The BA in Economics provides students with an intensive knowledge of the theory and practice of economics, with an emphasis on the analysis of contemporary policy challenges of Hawaiʻi and the U.S. in the Asia-Pacific region. Majors study a wide range of current economic policy issues and learn theoretical and empirical methods for analyzing these issues.

From raising living standards to designing policies that preserve the environment, economics provides powerful tools for understanding the most pressing policy issues of the day. Graduates go on to rewarding careers in academia, business, and the public sector. An economics degree is also excellent preparation for a range of career objectives, including graduate degrees in business, planning, public policy, and the law. The program's mission is to provide a high-quality educational experience that enables students to understand the range of economic challenges facing Hawaiʻi, the United States, and the Asia-Pacific region.

This baccalaureate program delivered through Distance Education has been established as a degree completion program for students who have ideally completed the first two years of coursework (freshman and sophomore) in-person or online at a community college in the UH system or from an accredited institution outside of the UH System.

As an option for students with no college credits, the College of Social Sciences Aloha Pathways Online program allows a student to complete the first two years of general education requirements online through a partnership with the Leeward Community College. The program allows students to smoothly transfer into the BA program at UHM and complete the major requirements. Qualifying students can have dual admissions and dual enrollment with UHM through the UH Kaʻieʻie Program.