Digital Economy

The rapid expansion of digital technology is reshaping how economies operate worldwide. Digital Economy is not just an academic field but the gateway to the new era of finance, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and blockchain. 

In an age where data is the most valuable resource, mastering digital economic principles and applying technology to big data analysis will be a key competitive advantage. If you are passionate about both economics and technology and want to stay ahead in the global digital revolution, this is the perfect major for you.

Program Introduction

The Digital Economy program is based on economics and emphasizes interdisciplinary integration with digital technologies. It serves the national digital economy development strategy, covering fundamental theories of digital economy, development trends and patterns, pathways for digital industrialization and industry digitalization, and mechanisms for digital governance. 

The digital economy is a key driver of global economic growth, and its scale and quality have become important indicators of international competitiveness. In recent years, governments worldwide have introduced strategic plans and policies to promote digital economy development, digital societies, and digital governance, with developed countries in Europe and North America striving to maintain their leadership in the global digital economy.

Educational Objectives

(1) Personal Qualities

1. Political and ethical qualities: Possess a scientific worldview and correct values; demonstrate patriotism, integrity, lawfulness, and respect for life; uphold social responsibility and teamwork spirit; maintain a positive and resilient attitude.

2. Cultural and scientific literacy: Have a strong foundation in humanities, arts, and global awareness; understand natural sciences and technological advancements, particularly in the digital economy.

3. Professional qualities: Possess solid expertise in economics and information technology; master data analysis methods and industry trends; demonstrate strong practical and collaborative skills.

4. Physical and mental well-being: Maintain a healthy lifestyle, physical fitness, and a balanced psychological outlook.

(2) Knowledge Requirements

1. Have a forward-looking understanding of economic theory, digital economy practices, and information technology developments.

2. Master fundamental theories and methodologies in economics, finance, statistics, and digital technology.

3. Be proficient in computer applications, internet technologies, and big data analytics, and use tools like data mining, business intelligence, and cloud computing for economic analysis.

(3) Skills and Competencies

1. Strategic thinking and innovation in a global digital business environment.

2. Mathematical and statistical analysis combined with computer science for decision-making.

3. Mastery of big data techniques, enabling analysis of business data, financial risk assessment, and digital financing.

4. Ability to conduct research on digital economy trends using advanced information retrieval techniques.

(4) Technical Skills

1. Strong economic modeling and quantitative analysis skills.

2. Proficiency in big data analytics, data mining, AI, and statistical tools.

3. Ability to work with data visualization tools, blockchain technologies, and machine learning applications.

4. Competency in at least one foreign language for professional communication.

Graduation Requirements

Graduates must systematically master the fundamental principles of economics, acquiring both theoretical and applied economic knowledge to construct economic models, conduct empirical research, and implement digital solutions. Key graduation requirements include:

1. Foundational knowledge: Proficiency in a foreign language and programming, modern IT skills, and interdisciplinary knowledge.

2. Professional expertise: Mastery of economic theories and their application in digital economies.

3. Problem-solving skills: Ability to analyze and address new economic phenomena emerging in the digital era.

4. Communication and expression: Strong written and oral communication skills for academic and professional discourse.

5. Critical thinking: Ability to challenge traditional economic theories and expand new digital economy paradigms.

6. Team collaboration: Effective teamwork and leadership in research and corporate environments.

7. Quantitative and analytical skills: Expertise in economic modeling, mathematical methods, and data analysis.

8. Global perspective: Understanding of global economic trends and China’s role in digital transformation.

9. Humanities and scientific literacy: Appreciation of Chinese and global cultural knowledge.

10. Social responsibility: Commitment to contributing to national and global economic development.

Core Courses

1. Microeconomics

2. Macroeconomics

3. Econometrics

4. Digital Economics

5. Digital Currency

6. Digital Trade

7. Digital Economy Regulation

8. Programming Fundamentals

9. Digital System Development Methods and Tools

10. Hadoop Technology Principles

11. Data Visualization

12. Data Mining

13. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning

14. Blockchain Principles and Applications

15. Data Structures & Algorithms

16. Contemporary Chinese Economy

17. Python for Big Data Analysis

18. Digital Economy Statistics

19. Game Theory & Information Economics

20. Time Series Analysis

21. Business Intelligence

22. Economy of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area

23. Data Processing & SPSS

24. Cross-border E-commerce

Research Directions in Digital Economy

The primary research areas in Digital Economy include:

• E-commerce & Digital Marketing: The impact of digital technology on business models and marketing strategies.

• Big Data & Business Intelligence: Utilizing big data for economic analysis and decision-making.

• Digital Finance & Fintech: The application of digital technology in financial services.

• Smart Manufacturing & Industry 4.0: The role of digitalization in manufacturing and industrial automation.

• Sharing Economy & Platform Economy: The transformation of traditional economic models through digital platforms.

Degree Awarded

Graduates of the Digital Economy program will be awarded a Bachelor of Economics degree.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Digital Economy program have vast career opportunities in:

• Digital operations and management in blockchain, AI, IoT, and e-commerce.

• Economic analysis, forecasting, planning, and management roles in government agencies, financial institutions, and enterprises.

• Advanced studies in economics, statistics, and computer science, pursuing master’s and Ph.D. degrees internationally.

Related Majors

• Economics

• Economic Statistics

• National Economic Management

• Resource and Environmental Economics

• Business Economics

• Energy Economics

• Labor Economics

• Economic Engineering

Ranking of Universities Offering Digital Economy

• Renmin University of China

• Nankai University

• Nanjing University

• University of International Business and Economics

• Beijing Normal University

• Southwestern University of Finance and Economics

• Hunan University

• Huazhong University of Science and Technology

• Harbin Institute of Technology

• Zhongnan University of Economics and Law

• Dongbei University of Finance and Economics

• Nanjing University of Finance and Economics

• Guangdong University of Foreign Studies

• Liaoning University

• Zhejiang University of Finance and Economics

• Anhui University

• Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics

• Beijing Jiaotong University

• Beijing Technology and Business University

• Guangzhou University

• Tianjin University of Finance and Economics

• Anhui University of Finance and Economics

• Guangdong University of Finance and Economics

• Zhejiang Gongshang University

• Hangzhou Normal University

• Hunan University of Science and Technology

• Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology

• Hunan University of Commerce

• Xi’an University of Finance and Economics

• Guangdong University of Technology