<p>U of Chicago is very well known for its Economics program. All students are required to take the “core”, which does give you a solid Liberal Arts educational foundation for any majors and future careers. It is an intellectually intense place, but for those who love to learn , above all else, Chicago cant be beat and is considered a “peer” to any of the top colleges on your list.</p>
<p>Claremont Mckenna , in S Calif, is known as a very good LAC with a strong Economics / Business program. It is part of the Claremont Consortium, a group of 5 small LAC’s with different specializations, all nestled together in the small “village” of Claremont in Northern LA, which is east of Pasadena. Students at any of the 5 colleges can cross register at other colleges for any classes their own college does not offer. The total student population of all 5 colleges is around 5000. Its a very nice place to go to college.</p>
<p>Neither are “safeties”, they would be more like a match Claremont] or a low reach[ U of C]</p>