
Bachelor’s programs in economics are offered through both the Haslam College of Business and the College of Arts and Sciences. Our curriculum includes foundational theory, econometric tools for data analysis and many fields of applied economics. Explore how an economics major can be the foundation to many rewarding careers.
The Master of Arts in Economics program at Haslam equips students with advanced analytical tools and economic theories to address today’s business and policy challenges. Our program emphasizes hands-on learning, fostering expertise in data-driven decision-making and policy development.
Our faculty are dedicated to mentoring outstanding students pursuing a Ph.D. in economics. Our program includes advanced coursework in micro and macro theory, econometrics and many fields of specialization. Faculty work closely with students on research. Students have the opportunity to teach undergraduate classes, and many students work with faculty on funded research projects, often through the Boyd Center for Business and Economic Research and Baker Center for Public Policy.

The Haslam College of Business Department of Economics investigates current topics to produce top-tier research that helps to shape policy.
Our faculty are active in the Boyd Center for Business and Economic Research, the Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy and the Knoxville Economics Forum. We also operate the Experimental Economics Laboratory, which we use to collect data on human behavior.
Ranked #14 by US News & World Report as the Best Graduate School in 2024, the department regularly hosts visiting academics from the national and international stage.
Haslam economics professors conduct research at the Boyd Center for Business and Economic Research, as well as the Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy. These University of Tennessee centers provide research into current topics that helps to define the policy debate.
These are just a few of our rankings. To view all of our rankings, visit the page linked in the button below.

PhD Program Ranking
Among Public Universities
Haslam economics associate professor, James Lake, discusses how the new tarrifs will impact Tennessee.

The UT Experimental Economics Laboratory conducts research on a wide variety of topics, typically using computer-based simulations of decision environments. All undergraduate students regardless of their course of study are invited to sign up to participate in these experiments. No specialized knowledge is required. Individual participants earn money based on the decisions they and others make.
William F. Fox Distinguished Professor of Labor Economics
Celeste Carruthers is the William F. Fox Distinguished Professor of Labor Economics in the Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with a joint appointment in the…
Email: [email protected]
865-974-6000
Department Head and Professor
Fields of Interest: Microeconomic Theory, Industrial Organization, Game Theory, and Behavioral Economics Research Interests: Contract Design, Contest Theory, Regulation, Procrastination and Self-Control, Education and School Choice
Email: [email protected]
865-974-1696
Boyd Distinguished Professor
Donald Bruce is the Boyd Distinguished Professor in the Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee with a joint appointment as director of the Boyd Center for Business and…
Email: [email protected]
865-974-6088
Our Economics Spotlights feature the groundbreaking work and achievements of our students, faculty, and alumni. From innovative research to impactful community projects, these stories highlight how Haslam College of Business is shaping the future of economics and driving positive change locally and globally.

As the new director of the Boyd Center for Business and Economic Research, Bruce strives to put pertinent economic research in the hands of decision makers.
Don Bruce, Boyd Distinguished Professor, recently addressed the logic of the force reduction, implications for taxpayers and more.


Have questions or need assistance? The economics team is here to help. Whether you’re a prospective student, current student, or alumni, reach out to us, and we’ll respond as quickly as possible.