Education · 1 of 5

The path

A math-heavy economics degree, then a master's. A PhD for research jobs.

1. 1

   High school

   Grades 11 and 12

   Calculus and data management. Economics if your school offers it.

2. 2

   Bachelor's in economics

   4 years

   Choose the honours or specialist stream with the most math and statistics. Job Bank says a master's is usually required, so plan for it from year one.

3. 3

   Master's degree

   1 to 2 years

   An MA (Master of Arts) in economics is the standard entry ticket. Many are one year. Strong grades in undergrad theory and math courses get you in.

4. 4

   First job

   After the master's

   Federal recruitment programs, the Bank of Canada's student and graduate program, Statistics Canada, a provincial ministry, a bank, or a consulting firm.

5. 5

   PhD (optional)

   4 to 6 years

   Needed for university teaching and senior research roles at the Bank of Canada or think tanks.