This program integrates a core business curriculum with the study of economics as a social science. Business courses include accounting, finance, management, marketing, supply chain management and data analytics. Building off this foundation, you’ll delve into micro- and macroeconomic theory, applying these theories to practical problems through statistical analysis.
Additionally, you’ll develop skills to model economic phenomena using algebra, calculus and statistics. You’ll also explore topics ranging from pricing strategy and cost-benefit analysis to environmental policy impact and international exchange rates. Elective courses allow you to explore specialized areas, such as international, financial, labor and development economics.
How this program compares to our liberal arts economics degree
ASU’s online business and liberal arts economics programs both explore how society deals with scarcity and require mathematical and statistical aptitude. However, the program you choose will depend on your interests and career goals.
This online business economics degree is ideal if you’re interested in career paths that draw from practical business knowledge, especially economic theory. As a graduate, you’ll be well-prepared for positions within banking and finance, government, public policy and other fields that demand analytical and quantitative skills.
Alternatively, you may pursue ASU’s liberal arts economics degree online if you’re passionate about economics, but want more flexibility in elective courses. While the economics curriculum is identical, you do not need to complete the business core. This program is a great option if you want to combine economics studies with another field in preparation to work in law, government, politics and more.

Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Science in economics online prepares future business leaders with the theoretical and empirical tools to evaluate the decisions of individuals, firms and governments. You’ll learn to address economic and financial issues while sharpening your business acumen. As a graduate, you’ll be a standout candidate for competitive positions in banking and finance, as well as graduate programs in economics, business and law.
Through rigorous economics and core business courses, you’ll refine your quantitative, analytical, critical thinking and communication skills. You’ll also gain a deep understanding of how to apply economic theory to modern business concerns. Course topics range from applied regression analysis and international trade theory to econometrics and applied complex analysis. Outside of required courses, you’re encouraged to tailor your program by taking an array of industry-related electives.
The W. P. Carey School of Business faculty is passionate about innovative research and impact. Our school fosters an environment of global thinking, with a cohort of award-winning faculty from six continents around the globe and a student body that represents more than 100 countries. Faculty accolades include:
- National Academy of Sciences members.
- Renowned journal publications.
- Speakers at national conferences.
The W. P. Carey School of Business is one of the top business schools in the country. Our AACSB-accredited business school is committed to delivering excellent quality and value. Our U.S. News & World Report rankings reflect our commitment to academics, groundbreaking research and positive student outcomes.
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First-year applicants who meet the requirements for ASU first-year student admission and also meet one of the following criteria may be directly admitted to a W. P. Carey School of Business Bachelor of Science degree program:
- An SAT Reasoning score of 1230* (taken March 2016 and after).
- An SAT Reasoning score of 1160* (taken prior to March 2016).
- An ACT composite score of 25*.
- A high school class ranking in the top 8%.
- An overall, unweighted high school GPA of 3.40 in competency courses defined by ASU (4.00 = A).
*The written portion of these tests are not required.
Transfer applicants who meet the ASU transfer student admission requirements and also meet one of the following criteria may be directly admitted to a W. P. Carey School of Business Bachelor of Science degree program:
- An SAT Reasoning score of 1230* (taken March 2016 and after).
- An SAT Reasoning score of 1160* (taken prior to March 2016).
- An ACT composite score of 25*.
- A high school class ranking in the top 8%.
- An overall, unweighted high school GPA of 3.40 in competency courses defined by ASU (4.00 = A).
*The written portion of these tests are not required.
Additionally, you must have a 3.00 cumulative ASU GPA (if you’ve attended ASU) and a 3.00 cumulative transfer GPA (if you’ve attended another institution).
Note: Special consideration will be given to students not meeting the above requirement who have not taken university-level coursework within the past five years.
If you don't meet the requirements for admission to a W. P. Carey degree program, you may submit an admission portfolio for review. Please note that this is a competitive process and admission is not guaranteed. Preference will be given to students with at least a 3.00 cumulative ASU GPA and/or transfer GPA. Students are only allowed a maximum of two application attempts via Admission Portfolio/Concurrent Degree Request. All admission portfolio/concurrent degree request decisions are final.
Before submitting your admission portfolio, please make sure you meet all of the following requirements:
Admitted to ASU.
- In good academic standing if you are currently enrolled at ASU.
- Completion of 30 semester hours of college coursework with a “C” (2.00) grade or higher, including the following skill courses or their equivalents:
- CIS 105/236 (or equivalent) Computer Applications and Information Technology.
- MAT 210/270 (or equivalent) Brief Calculus/Calculus with Analytic Geometry.
- MAT 211/271 (or equivalent) Math for Business Analysis/Calculus with Analytic Geometry II.
- ACC 231/232/261 (or equivalent) Uses of Accounting Information I/Financial Accounting I.
- ECN 221/213 (or equivalent) Microeconomic Principles or ECN 212/214 (or equivalent) Microeconomic Principles.
- Completion of or current enrollment in the following courses or their equivalents:
- ECN 211/213 (or equivalent) Macroeconomic Principles or ECN 212/214 (or equivalent) Microeconomic Principles.
- ECN 221/231 (or equivalent) Business Statistics.
- ACC 241/242/271 (or equivalent) Uses of Accounting Information II/Managerial Accounting I.
Complete the admission portfolio/concurrent degree request online.
- Submit official or unofficial transcripts of all coursework not yet on file with ASU. If you are currently enrolled in coursework away from ASU, please submit a copy of your class schedule.
Are you interested in challenging yourself academically by adding honors to your studies? Join Barrett, The Honors College to elevate your undergraduate experience and enhance your degree.
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”