Gearing Up for College Search: Best for Economics Major?

I'm a junior and pretty set on studying Economics in college. What are some competitive colleges that are known for their economics programs?

For students interested in an Economics major, there are several options of schools that are known for their top-notch programs. Naturally, the Ivy League schools often come to mind given their strong overall academic reputation.

Harvard University, for example, has an Economics department that's renowned worldwide. Econ is one of the most popular majors at Harvard, and many famous economists, including several Nobel laureates, have been associated with it.

Similarly, the University of Pennsylvania, especially through its Wharton School, has a strong focus on economics, particularly in business-oriented fields. UPenn provides a unique blend of theoretical economics with practical knowledge in sectors like banking, consulting, and finance.

Outside of the Ivies, the University of Chicago is especially known for its unique approach to economics. In fact, the economics program at UChicago is often considered one of the best in the world, having produced a significant number of Nobel laureates. They're known for their assertive, distinct approach, often described as the "Chicago School of Economics."

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is another option to consider. Their economics department is recognized globally for its research and thought leadership in numerous areas of economics.

Stanford University, too, offers a strong program, with many Econ majors later pursuing successful careers in business and tech, given its Silicon Valley location.

Of course there are many public schools with fantastic econ programs. These include schools such as University of Michigan, UNC Chapel Hill, or UCLA, which also have solid econ programs.

Finally, be sure to consider what kind of economics you want to study since programs can greatly vary in their focus - some more math heavy, some oriented towards economic policy, others leaning towards business economics, and so forth.