Economics Department

In the WSU Economics program, students build a solid foundation in both business and liberal arts.

Economics majors develop strong analytical and communication skills, which are important for entry-level positions and future advancement. Students will acquire the quantitative and computer skills necessary to solve complex business problems.

Economics students also learn strong critical thinking skills that will be beneficial in your career and many other aspects of life. 

Economists study how society distributes scarce resources such as land, labor, and capital to produce goods and services. They conduct research, collect, and analyze data, monitor economic cycles and trends, and make forecasts about crucial issues such as: 

  • GDP
  • Employment
  • Inflation
  • Interest rates
  • Tax
  • International trade
  • The environment 
  • Healthcare

Facts about the Economics Industry

  • Economics is the only social science for which a Nobel Prize is awarded
  • Economic policy is considered so vital that the President of the United States has his own prestigious Council of Economic Advisors
  • Every year, banks, corporations, government agencies, and international organizations like the World Bank hire thousands of economics majors
  • Students who get their undergraduate degree in economics have a high rate of success in graduate and law school
  • Economics majors are successful in numerous fields including finance, sales, manufacturing, education, politics, and international affairs
Contact the Economics Department
Rob Wolf

Department Chair

Somsen 311C

507.457.5195

Email Robert Wolf
Melissa Hamsund

Office Manager

Somsen Hall, Room 319

507.457.5165

Email Melissa Hamsund