Economics at Roosevelt University

Credential: Bachelor's | State: IL

Annual Completions: 4

Roosevelt Economics: Solid Analytical Skills, Strong Career Potential, Variable ROI.

Program Analysis

Navigating the Economic Landscape: An In-Depth Analysis of Roosevelt University's Economics Program

For prospective students considering a Bachelor's degree in Economics, Roosevelt University in Illinois presents a unique and intimate academic environment. With a CIP Code of 4506, this program is designed to equip graduates with a robust understanding of economic principles, analytical skills, and a framework for critical decision-making in a complex world. While specific median earnings data for Roosevelt's graduates one year post-graduation is not available, a comprehensive analysis of the program's structure, career prospects, and national trends can provide valuable insights.

What You'll Learn: A Foundation for Insight

An Economics major at Roosevelt University, like most strong programs, delves into the core tenets of microeconomics and macroeconomics, providing students with a foundational understanding of individual and firm behavior, as well as national and global economic systems. Students typically explore topics such as supply and demand, market structures, fiscal and monetary policy, international trade, and economic development. Beyond theory, the curriculum emphasizes quantitative methods, including statistics and econometrics, which are crucial for analyzing data and forecasting economic trends. Courses often cover areas like public finance, labor economics, environmental economics, and behavioral economics, allowing students to specialize their interests.

What makes Roosevelt University's program distinctive, particularly with its reported 4 annual completions, is the potential for an exceptionally personalized learning experience. This small cohort size likely translates to smaller class sizes, more direct interaction with faculty, and opportunities for individualized mentorship and research. Located in a major urban center like Chicago, Roosevelt's program may also offer unique opportunities for applied economic analysis, internships with local businesses, non-profits, or government agencies, and exposure to real-world economic challenges and policy discussions relevant to urban environments. The university's broader mission often emphasizes social justice and community engagement, which could infuse the Economics curriculum with a focus on policy implications, inequality, and sustainable development.

Career Paths and Job Prospects: A Versatile Degree

An Economics degree is renowned for its versatility, opening doors to a wide array of career paths across various sectors. Graduates are highly valued for their analytical rigor, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of market dynamics. Common career paths include:

Financial Analyst: Working in investment banking, corporate finance, wealth management, or risk management, analyzing financial data, making investment recommendations, and assessing financial performance.
Data Analyst: Utilizing statistical and econometric skills to interpret large datasets, identify trends, and inform business strategy in tech, marketing, healthcare, and other industries.
Market Research Analyst: Studying market conditions, consumer behavior, and competitive landscapes to help companies make informed decisions about products, services, and pricing.
Management Consultant: Advising organizations on how to improve efficiency, solve problems, and achieve strategic goals, often leveraging economic models to analyze business operations.
Policy Analyst: Working for government agencies, think tanks, or non-profits to evaluate the economic impact of policies, conduct research, and recommend solutions to societal challenges.
Economist (with further education): While a Bachelor's degree can lead to entry-level roles, advanced degrees (Master's or Ph.D.) are typically required for professional economist positions in government, academia, or research.

The job outlook for these professions is generally strong. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects growth for many roles that value economic skills, driven by the increasing importance of data-driven decision-making and the complexity of global markets.

Salary Expectations: A Solid Return on Investment

While specific earnings for Roosevelt University's Economics graduates are not available, national data for Economics bachelor's degree holders provides a strong benchmark. The earning potential for Economics majors is generally above the average for all bachelor's degrees, reflecting the demand for their analytical skills.

Entry-Level (0-5 years experience): Graduates can typically expect to earn between $55,000 and $75,000 annually in roles like junior financial analyst, data analyst, or research assistant.
Mid-Career (5-15 years experience): With experience, salaries can rise significantly, often ranging from $85,000 to $130,000 for roles such as senior financial analyst, economic consultant, or market research manager.
Senior-Level (15+ years experience): Highly experienced professionals in leadership or specialized roles can command salaries upwards of $130,000 to $200,000+, particularly in finance, consulting, or senior management positions.

Comparing these figures to the national average for all bachelor's degree holders (median around $70,000 annually mid-career), Economics graduates often see a favorable return. Roosevelt University's tuition, while varying, typically falls in the range of $33,000-$35,000 per year, totaling approximately $132,000-$140,000 for a four-year degree before financial aid. Given the mid-career earning potential, the investment in an Economics degree from Roosevelt can be justified, especially if graduates leverage the program's potential for personalized attention and urban networking opportunities.

Skills and Competencies: What Employers Value

An Economics degree cultivates a highly sought-after skill set that transcends specific industries. Employers consistently seek graduates who can:

Quantitative Analysis: The ability to collect, analyze, and interpret complex data using statistical and econometric methods.
Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Deconstructing complex issues, identifying underlying economic forces, and developing logical, evidence-based solutions.
Data Interpretation & Visualization: Translating raw data and statistical findings into clear, actionable insights and presenting them effectively.
Research & Communication: Conducting thorough research, synthesizing information, and articulating findings clearly through written reports and oral presentations.
Economic Modeling & Forecasting: Understanding how economic models work and applying them to predict future trends and assess policy impacts.

These skills are foundational for navigating the data-rich environments of modern businesses and organizations.

Industry Trends Affecting Demand

The demand for Economics graduates is significantly influenced by several ongoing industry trends:

Data-Driven Decision Making: The explosion of 'big data' across all sectors has amplified the need for professionals who can analyze complex datasets and extract meaningful insights, a core competency of Economics majors.
Globalization and International Trade: The interconnectedness of global economies requires experts who understand international finance, trade policies, and cross-cultural economic dynamics.
Policy and Regulatory Complexity: Governments and organizations increasingly rely on economic analysis to inform policy decisions, assess regulatory impacts, and address societal challenges like climate change, healthcare, and inequality.
Financial Market Volatility: The dynamic nature of financial markets necessitates skilled analysts who can assess risk, forecast trends, and develop sound investment strategies.

These trends ensure a sustained and growing demand for individuals with strong economic reasoning and analytical capabilities.

Practical Advice for Prospective Students

For students considering Roosevelt University's Economics program, here is some practical advice:

Embrace Quantitative Skills: Excel in mathematics, statistics, and consider learning programming languages like Python or R, which are invaluable for data analysis.
Seek Internships: Actively pursue internships in finance, consulting, market research, or government to gain practical experience and build a professional network. Roosevelt's urban location should offer ample opportunities.
Network Actively: Connect with faculty, alumni, and professionals in your areas of interest. Attend career fairs and industry events.
Consider a Minor or Double Major: Pairing Economics with a complementary field like Computer Science, Finance, Political Science, or even a foreign language can significantly enhance your marketability.
Explore Graduate School: For those aspiring to become professional economists, researchers, or academics, a Master's or Ph.D. in Economics or related fields (e.g., Public Policy, Business Analytics) is often a necessary next step.
Leverage Small Program Size: With only 4 annual completions, actively engage with your professors, seek research opportunities, and take advantage of the personalized attention available.

Roosevelt University's Economics program, with its potential for individualized attention and urban context, offers a solid foundation for a diverse and rewarding career. While specific earnings data is unavailable, national trends suggest a strong return on investment for those who strategically leverage the skills and opportunities provided by an Economics degree.

ROI Verdict

While specific earnings data for Roosevelt University's Economics graduates is unavailable, national averages suggest a Bachelor's in Economics can lead to mid-career earnings of $85,000-$130,000. Compared to Roosevelt's estimated $132,000-$140,000 tuition, this program offers a solid return on investment, especially for those who leverage its personalized learning environment and urban networking opportunities to secure competitive roles.

Career Paths

Graduates of Economics at Roosevelt University can pursue the following career paths:

Financial Analyst — Analyzes financial data, assesses investment opportunities, and provides guidance on financial decisions for individuals or organizations.. Median salary: $99,090, Moderate growth outlook.
Data Analyst — Collects, processes, and performs statistical analyses on large datasets to identify trends and inform business strategies across various industries.. Median salary: $98,230, Strong growth outlook.
Market Research Analyst — Studies market conditions to examine potential sales of a product or service, helping companies understand consumer preferences and competitive landscapes.. Median salary: $73,120, Moderate growth outlook.
Management Consultant — Advises organizations on how to improve efficiency, solve problems, and achieve strategic goals, often using economic frameworks to analyze business operations.. Median salary: $99,430, Moderate growth outlook.
Policy Analyst — Evaluates the economic impact of public policies, conducts research, and recommends solutions to societal and governmental challenges.. Median salary: $75,000, Moderate growth outlook.

Skills Gained

Key skills developed in this program:

Quantitative Analysis
Critical Thinking
Statistical Modeling
Data Interpretation
Economic Forecasting

Industry Outlook

The demand for Economics graduates remains robust, driven by the increasing reliance on data-driven decision-making across all sectors. Industries like finance, technology, consulting, and government are actively seeking professionals who can analyze complex economic trends, interpret large datasets, and provide strategic insights. Global economic interconnectedness and evolving regulatory landscapes further underscore the need for skilled economic analysts.

Frequently Asked Questions about Economics at Roosevelt University

Is Economics. at Roosevelt University worth it?

Assessing the worth of an Economics degree from Roosevelt University involves weighing the investment against potential returns. While specific post-graduation earnings for Roosevelt's program are not available, national data indicates that Economics bachelor's degree holders typically earn above the average for all bachelor's degrees. Entry-level salaries often range from $55,000 to $75,000, growing to $85,000-$130,000 mid-career. Roosevelt's annual tuition, approximately $33,000-$35,000, totals around $132,000-$140,000 for a four-year degree before financial aid. This investment, while substantial, is generally recouped within a few years of mid-career earnings, suggesting a positive long-term ROI. The program's small size (4 annual completions) offers a unique advantage of personalized attention and mentorship, which can significantly enhance a student's learning experience and career preparation. Graduates will acquire highly transferable analytical and problem-solving skills, making them competitive in diverse fields like finance, data analysis, and consulting. For students who actively engage with the curriculum, pursue internships, and leverage the urban environment for networking, the program offers a valuable foundation for a rewarding career.

What jobs can I get with a Economics. degree?

An Economics degree from Roosevelt University opens doors to a wide array of career opportunities due to its emphasis on analytical thinking, data interpretation, and problem-solving. Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Financial Analysts, working in investment banking, corporate finance, or wealth management, with median salaries around $99,090. Data Analysts are in high demand across tech, healthcare, and marketing, using statistical skills to interpret large datasets, earning a median of $98,230. Market Research Analysts, with a median salary of $73,120, help companies understand consumer behavior and market trends. Management Consultants, earning a median of $99,430, advise businesses on efficiency and strategy. Other paths include Policy Analysts in government or non-profits, and roles in business development, risk management, or actuarial science. While a bachelor's degree provides a strong foundation, advanced degrees are often pursued for specialized economist roles in academia or research. The versatility of an Economics degree ensures graduates can adapt to evolving job markets and pursue diverse professional interests.

How much do Economics. graduates earn?

While specific earnings for Roosevelt University's Economics graduates are not publicly available, national salary data for Economics bachelor's degree holders provides a strong benchmark. Entry-level graduates (0-5 years experience) typically earn between $55,000 and $75,000 annually. This range covers roles such as junior financial analysts, data analysts, or research assistants, where foundational analytical skills are applied. As graduates gain experience and move into mid-career roles (5-15 years experience), their earning potential significantly increases, often ranging from $85,000 to $130,000 per year. This bracket includes positions like senior financial analysts, economic consultants, or market research managers, reflecting greater responsibility and expertise. For senior-level professionals (15+ years experience) in leadership or highly specialized roles, salaries can exceed $130,000, potentially reaching $200,000 or more, particularly in high-demand sectors like finance and consulting. These figures generally place Economics graduates above the national average for all bachelor's degree holders, underscoring the value of their specialized analytical skill set.

What skills will I learn in Economics.?

An Economics degree at Roosevelt University will cultivate a robust set of highly transferable skills essential for success in today's data-driven world. You will develop strong **Quantitative Analysis** abilities, learning to apply statistical methods and econometric models to interpret complex data, identify patterns, and make informed predictions. **Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving** are central, as you'll learn to deconstruct intricate economic issues, evaluate different perspectives, and formulate logical, evidence-based solutions. The program emphasizes **Data Interpretation and Visualization**, enabling you to translate raw data and statistical findings into clear, actionable insights and present them effectively to diverse audiences. You'll also hone **Research and Communication** skills, conducting thorough investigations, synthesizing information from various sources, and articulating your findings persuasively through written reports and oral presentations. Finally, you'll gain an understanding of **Economic Modeling and Forecasting**, learning how to construct and utilize models to analyze market behavior, assess policy impacts, and predict future economic trends. These competencies are highly valued by employers across finance, consulting, tech, and government sectors.

Is there demand for Economics. graduates?

Yes, there is a consistent and growing demand for Economics graduates, driven by several key industry trends. The increasing volume of 'big data' across all sectors has created a significant need for professionals who can analyze complex datasets, extract meaningful insights, and inform strategic decisions – a core competency of Economics majors. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects strong growth for many occupations that value economic skills, such as data analysts (35% growth), financial analysts (8% growth), and management analysts (10% growth) over the next decade. Furthermore, the complexity of global markets, evolving regulatory environments, and the need for evidence-based policy-making in areas like environmental sustainability and healthcare, all contribute to a sustained demand for individuals with strong economic reasoning and analytical capabilities. Graduates from Roosevelt University's program, particularly with its potential for personalized learning and urban networking, are well-positioned to meet this demand in diverse fields ranging from finance and consulting to government and non-profit organizations.

How does Roosevelt University's Economics. program compare to others?

Roosevelt University's Economics program, with its reported 4 annual completions, stands out primarily due to its intimate scale. This small program size likely translates into significantly smaller class sizes, fostering a highly personalized learning environment where students can expect more direct interaction with faculty, individualized mentorship, and greater opportunities for collaborative research. In contrast, larger university programs might offer a broader range of specialized courses or more extensive research facilities but often come with larger lecture halls and less one-on-one faculty access. Roosevelt's urban location in Chicago also offers unique advantages, providing access to a vibrant economic hub for internships, networking, and applied learning experiences that might differ from programs in more rural or suburban settings. While specific earnings data for Roosevelt's graduates is unavailable, the quality of the education, combined with the personalized attention, can equip graduates with a strong skill set comparable to national averages. The program's distinctiveness lies in its potential for a deeply engaging and tailored academic journey, which can be a significant advantage for students who thrive in close-knit academic communities.

What are the admission requirements for Economics. at Roosevelt University?

While specific admission requirements for the Economics program itself are typically aligned with general undergraduate admission standards for Roosevelt University, prospective students should generally prepare to demonstrate academic readiness and a strong interest in the field. Common requirements include a completed application form, official high school transcripts showcasing a solid academic record (often with a minimum GPA, though this can vary), and standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), although many universities are now test-optional. A strong performance in high school mathematics courses, such as algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus, is highly recommended as it forms a crucial foundation for economic studies. Additionally, applicants may be asked to submit an essay or personal statement, which provides an opportunity to articulate their interest in Economics, their career aspirations, and how Roosevelt University aligns with their goals. Letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors can further strengthen an application. For students considering this program, focusing on quantitative coursework and clearly expressing their analytical aptitude and intellectual curiosity in their application materials will be beneficial.

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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.