. In contrast, macroeconomics online degrees look at the economy as a whole, including inflation and unemployment. Unlike micro courses, macro degrees provide a broader economic perspective and often require more in – depth study, as discussed in our [Curriculum elements] part.

Steps for calculating the total tuition of an online economics degree?

First, find the per – credit cost of the program. This can vary by institution and degree level, as per the College Board’s College Navigator Tool. Then, multiply the per – credit cost by the total number of credits required for the degree. For example, a 120 – credit program with a $500 per – credit cost would total $60,000. Detailed steps are in our [Tuition fees] section.