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Learn economics online

Dive into edX's expert-taught, online economics courses to learn the basics and decide what education you need to reach your career goals.

Key takeaways

  • Explore edX online economics courses to learn supply, demand, and resource allocation fundamentals.
  • Build analytical, problem-solving, and personal finance skills while preparing for roles with median salaries up to $125,770 (BLS 2024).
  • Start with topic-specific courses, study economic theories, and develop math skills like statistics and calculus for advancement.

Popular online economics courses with certificates

What is economics?

Economics is the study of how goods and services are produced, distributed, and consumed, and how the factors that affect supply and demand shape markets. It examines how markets work, how wealth is distributed, and how scarce resources are allocated. While the stock market can reflect the economy, economics seeks to understand more broadly how people, businesses, and countries choose to spend their money.

Economic theory is widely studied worldwide by researchers seeking to understand better the impact of certain policies or shocks on the economy. What is the effect of rising gas prices on household spending? How does incurring larger debt affect an individual's long-term financial health? Will spending on government health care programs cause inflation? Researchers and economists aim to answer these kinds of questions using economic theories, historical trends, and data sets.

Why learn economics?

  • Many economics careers feature a higher-than-average median salary.
  • Developing personal finance skills may make you more financially secure.
  • Studying economics helps you develop in-demand analytical and problem-solving skills relevant to many career paths.

Browse online Economics Certificates

Find new interests and advance your career opportunities

Stand out in your field

Use the knowledge and skills you have gained to drive impact at work and grow your career.

Learn at your own pace

On your computer, tablet or phone, online courses make learning flexible to fit your busy life.

Earn a valuable credential

Showcase your key skills and valuable knowledge.

Certificates

Careers you can pursue with an economics background

A bachelor's or master's in economics trains you for careers like those below. These and other jobs may require a degree and significant relevant experience.

Actuary

Actuaries use their background in economics and statistics to determine the probability of events that may negatively impact their employer.

  • Required education: Bachelor's degree
  • Median annual salary (2024): $125,770

Why learn economics online with edX

edX helps learners around the world grow their skills and careers. Join our learning community today!

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Steps to get started in economics

Take individual edX courses to explore economics topics, study the latest theories, and learn the math skills you might need for a career or degree.

1. Take economics courses on different topics

Make a list of potential subjects you're interested in before committing to any course or class. Doing so can help you save money on college courses, certificates, or executive education programs. Once you have a list of topics, choose the course type that best meets your needs.

Featured courses


Explore economics programs

Frequently asked questions

Are economists still in demand?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the need for economists to grow by 1% between 2024 and 2034, lower than the average for all U.S. careers. Fortunately, this projection does not apply to all economics-related jobs. The BLS projects the actuarial field to grow by 22% between 2024 and 2034, well above the average.

What is the best way to learn economics?

The answer depends on your goals. Earn a bachelor's or master's in economics if you want to qualify for entry-level positions. Taking individual edX courses can help you better understand your economic decisions and place within the broader economy.

Is an economics major worth it?

Earning a bachelor's in economics offers many potential benefits, such as higher salary potential and the development of many transferable skills. Even if you pursue a career in a different field, majoring in economics can help you make better financial and investment decisions.