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What Deters Women from Economics

Author

Listed:
  • Kristy Buzard
  • Katelyn Cranney
  • Laura K. Gee
  • Olga Stoddard

Abstract

We survey undergraduate students at two US universities to investigate the perceptions of the economics major by gender. Women report a significantly lower interest in economics relative to men. In exploring potential mechanisms, we find that women anticipate being less likely to succeed in the economics major and less likely to enjoy their coursework and the subsequent career path. Concerns that deter women from studying economics include math being too difficult, economics being boring, getting good grades, and being a good fit for the major. Finally, we observe stark gender differences in the topics that students are interested in.

Suggested Citation

  • Kristy Buzard & Katelyn Cranney & Laura K. Gee & Olga Stoddard, 2025. "What Deters Women from Economics," AEA Papers and Proceedings, American Economic Association, vol. 115, pages 659-663, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:aea:apandp:v:115:y:2025:p:659-63
    DOI: 10.1257/pandp.20251094
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • A11 - General Economics and Teaching - - General Economics - - - Role of Economics; Role of Economists
    • A22 - General Economics and Teaching - - Economic Education and Teaching of Economics - - - Undergraduate
    • I23 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Higher Education; Research Institutions
    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination

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