How is Economics different from B.Com?

Both Economics and B.Com are excellent courses and have a wide scope of job opportunities in the corporate arena as well as in other fields of work. However, there are many students who find it hard to make the choice between Economics (Hons) and B.Com (Hons). The facts that both programmes attract commerce students aplenty, have a reputation of being the most sought-after and are counted among the toughest in Delhi University, add to their charm.

So, what is it exactly that must be your guiding light in deciding which programme is right for you? Blame it on the seeming similarities between the courses. But one informed glance at the distinctions can help resolve the dilemma.

Economics

Economics is the study of the world’s resources and the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. Economics is a more theoretical subject where you learn things like how the economy works, how inflation and how interest affect economies.

Economic studies are applied to practically all sectors such as health, education, agriculture, industry, law, energy, the environment, and other areas.

You can pursue an MA in economics and specialize in your area of interest such as business or micro economics, macro economics, industrial economics, development economics, or opt for business management, by pursuing a postgraduate degree or diploma course in business administration. Other options include banking, CA, company secretary, CFA, law and so on.

B.Com

B.Com (Bachelor of Commerce) is a more practical degree programme designed to inculcate business acumen in students. The course curriculum is designed to provide students with the fundamental concepts of accountancy, business administration, finance, economics and industrial policies, and helps develop a wide range of accounting and managerial skills.

Commerce opens jobs with corporations and banks as investment bankers, managers, financial consultants, accountants, advisors etc.

After B.Com, you can pursue a career in CA, ICWA, CS, business management, or insurance qualification. You could also go for other non commerce/ business related careers such as corporate law, hotel management, advertising, media planning and so on.

So, while you weigh the pros and cons of making the choice, ensure that the choice between B.Com and Economics should depend on which subject you prefer and are good at, and the kind of job and career goal you have for yourself.

With inputs from HT Education