Economists look at markets and businesses to understand how they work on a local, national, or global scale. Or economists may work as financial analysts helping to understand where the money is. Or they may be managers who influence and direct people and processes. In short, if you like the business world and how it works, economics is where it starts.

What's different about it?

As an economics major at Mines, you'll take the same core courses as the engineers. By combining engineering with business, you get a broad and flexible education. From another perspective, you'll have the background to be a businessperson who knows how to make technology "happen."

The program is flexible. About 20 percent of your courses can come from any field. Some students use this to minor in engineering, computer science, or other areas, and some do a double major. As part of Mines Combined B.S./M.S. program, you can earn a B.S. in economics and an M.S. in engineering and technology management or mineral economics in just five years.

What can I do with it?

Mines economics grads have lots of opportunities. Some go on to graduate school in business, economics, or technical fields, while others take leadership roles in business -- serving as project managers, economic advisors, and financial analysts.