Welcome to the Economics Community!
This community is your resource to explore the field of economics. This page will provide information that will assist your learning about the industry through events, online tools and curated news updates. Additionally, you can gain access to networking, internship and job opportunities to advance your career. We look forward to helping you make informed academic and professional decisions by finding meaningful ways to connect with the Economics Community at The W. A. Franke College of Business.
There are many different career paths for students to explore who are interested in Economics. Options include government agencies, international organizations, market research, banks, and consulting firms. Recruiting timelines for jobs and internships vary depending on the industry. It is important to build a company target list, or companies that you are interested in working for so that you do not miss important opportunities.
It is important to take proactive steps now to ensure success towards this professional goal. Begin by writing a résumé in order to increase your chances of getting an internship or first job. Your résumé should highlight your experience, showcase your hard and soft skills and connect your skills and abilities to the job market. A well-crafted résumé should help you stand out amongst others!
Schedule an appointment with one of our Career Coaches to help you along your path!
Build Your Competitive Edge: Beyond the Classroom
Standing out in today’s job market requires more than strong grades. Employers actively seek candidates who’ve gained practical experience and demonstrated initiative outside the classroom. Here’s how to build a compelling portfolio of experiences that will set you apart from other applicants. Don’t forget to add these to your résumé!
Don’t wait until graduation to start building your professional profile. The experiences you gain today become the competitive advantages that land you tomorrow’s opportunities.
Hands-On Experience Opportunities
Get real-world experience without leaving campus with Forage and Parker Dewey through this website. These platforms offer company-sponsored simulations and short-term projects that let you work on actual business challenges. Complete projects from top employers and add legitimate professional experience to your résumé.
Get started: frankecareer.nau.edu/experiences/
Your NAU email gives you free access to Udemy’s extensive library of industry-recognized certification courses. From digital marketing to data analysis, these credentials demonstrate your commitment to professional development and can significantly strengthen your candidacy.
Access training: in.nau.edu/its/udemy/
The internship application cycle starts earlier than most students realize. Many companies begin posting summer positions in August for the following year. Start your search early through Handshake to access exclusive opportunities and increase your chances of landing competitive positions.
Browse opportunities: nau.joinhandshake.com/explore
The field of economics is increasingly data-driven and technologically advanced. Here are some key technologies that graduating university students should be familiar with:
Core Economic Software
- Statistical software:Â R and Python are widely used for statistical analysis, data visualization, and econometric modeling.
- Spreadsheet software:Â Excel remains a valuable tool for basic data analysis and economic modeling.
Emerging Technologies
- Big data analytics:Â Economics graduates need to be able to analyze large datasets to identify trends and patterns.
- Machine learning:Â Machine learning algorithms can be used to predict economic outcomes and forecast trends.
- Artificial intelligence (AI):Â AI can automate tasks like data collection, analysis, and reporting.
- Cloud computing:Â Cloud-based platforms offer scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness for economic research and analysis.
- Geographical information systems (GIS):Â GIS can be used to analyze economic data based on location.
Additional Skills
- Data visualization:Â The ability to present economic data in a clear and understandable way is essential.
- Econometric modeling:Â Understanding econometric techniques is crucial for analyzing economic relationships and making predictions.
- Programming:Â Basic programming skills (Python, R) can be helpful for data analysis and automation.
By mastering these technologies and skills, economics graduates will be well-prepared to contribute to a data-driven and technologically advanced economy.
Access training through:
Join major-specific FCB student groups to build your professional network, develop leadership skills, and connect with industry professionals. These organizations often provide exclusive networking events, company visits, and mentorship opportunities.
Explore groups: frankecareer.nau.edu/organizations/
View a list of both on and off campus opportunities with NAU to start building your experience. These include hands on, real work situations that are gained through internships, externships, volunteering, case studies, project work and more. These experiences can be added to your résumé to show employers your skills.
Browse opportunities: https://frankecareer.nau.edu/resources/experiential-hands-on-learning-opportunities
The FCB CDO is here to support your journey:
- Discover opportunities that align with your career goals
- Review and refine your résumé to highlight new experiences
- Practice interview skills and build confidence
- Develop a strategic career plan that maximizes your potential
