Economics Program "Economic literacy is crucial because it is a measure of whether people understand the forces that significantly affect the quality of their lives...." Gary Stern, President, Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis Economists work with issues involving how a society uses its resources such as people, land, raw materials and equipment, to produce goods and services and how it distributes those goods and services.   Economists are employed by colleges and universities, businesses, banks and other financial institutions, governments, special interest groups, and national and international agencies to conduct research by collecting and analyzing data, analyzing trends and creating projections or forecasts. An economist’s research can focus on one firm or one market or on national and global issues such as inflation, unemployment, economic growth, and international trade.  Many economists specialize as Micro-economists, Industrial economists, Macro-economists, Financial economists, International economists, Demographic economists, and Econometricians. Beginning positions include tasks such as computer modeling, report writing, collecting data, preparing statistical charts, and basic research. With further experience and advanced degrees, more opportunities involving leadership and advanced management positions may become available.  Dependant on the position, travel may be involved for research purposes. To view further information on Careers in Economics, click on Career Facts. To view specific degrees and courses, click on Curriculum.