Skills Developed through an Economics Degree

A background in Economics ensures that you develop the skills and mindset to tackle many different professional challenges.

Core Economics Skills

• Knowledge of the economy from both micro and macro perspectives
• An understanding of social behaviour and institutions that are involved in the allocation of resources
• The analytical skills necessary for understanding and solving complex economic problems related to production and consumption in a variety of national and international settings including product, labour and capital markets
• The ability to evaluate economic theories and interpret economic behaviour through the use of data and empirical testing

Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

• The ability to present your thoughts clearly and intelligently in written statements
• An ability to organize, understand and analyze new sources of information and to apply novel forms of technology or new information to different professional settings and tasks
• An ability to prepare oral and written presentations and reports using current data and technology
• The ability to learn new information and apply this to professional demands
• The capacity to critically analyze problems, think creatively and make sound decisions while considering different sides of each argument
• The ability to explain complex ideas clearly to others and to apply complex theoretical concepts to everyday practice and professional dilemmas

Management and Teamwork

• The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project’s intended and successful end result
• Logical thinking skills and the ability to lead and interact with a variety of people with different approaches and personal and professional backgrounds
• Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
• The ability to debate, persuade, mediate and present your thoughts to others, as well as the capacity to recognize and incorporate other potential solutions or applications to given problems
• The capability to identify priorities and proper courses of action, to plan the execution of tasks and to determine and delegate responsibilities to group members to most effectively carry out projects

Professional Associations and Organizations

Knowing an industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field.

• Canadian Association for Business Economics
• Canadian Economics Association
• The Economic Developers Association of Canada
• International Association for Energy Economics