Studying Economics in Canada: Programs, Math Demands and Careers

How economics is studied in Canada

Economics is a social science offered at almost every Canadian university, usually as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and, at some schools, as a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or within a faculty of social science. You can typically take it as a general/major degree, a more in-depth honours or "specialist" degree, and often in a co-op version that alternates study with paid work terms.

The honours or specialist route adds more advanced theory and quantitative courses and is commonly the expected preparation for graduate study in economics. The exact stream names and requirements are set by each department and published in the academic calendar.

• General/major economics: broad coverage of micro and macroeconomics
• Honours/specialist economics: more advanced theory and quantitative depth
• Co-op economics: study alternated with paid work terms
• Some universities offer economics as a BSc as well as a BA

The math behind economics

Economics is more quantitative than many other social sciences. Programs commonly expect or require calculus and statistics, and upper-year courses often use mathematical modelling and econometrics (statistical analysis of economic data). The more specialized the stream, the heavier the math tends to be.

If your math background is limited, look closely at the listed prerequisites before choosing a stream, and check whether the university offers introductory or bridging math courses. Specific prerequisite courses and any required grades are set by the department, so confirm them in the official calendar.

• Calculus and statistics are common prerequisites or early requirements
• Upper years often use econometrics and mathematical modelling
• Specialist/honours streams are usually the most quantitative
• Check listed prerequisites before committing to a stream

Common joint and combined majors

Economics pairs well with several subjects, and many Canadian universities offer joint or combined majors. Frequent combinations include economics with mathematics (strong preparation for graduate economics), economics with finance or commerce, economics with political science (useful for policy), and economics with statistics or computer science.

These combinations broaden your skill set and can open different career and graduate directions. The available pairings and how the credits are split are defined by the faculty, so review the official program structure when planning.

Where an economics degree leads

Economics graduates work across many sectors — banking and finance, data and analytics, consulting, business, public policy, government, research, and international organizations. The quantitative training and ability to analyse data and incentives are widely transferable.

Many students who want research, policy-analysis or academic roles continue to graduate study (a master's or doctoral degree) in economics or a related field. Career outcomes depend on your courses, skills and experience; no program guarantees a specific role or salary.

For international students

Economics is a standard undergraduate program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). A co-op stream can include paid work terms, which have their own permit considerations for international students.

This is general information, not immigration advice. Work and study-permit rules — including co-op work permits and off-campus work — change, so verify current requirements on the official Government of Canada (IRCC) website before you act.