Econ vs. Business (at UNC)

<p>Okay I've read all about the differences between the two majors but I want to know if anyone has some insight on the two programs at UNC. I'm considering an MBA but I'm not set on it. For undergrad, I definitely think I would prefer the Econ major. But entry into Kenan-Flager business school here is very competitive and a business degree from here would look great.</p>

<p>Basically I'm wondering - is it worth majoring in business over econ just because a business degree from UNC looks better? Even if I like econ more? Or is the difference between the two too trivial to matter? When applying to grad school will it make a difference, and what about for future employment post-grad school?</p>

<p>Thanks.</p>

<p>I believe people will tell you the same things that they have told everyone else:</p>

<p>(1) Where do you want to end up working? If you have a goal in mind, then major in whatever it takes to get to that goal.</p>

<p>(2) You already stated that you enjoy economics more. The common response immediately after reading your statement is to major in that.</p>

<p>I believe a lot of people would say that economics is a good preparation for graduate school, but if you enter the business school, then it depends on what you major in, and if you want to work straight out of undergrad or not. What is it, exactly, that you want?</p>

<p>That’s the problem - I’m not exactly sure. I may want to get my MBA but I’m not sure about it. If I decide not to then I will probably do something with economics. I guess I’m wondering if you can get into business grad school as an econ major? Like, what if I decide to major in econ but decide not to work in economics and get my MBA instead. Would it hinder my acceptance into grad school, and if I did get in would I be way behind the business majors? Basically, is it best to major in business for undergrad in order to get your MBA, or would econ be fine too?</p>

<p>I would like to take more courses and really get a feeling for what I want to do, but I have to apply to the business school next semester if I choose that path. I just don’t want to major in it and then be miserable for the next 2-3 years. But I still want to have the option of getting my MBA later.</p>

<p>Thanks for the response by the way.</p>

<p>If you don’t know exactly what you want then it would be a much better idea to major in economics.</p>

<p>You are always allowed to take extra classes, even if they are not directly related to your major, correct? If you like econ, major in it, and take some business classes as electives to “get a feel” of what those classes are like.</p>

<p>Also, you can always change your major.</p>

<p>As for your worry about majoring in economics to get into graduate school, I think it’s fine as long as you take those generally required courses of business majors. For example, if you were a math major, and you wanted to go to an engineering graduate school, you would take your major courses, and then take certain science courses to prepare you for engineering (obviously physics, chemistry, etc.). I don’t think it would hurt you in anyway for graduate school, but if you’re going study something way different in undergrad compared to grad, then take as many courses in that field that you will eventually study.</p>

<p>I don’t know if I’m just blabbering, but it seems like that’s the most rational decision to me.</p>

<p>Yeah what you’re saying makes sense. If I do Econ I’m definitely going with a business minor so I will have some business classes, just not as much as the majors. I actually can’t switch majors because you have to apply to the business school in the fall of sophomore year, and they only accept about 50% of applicants. If you don’t get in thats it, you can’t major in it (they take like 30 more applicants in the Spring but thats your last chance). So yeah I can’t really do Econ til my junior year and then decide to do business instead - I would’ve already missed the application deadline. </p>

<p>Switching from business to econ is an option though. It just entails having to go through the application process and I’m going to be stressed out about padding my resume before I apply. But I guess that kind of stuff will be useful later on and I’m going to have to do it eventually anyway. </p>

<p>So actually despite my laziness maybe I should start with business and switch to econ if I really hate it. Sounds like a good plan.</p>

<p>Thanks guys.</p>