Economics

Economics is the study of how the economy works, where it came from, the challenges it creates for social equality and social justice, and how individuals engage to modify and change economic relations.

Economics at STU

Economics brings the strengths of a critical liberal arts education to the study of the economy. We study different ways regions, large and small, manage their resources—whether those resources be financial, natural, goods, or services. You will investigate not only how the economy works, but where it came from, the challenges it creates for social equality and social justice, and how people engage to modify and change existing economic relations. 

Dr. Dev Gupta standing in front of a whiteboard in a classroom

 

“The STU liberal arts context is a great place to encounter the ideas of economists and the reasons why they sometimes disagree.”

 

Dr. Dev Gupta, Chair, Economics at STU

 

What Sets Economics at STU Apart? 

  • We are one of few programs that offer an honours program in mainstream economics and political economy, which focuses on the relations between the economy, politics, and social outcomes. 
     
  • Small, engaging classes that emphasize personal interaction, discussion, and debate. 
  • Students can complete a minor in business that provides background in key aspects like accounting, marketing, personal financial planning, and management. 
     
  • Lectures and seminars are always taught by professors—not teaching assistants—which means students learn from experts in the field.  
     
  • Students benefit from faculty expertise in international trade, economics of happiness, historical political economy, ecological economics, and the political economy of women.  

Where the Study of Economics can Take You

Students in economics develop strong critical thinking, analysis, creative problem solving, and research skills. They learn to navigate the ebb and flow nature of the economy and gain the capacity to make informed decisions related to wealth and resources. There is strong demand for highly numerate graduates throughout the global labour market, and the widely transferable skills developed by economics students means that careers in economics are wide ranging and diverse. 
 
Prepare for a meaningful career from a variety of fields:

 

  • Business and Entrepreneurship
  • Non-Governmental Organizations
  • Economic Development
  • Corporate Management and Consulting
  • Government
  • Public Policy
  • Law 

 

“My economics major has given me highly desirable tools in the workplace such as mathematics, data analysis, and an understanding of markets and business. STU’s size made it possible for me to network, talk to professors, and find unique opportunities to develop professionally and academically.” 
 
Khanh Do, BA ’22, Economics with a minor in Business, and Political Science 
Post-graduate Venture for Canada fellowship 

 

Gain Experience and Build Your Resume

Connect the study of Economics with professional experience through the STU Internship Program in positions with:

 

  • 3+ Corporation
  • Immigration Fredericton
  • Ignite Fredericton
  • City of Fredericton
  • Planet Hatch

Earn practical, hands-on experience through our Work Study course. The course will allow you to develop your skills in an applied work context by pairing you with a professional economist two days per week for one term on approved assignments. 

You might be interested in studying Economics if…

  • You are interested in the economy
  • You want to become an informed citizen
  • You want to make sense of world events, make informed financial decisions, and shape public policy

Featured Courses

The Art and Science of Happiness 
Economics of Poverty 
Political Economy of Crime 
History of Economic Thought 

Fields that Enhance Your Learning in Economics

Economics originated as an interdisciplinary academic field and pairs naturally with several disciplines at STU. Students in Economics often take courses in fields like Political Science, Sociology, Philosophy, Journalism, Communications and Public Policy, end Environment and Society.