How to Become a Business Economist?
Your ultimate guide to becoming a business economist understand the steps, eligibility, and opportunities that await in this rewarding field
In this Career Outline
Introduction to Business Economist
"Economics is not just about numbers and theories; it’s about understanding how decisions shape our world. A deep knowledge of financial markets, data analysis, and economic impact is crucial for anyone looking to make a meaningful difference in this field."
Imagine stepping into a world where your analytical skills shape the economic strategies of companies and governments alike. Becoming a business economist allows you to blend your passion for economics with practical business insights. From understanding market trends to forecasting economic shifts, this role is pivotal in today’s data-driven world. In this guide, we’ll explore how you can carve out a successful career in business economics, the steps involved, and what it takes to excel in this dynamic field.
Steps to Become a Business Economist:
Step-1
Start with a bachelor's degree in economics, finance, or a related field.
Step-2
Enroll in a master’s program in economics or business economics to gain advanced knowledge and specialization.
Step-3
Prepare for and pass entrance exams like GRE or GMAT, if required for your chosen postgraduate program.
Step-4
Look for internships or work opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge and gain practical experience.
Step-5
Cultivate strong analytical and statistical skills to analyze economic data effectively.
Step-6
Keep abreast of current economic trends and policies to provide relevant insights and advice.
Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Must possess at least 50% aggregate marks in 12th grade from a recognized board (PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC, etc.). |
| Educational Background | Undergraduate Degree in Economics, Finance, or related field. |
| Undergraduate Degree | Bachelor’s Degree in Economics, Finance, or a similar field. |
| Postgraduate Degree | Master’s Degree in Economics, Business Economics, or a related field. |
| Entrance Exams | GRE or GMAT (if required by postgraduate program). |
- Must possess at least 50% aggregate from a recognized institution in 12th, from any board PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC, etc. However, the cut-off margin varies with the selection process of different colleges.
- One must acquire a degree/diploma or certification in a recognized establishment to become an Economist. This is a basic qualification you must require to enroll in this line of work.
- Entrance exams after 12th GRE or GMAT if required by postgraduate program.
- An MA/MBA in Economics can also prove to be helpful while looking for a higher degree and extensive learning.
Not eligible to pursue this career?
Find out different career options based on your current academic accomplishments. Enquire with our career experts and build a roadmap to your career success!
Tasks to perform as a Business Economist:
Knowledge & Skills Required
Business Economist require a diverse range of skills to excel in their positions. Here are the key knowledge areas and skills needed to excel in this field:
| Knowledge Required | |
|---|---|
| In-depth understanding of microeconomics and macroeconomics, including concepts like supply and demand, market equilibrium, inflation, and economic growth. | Understanding of financial markets, instruments, and corporate finance to evaluate the economic consequences of financial decisions. |
| Understanding of global trade, exchange rates, and international economic policies and their impact on local economies. | Basic understanding of how psychological factors affect economic decisions, which can be crucial for market analysis and consumer behavior studies. |
| Expertise in statistical analysis, econometrics, and the use of software such as Stata, R, or SAS for data analysis. | Insight into various markets (e.g., labor, financial, commodity markets) and the ability to interpret economic indicators such as GDP, CPI, and unemployment rates. |
| Skills Required | |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail | Team Collaboration |
| Adaptability | Research Skills |
| Technical Skills | Communication Skills |
| Critical Thinking | Analytical Skills |
Understanding What are soft skills? and why is it important,as they complement technical abilities and enhance overall performance in the field of Business Economist.
The Knowlegde and Skills don't intrigue you?
The reason is that your interests don't align with this career. Identify your interests and match them with careers that require those skills. This alignment will help you grow and succeed in your career faster than you might expect!
Job roles offered for a Business Economist:
Once you procure the required qualifications for becoming a Business Economist, a myriad of options are open to you. There are multiple projects you can undertake throughout this line of work, and there are many other fields you can branch out to.
Economists analyze the relationship between wealth and development in various societies, from small communities to global systems. They use their expertise to influence policies on interest rates, taxes, employment, and international trade. Their work includes developing market analyses, conducting surveys, interpreting data, and presenting findings through reports, graphs, and maps. Economists also forecast industry trends, advise on policy, and publish their insights in academic and mainstream outlets.
Chief Investment Officers (CIOs) oversee a company's investment strategies, developing plans to maximize shareholder returns. They manage teams that analyze assets and allocate securities, and they report to their organization's board. CIOs may work in investment firms, financial institutions, or corporate settings, and they often travel to meet stakeholders and external vendors.
Policy analysts influence public and legislative awareness on various issues. They conduct research, review policies, assess new laws' impacts, and publish findings. Some specialize in specific areas, combining office research with fieldwork. They are passionate about advocacy and skilled at presenting complex information clearly.
Pricing analysts help companies set competitive prices by analyzing data and developing pricing models. They consider factors like competition, market conditions, and customer behavior. Working across industries, they collaborate with sales and marketing teams to create strategies that enhance market share and profitability.
Financial analysts evaluate a company's financial status, analyze economic trends, and provide insights for decision-making. They assess market conditions and company financials, often working beyond traditional banking roles. With backgrounds in business or accounting, they play a crucial role in guiding financial and operational strategies.
Not sure where you fit in?
With the wide variety of careers and job roles available, pinpointing the best option for you can be challenging. Thorough analysis and dedicated sessions can provide clarity on what to study, which industry and role to pursue, and the most suitable career path to follow.
Career Opportunities for a Business Economist:
Business Economists can opt for various fields of work in the companies listed below:
| Quona Capital | Kotak Mahindra Bank | The Economist Intelligence Unit (The EIU) |
| Myntra | Accenture | GreyB |
| Oracle | INDIAN OVERSEAS BANK | iRageCapital Advisory Private Limited |
| Boston Consulting Group (BCG) |
Colleges offering courses for Business Economist:
Here is the list of colleges offering the Best courses after 12th:
| Lady Shri Ram College, New Delhi | St. Xavier's College, Kolkata |
| Loyola College, Chennai | Christ University, Bangalore |
| Presidency University, Kolkata | Madras Christian College, Chennai |
| A.V. College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Hyderabad | Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad |
| St. Andrew's College of Arts Science and Commerce, Mumbai | National Post Graduate College, Lucknow |
End Note
Pursuing a career as a business economist offers numerous opportunities to impact economic strategies and decision-making. By following the necessary steps and acquiring the right qualifications and skills, you can set yourself up for success in this exciting field. For personalized career guidance and Career counselling after graduation, connect with our experts at SetMyCareer. We're here to support you in reaching your career goals!
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