According to its Greek origins,
the word “economics”
described the management
of a person’s household.
While today’s economists
may study individual behavior,
or broaden their focus to communities,
countries, and even global patterns,
the field still pursues the improvement
of conditions for people’s lives.
Economists study the patterns of production,
distribution, and consumption of resources,
goods, and services.
They conduct surveys, analyze data,
and communicate their findings
in reports and charts
to make the data understandable to others.
Economists work in fields from education
to health and the environment.
They may study the psychological
and social factors
of economic decision making,
analyze savings, investments and risk,
study international trade,
or focus on the economic role of government
It’s common for economists
to study historical trends
to forecast future patterns.
Math skills are essential.
Most economists work in an office,
generally full time,
although a deadline can require
more than 40 hours per week
until it’s met.
While they mostly work independently,
many economists collaborate
and work in teams with other economists
and statisticians.
A master’s degree or Ph.D. is required
for most economist positions.
A bachelor’s degree in economics
may qualify candidates
for some entry-level economist positions,
especially with government offices,
or for jobs as research assistants
or analysts in business, finance, and consulting.