First, some facts. Of the Economics graduates from North Carolina State University we've analyzed , here's how many have used (or NOT used) their degree in their career:
These are estimates based on AI analysis of 10 LinkedIn profiles (see below).
The verdict? Bad. Overall, with an average relevance score of 46%, Economics graduates from North Carolina State University have a substantially lower likelihood (-21%) of finding work in this field compared to the average graduate across all fields:
And for comparison, here's the chart for all profiles we've looked at across all degrees.
Also, after graduating, only 30% of these graduates have pursued further education other than another Bachelor's degree (such as a Masters degree or other), compared to the average across all profiles of 35%. This suggests a Bachelors degree is enough for most Economics graduates, and it's normal to look for work straight after graduation.
See the details:
Relevance score: 70%We think this person has gone into a career only somewhat relevant to their degree.DEGREE INFOGraduated in 2011 from North Carolina State University with a Bachelor's degree in Economics. Also pursued further education since (see below). JOB HISTORY SINCE GRADUATIONLawncare TechnicianFairway Green Mar 2011 - May 2013 Statistical Programmer Quintiles Jan 2015 - Aug 2017 Cavalry Scout North Carolina National Guard Nov 2011 - Nov 2017 Data Scientist Leo Burnett Aug 2017 - Aug 2019 Senior Data Scientist Energy BBDO Aug 2019 - May 2020 Data Scientist Mars Jun 2020 - Aug 2021 Senior Data Scientist Ferrara Aug 2021 - Sep 2022 Principal Data Scientist Oshkosh Corporation Sep 2022 - Present FURTHER DEGREES DONE SINCE GRADUATINGMaster's degreeNorth Carolina State University 2013 - 2014 ABOUTData Scientist experienced with predictive and prescriptive analysis. Skilled in R, SAS, SQL, Tableau, and learning Python. I have experience in forecasting, building predictive models, and distributing and analyzing surveys. Strong research professional with a Master's degree focused in Economics from North Carolina State University. |
The top 10 most common jobs done by the graduates we've analyzed (ranked most common to least) are:
When looking at the jobs held by graduates from North Carolina State University with a degree in Economics, a clear trend emerges. Many of them have ventured into data science and analytical roles, primarily as Data Scientists or Senior Data Scientists in various companies like Leo Burnett and Ferrara. These positions leverage their quantitative and statistical skills, which are fundamental aspects of an economics education. Additionally, some graduates have taken on roles in program management, community outreach, and even specific economic positions like an Associate Coastal Economist, where they directly apply economic principles. However, it's important to note that not every job aligns with the core concepts of their degree. Many have moved into roles such as project management or sales, which are more focused on operational tasks and may only touch on economic concepts occasionally.
Overall, while a significant number of graduates have found jobs that directly relate to their economics education, others have taken on positions that stray far from core economic theory and analysis. Jobs in sales, customer support, and administrative roles seem to dilute the relevance of their education, focusing more on the general skills of problem-solving or management rather than the specific applications of economic knowledge. This mix suggests that while economics provides valuable skills, it does not always dictate the career path, and graduates often branch out into varied fields where they might not fully utilize their degree.
Here is a visual representation of the most common words in job titles for Economics graduates (this is across all Economics graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to North Carolina State University):
When looking at the career trajectories of graduates from North Carolina State University with a degree in Economics, it seems like a mixed bag. Right out of school, many of these grads started off in roles that don't directly relate to economics, like lawn care technicians or community managers. However, as time went on, a significant number transitioned into positions that align more closely with their academic background—particularly in data science and economic research. For instance, those who graduated around 2011 and 2016 really made strides in the tech space, moving from entry-level data positions to senior and principal roles within just a few short years. This shows that while their first jobs might not have been directly related, they were able to leverage their degrees into thriving careers that utilize their analytical skills.
Fast forward five to ten years, and it's clear that some graduates are finding growth in sectors that value economic understanding. For example, roles in data science, project management, and economic analysis depict a pattern of upward mobility and specialization. Others have found fulfilling careers in non-profit sectors that may not tap directly into economics but still utilize transferable skills learned during their studies. However, not everyone has stayed closely tied to their degree. Some graduates veered into unrelated career paths, like aviation and administrative roles. Overall, it seems like if these graduates stay persistent and seek opportunities relevant to their field, they can achieve success and job satisfaction that aligns more with their economics training over time.
Honestly, a Bachelor’s degree in Economics can be a bit of a mixed bag at North Carolina State University, just like it is at many schools. It’s definitely not the easiest degree out there, but it's not the hardest either. You’ll dive into some complex topics like micro and macroeconomics, statistics, and econometrics, which can be pretty challenging if you’re not into math or analytical thinking. That said, if you're curious about how the economy works and enjoy problem-solving, you might find it interesting and manageable. You’ll need to stay on top of your studying, but with the right mindset and a good study routine, you can definitely tackle it!
Most commonly, in the LinkedIn profiles we've looked at, it takes people 4 years to finish a Bachelor degree in Economics.
So, looking at these NC State Economics grads, it seems like there's a pretty wide range in how much they might be making. The 2011 grad has climbed the ranks to become a Principal Data Scientist, which is probably pretty lucrative, while the 2014 grad has been sticking with the American Cancer Society and likely isn't raking in the big bucks. The 2015 grad seems to have found a sweet spot with Amazon Web Services, which usually pays well, especially as they moved into an Enterprise Account Executive role. The 2016 grads are mixed, with one doing cool economist stuff at NOAA – probably a stable job but may not be hugely rewarded financially. The 2018 grads, with one in aviation and another in administrative roles, also show a mix of potential pay. Finally, the recent graduates seem to be starting off strong with an investment banking gig, which typically pays well. Overall, some of these folks are probably doing pretty well, while others are still on the grind, trying to level up their earnings.
Here is a visual representation of the most common words seen in the "about" section of LinkedIn profiles who have a Bachelor degree in Economics (this is across all Economics graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to North Carolina State University). This may or may not be useful:
Here are all colleges offering a Bachelor degree in Economics (ordered by the average relevance score of their Economics graduates, best to worst) where we have analyzed at least 10 of their graduates: