How challenging is the economics major?

Currently a junior in high school and thinking ahead: I've heard people say that economics is an 'easy' major, but I feel like that's an overgeneralization. Can anyone who's an econ major let me know what the workload is like and how difficult the classes are compared to other majors?

You're right that it's not accurate to label economics as an "easy" major outright because the workload and difficulty of the classes can vary significantly based on the college or university, along with an individual's strengths and interests. In general, economics is a rigorous major that combines mathematical skills with a deep understanding of human behavior, market systems, and policy.

At the introductory level, economics courses usually start with principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics. These classes are more conceptual and may be seen as less challenging compared to upper-level courses. However, as you progress through the major, the coursework tends to become more quantitative and analytical, with courses like econometrics, microeconomic theory, and macroeconomic theory. These upper-level courses often require strong mathematical skills, including calculus and linear algebra.

Economics also encompasses a variety of sub-disciplines, many of which you can explore through elective courses. The workload and difficulty may vary depending on the classes you choose, as areas like behavioral economics and development economics can be different from classes focusing on financial economics or international trade.

Compared to other majors, economics can be as challenging or more challenging than some, depending on the institution and the individual student's strengths. It may be worth noting that some students find the workload more manageable when compared to majors with intensive lab components such as chemistry or biology. Ultimately, the best way to gauge the difficulty of an economics major is by speaking with students or professors who have firsthand experience at the college or university you're interested in.

In conclusion, while economics may not be an "easy" major, it offers the opportunity to develop valuable skills, including critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving, that can be applied to various careers and fields. The workload and difficulty of the major depend on factors such as the institution you attend, your personal strengths, and the specific economics courses you select.