Economics Department of Economics "Economy is the art of making the most of life." - Gary Becker Welcome to the Department of Economics at Portland State UniversityWe are dedicated to fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of economic principles that shape our world. Our diverse faculty and innovative programs prepare students to tackle real-world challenges and make meaningful contributions to society.Whether you're an undergraduate exploring the foundations of economics, a graduate student pursuing advanced research, or a professional seeking to enhance your expertise, we offer a dynamic learning environment tailored to your goals. Join us in exploring the complex interplay of markets, policy, and human behavior that drives our global economy. Learn more about this content Join us for the upcoming Harold Vatter Memorial LectureThe annual Harold Vatter Memorial Lecture will be on Thursday, May 22 from 4-5:30 p.m. in SMSU 294. This year's speaker is Jeffry Frieden, Professor of International and Public Affairs and Political Science at Columbia University, and Professor of Government emeritus at Harvard University. His topic is very timely and is titled "Understanding the Backlash Against Globalization." The event is free and open the all students, faculty, staff and community members. Light refreshments will be served.For more information, please see our Vatter Memorial Lecture webpage. New degree: BA/BS in Business EconomicsThe Economics Department is proud to announce a new undergraduate degree - the BA/BS in Business Economics! This degree gets you ready for a career that involves applying economic theories and research methods to address challenges faced by businesses. With this degree, you can find opportunities in various industries, including business, finance, human resources, marketing, information technology, and sales. Graduates in Business Economics are in high demand in local, national, and international job markets. They are also well-equipped to face challenges in the global economy and have the skills to start their own businesses. Information about Business Economics degree about this content Undergraduate ProgramsBS/BA in Economics BS in Quantitative EconomicsBS/BA in Business EconomicsMinor in EconomicsMinor in Political EconomyCertificate in Institutional Economics Learn more about this content Graduate ProgramsMS in Applied Economics and Data AnalyticsGraduate Certificate in Environmental and Resource EconomicsGraduate Certificate in Sustainability Learn more about this content Undergraduate Economics advisingAre you a returning Economics major, minor or an incoming transfer student?The following economics faculty are available for undergraduate advising in Winter 2025:Professor Grace Arnold: email her for an appointment or come during office hours:Tuesdays 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.Wednesdays 12:30 p.m. -2 p.m.by appointmentProfessor Neal Becker: email him for an appointment or visit during office hours:Monday 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.Wednesday 3-4 p.m.Friday 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and by appointmentProfessor Rajiv Sharma: email him for an appointment or visit during office hours:NOTE: For the week on April 21, Professor Sharma will not have office hours on Thursday, but will be available Wednesday, April 23 from 12:30-1:30 p.m.Mondays 1:30-3:30 pm (in person)Thursdays 12:30-1:30 pm (on Zoom)by appointmentNew StudentsContact CUPA advisors by visiting the Urban, Public, and Global Affairs Pathway website. Graduate Economics AdvisingIf you have questions about our graduate programs, please contact:Cesar M Rodriguez, MS in Applied Economics and Data AnalyticsRandy Bluffstone, Environmental and Resource Economics CertificateSahan Dissanayake, Sustainability Certificate Our mission Our mission is to provide high-quality graduate and undergraduate education while generating top-notch applied and theoretical research that garners national recognition within a supportive academic community. Why Economics? What can I do with a degree in Economics? Economics Employers Private companies and government organizations Economists' skills are used in government agencies, businesses such as banking and finance, insurance, market research, and consulting firms, utilities, research research institutes, and education. Employers Department listservIf you would like news about seminars, events, and job opportunities, please join the PSU Department of Economics Google Group.