This advanced economics course gives senior undergraduate students hands-on experience solving real-world business and policy problems through applied economic research. Students work in small consulting-style teams to deliver evidence-based insights and actionable recommendations tailored to your organization’s needs.

• Working under the guidance of a faculty advisor, each student team partners with an organization to co-design a research question and carry out an in-depth analysis using economic frameworks and data tools.

Time Commitment

• 35 hours per student (approx. 175 hours per team of 5)
• Minimal time required from your organization:
• 1 initial kickoff call with instructor and/or student team
• Periodic email check-ins (approx. 2–3 during the project)
• Optional feedback session at the final presentation

How Students Will Support Your Organization

Students will:

• Co-define a relevant business or policy question in collaboration with your organization.
• Conduct a competitive landscape or market analysis using economic theory and secondary data.
• Review and synthesize key literature or industry research to identify trends, benchmarks, and best practices.
• Apply analytical tools and techniques (e.g., regression analysis, cost-benefit analysis, impact evaluation) to assess problems and opportunities.
• Develop actionable, evidence-based recommendations to support business decisions or policy advocacy.

Deliverables

• Custom research report with executive summary, analysis, and recommendations
• Slide deck and 10-minute presentation summarizing key findings
• Optional appendix with technical details, data sources, or models used