Be an Economist (and be less stressed!)

A favourite question I am often asked by prospective Economics students (and their families) is 'what career can I have with an Economics qualification?' My stock answer generally revolves around the phrase 'the world's your oyster' as I would go on to explain that alongside the practical insight into how the economy and the world generally ticks, Economics students learn to critically appraise issues that are presented and develop a more analytical approach to problem solving. What career doesn't need those skills?

I don't recall, however, suggesting that an Economics student could go on and become an..... Economist. I've certainly never suggested that an Economics student can become an Economics teacher!

Well, it seems that these may be very good suggestions if you are looking for a career that is relatively well-paid whilst having low levels of stress. According to a survey conducted by the 'Business Insider' journal, being an Economist would rank in their top 25 jobs that, with the right qualifications, can achieve the ideal situation of earning well whilst having relatively little stress. The full list can be found on the Business Insider website.

Of course, this does add as a timely reminder to our students when they are considering the factors that impact on the relative elasticity of demand (and supply) of individual occupations, levels of stress have a part to play (and can be used as part of such an analysis).

For the record, the list does include 'Economics Teacher' but only at Higher Education level.