<p>Hi, I am an international student applying ED to NYU for Fall 2012. I have a great interest in Economics, it is definitly a passion I wish to pursue whole heartedly in the future. However, I'm skeptical about the benefits of majoring in Economics. How are the internship/future job opportunities as a CAS Econ major compared to getting a business degree from Stern? </p>
<p>Also, do private universities like NYU favor international students over American locals or is that just a rumor?</p>
<p>Yes, an Econ degree from NYU is useful. You won’t have a problem finding internships, etc. NYU has one of the best Econ programs in the country (From Stern or CAS). </p>
<p>Most American schools favor US students over Foreign students. So yes, what you’ve heard is in fact a rumor.</p>
<p>When it comes down to the actual Stern or CAS degree in economics, you will get a quality education and should not have a hard time standing out. The difference in terms of career opportunities however is definitely apparent. I have known a number of CAS students who compete with Sternies for career placement and do well. However that number is extremely small compared to the number of total CAS econ students. If you are looking for a career in a large bank you will have to do a lot of the recruitment on your own as a CAS student and you will lack the network that you build at Stern.</p>
<p>In short, if you are able to do extremely well in CAS Econ (top 10% or so) you will have the qualifications. You will have to take the extra step in building your interview skills and recruiting networks that you would otherwise gain at Stern.</p>
<p>I would also disagree regarding preference for US vs international students. In public universities there is most definitely a preference for local students. However in private universities where tuition is growing nearly 5% a year, you will notice a large population of international students who are forced to pay the full freight.</p>
<p>You’ll get a comparable education. You won’t have comparable career opportunities within finance. I can’t speak about other industries because I have no experience with them.</p>