Undergraduate Program

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Studying economics at MIT

We are proud to offer one of the most rigorous undergraduate economics programs in the US. No matter where you want to go next, our program will provide a challenging intellectual environment to help you build essential skills for a wide variety of fulfilling and interesting career choices.

Majoring in economics

We offer three majors:

  • Economics Major (14-1) — Explores theoretical and applied topics in microeconomics and macroeconomics, provides training in statistics and econometrics, and offers advanced courses spanning a range of fields
  • Mathematical Economics Major (14-2) — Begins with foundational training in microeconomics and macroeconomics before focusing intensively on technical and mathematical subjects
  • Computer Science, Economics, and Data Science (6-14) — Offered jointly with Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, applies methods derived from economic analysis, computing, optimization, and data science to real-world challenges.
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Minoring or concentrating in economics 

By completing a minor, you can explore the field of economics and combine these skills with your primary major. The Economics minor consists of six subjects arranged into three levels of study.

Economics courses can be used to complete the Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (HASS) concentration requirement. We offer two concentration options that each require three subjects:

  • Economics and SHASS — Provides a background in economics fundamentals 
  • Development Economics — Focused on how economics can be used to shape policies designed to remedy massive and persistent world poverty
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Research and career development 

Research opportunities

We believe that experience with actual economic research is a vital component of MIT Economics training. In addition to completing a thesis, Economics majors can gain experience through:

  • Required Project Lab, with focused study of an applied economics question
  • The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP), where you can hone your research skills by working directly with faculty members on their ongoing research projects
  • Summer employment experiences on research projects directed by faculty members in the department, or through summer internships in government, industry, or research organization
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Undergraduate Economics Association 

The Undergraduate Economics Association (UEA) is a group of undergraduates interested in economics who meet regularly to support academic endeavors, improve employment opportunities, and expand networks within and beyond MIT. They provide peer support and host various events and opportunities over the course of the academic year.

Get involved with the UEA