Economics (Honors) Stanford University

Overview

The Economics (Honors) at Stanford University is a prestigious academic track designed for students who wish to pursue a more in-depth study of the field than the standard major allows. This programme empowers undergraduates to engage in sophisticated independent research, fostering creativity and academic excellence through a structured year-long thesis project.

Participants in this programme benefit from the department's dual mission of providing world-class training in modern economic ideas while pushing the frontiers of knowledge through applied research. Students receive dedicated guidance from faculty members and affiliated researchers, ensuring their work meets the highest professional standards. The department also hosts an annual Research Symposium where candidates present their findings.

Why Economics (Honors) at Stanford University?

The programme is hosted within the School of Humanities and Sciences, offering access to the renowned Landau Economics Building and its extensive academic resources. Students benefit from a vibrant intellectual community that includes numerous specialised seminars covering fields such as Econometrics, International Trade, and Game Theory. These gatherings allow undergraduates to interact with leading scholars and postdoctoral fellows.

A distinctive feature of the programme is the opportunity to compete for prestigious prizes awarded for extraordinary oral presentations during the spring quarter. Additionally, the university provides competitive funding grants to help cover research expenses, ensuring that students have the financial support necessary to undertake ambitious data collection or fieldwork for their senior theses.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 22577 per semester
• National fee: USD 22577 per semester
• Local fee: USD 21709 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of all standard major requirements plus additional advanced units. Modules may include:

• Econometrics
• Upper division Economics
• Thesis Research
• Honors Program Director Section

Students must complete specific advanced coursework by the end of their junior year to ensure they possess the analytical tools required for their research. The final year is dedicated to the thesis, which replaces certain standard requirements while increasing the total unit count to 85 for the BAH or 90 for the BSH.

Careers with Economics (Honors)

Graduates from this programme are exceptionally well-prepared for diverse professional pathways and advanced academic pursuits. The rigorous focus on independent research and data analysis makes candidates highly attractive to employers in sectors such as finance, environmental policy, and international trade. Many students use the honors track as a definitive stepping stone toward competitive Ph.D. programmes.

The skills gained in presenting complex information at the Honors Research Symposium prepare graduates for roles in economic consultancy, government agencies, and non-governmental organisations. By working closely with the department's placement resources, students can transition into influential positions where they apply modern economic methods to solve real-world challenges across various global industries.