Where to study economics in the USA?

Economics is my intended major, and I'm curious about which universities in the USA have the best programs for this area of study. I prefer schools with a strong focus on research and internship opportunities in finance or government.

There are several universities in the USA renowned for their strong Economics programs, research focus, and associated internship opportunities.

Harvard University is recognized for its rigorous Economics program, which integrates research from the onset. The research ethos is supported by numerous research centers and programs, including the Harvard Institute of Economic Research and the Laboratory for Economic Applications and Policy.

Stanford University's Economics Department is another top choice, known for its research-oriented approach. They offer students opportunities to work as research assistants and have a plethora of research fellowships and grants available. Stanford's location also provides a unique opportunity for internships in tech companies, which can provide a unique perspective on economic practices in the tech industry.

The University of Chicago Economics department is also noteworthy. It's home to many Nobel laureates, and the department places a strong emphasis on research. Chicago’s Booth School of Business also offers finance-related internships and job opportunities.

Princeton University offers a great economics program with the Bendheim Center for Finance offering internships and research opportunities in finance, plus their Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy and Finance could provide openings in government.

MIT is known for encouraging students to delve into research projects and its location in Boston—a major hub for finance—provides numerous internship opportunities as well.

Keep in mind that each of these programs is highly competitive and admission will be contingent on a host of factors including academic achievement, test scores (if applicable), essays, and extracurricular involvement. So, whilst these are all excellent places to study economics, it would be wise to also consider other strong, but perhaps less known, economics programs where competition might be a bit less intense but the education quality and opportunities remain high.