Bachelor's Degree in Economics (Arts and Sciences)
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
The Economics program is ideal for students who are curious about how markets work, how policy decisions affect the economy, and how to use data to analyze real-world issues. It’s a great fit for those who enjoy problem-solving, critical thinking, and exploring the connections between people, businesses, and governments.
Program Overview
If you're interested in understanding how the world works—why markets rise and fall, how governments make policy decisions, or what drives consumer behavior—then the Economics bachelor's program may be the right fit for you. With both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degree options, this program offers the flexibility to focus on theoretical insights, policy analysis, or quantitative skills depending on your goals. You’ll learn to think critically, analyze data, and explore the forces that shape economies at the local, national, and global levels—skills that are valuable across a wide range of industries and professions.
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2026
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
The Economics program offers both a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree, allowing students to tailor their studies based on their academic interests and career goals. The BA option emphasizes economic theory and policy within a broader liberal arts framework, providing flexibility to explore interdisciplinary subjects. The BS option includes a stronger quantitative component, with additional coursework in mathematics and statistics for students interested in analytical and data-driven approaches. Across both pathways, students explore microeconomics, macroeconomics, international trade, public policy, and econometrics while developing strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
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Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
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