Economics makes the world go around. It’s the study of how people use available resources and make decisions about them. Of course, finance and wealth are part of the picture, but there’s much more to it than that.
Economists look at the whole picture: production, distribution and consumption of goods and services. Then, they lead the way in analyzing all of the relevant data in light of the world situation to facilitate wise decision-making.
An economics degree can lead to business, finance, law or government positions in the global market. The myriad of career paths available to economics majors are virtually limitless and include the fields of economic research, financial consulting, investment analytics, financial planning, economic consulting, banking, economic planning as well as alternative career paths such as private business ownership, politics or law.
Our program assures students develop the essential analytical and problem-solving skills to be successful economists. It combines practical experience with wide-ranging and diverse opportunities.
We deliver a well-rounded education that melds classroom experience, personal mentorship, registered student organization options, hands-on learning and internships to pave the way to a lucrative career in the diverse field of economics.
WHAT WE OFFER
When you study economics at SIU, it's not just about the numbers. We help you to propel yourself into a competitive position by forming relationships that matter: Resources & Opportunities; Faculty mentors and advisors; For-credit internships (3 credit hours); Generous scholarships available based on academic performance; Economics Club & Honor Society; Preparation for graduate school via advanced courses (optional).
MORE THAN A HEAD FOR NUMBERS
The Economics program makes its home in the College of Business and Analytics. You can draw from its wide array of complementary classes and minors to shape the program that's exactly right for you and your interests.
January 2026
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
1263 Lincoln Drive,
CARBONDALE,
Illinois,
62901, Midwest, United States
June 2025
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
1263 Lincoln Drive,
CARBONDALE,
Illinois,
62901, Midwest, United States
Students need to have Transcripts from high school and/or college. At SIU Carbondale, applicants for admission will be eligible for automatic admission if they are on track to complete our course pattern requirements and who meet one of the following criteria: A cumulative high school GPA of 2.75; A ranking in the top 10% of their graduating class.
English Language Requirement: Any one of the following methods will automatically meet the minimum English requirement. Applicants who do not meet the automatic English language admission requirement will undergo a holistic review to determine potential admissibility.
TOEFL (IBT internet-based test) - 68
TOEFL (paper based test) - 520
ITEP - 4.0 (academic plus only)
IELTS - 6.0
2 Face-to-face English composition classes taken in the U.S. at the college level with a grade of A or B
More than 48 college-level credit hours completed at a U.S. institution
If an applicant is from a country whose primary language is English
Graduation from a U.S. high school having spent the final 2 years in the U.S.
Meeting the SAT or ACT requirements for admission of domestic freshmen
Duolingo English Test (accepted during COVID-19 closures)- 95
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
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