Labor Economics

In the context of globalization and economic transformation, labor and employment issues have become critical factors influencing economic and social development. Labor Economics not only studies the factors affecting the labor market but also provides solutions for labor policies, income distribution, and human resource management. If you are passionate about economics and aspire to contribute to the sustainable development of the labor market, this major is the perfect choice for you.

Program Introduction

Labor Economics primarily studies labor market phenomena and related issues such as labor resource allocation, labor supply and demand, employment, wages, human capital investment, and income distribution. For example, it explores the factors behind labor market imbalances and how resource allocation can be optimized for efficient labor utilization.

Labor Economics is a branch of economics that examines the factors influencing labor supply and demand in the labor market and their interactions. The field covers topics such as labor supply, labor demand, employment, wages, human capital investment, unemployment, and income distribution.

In China, Labor Economics emerged relatively late, and its research level still lags behind international standards. There are only a few institutions dedicated to this discipline, which does not yet fully meet the needs of economic development.

As China's economy undergoes structural transformation, the country faces increasingly severe employment challenges. Issues such as employment, unemployment, and labor market development have become crucial topics in economic life.

Educational Objectives

The Labor Economics program aims to cultivate high-quality applied talents with strong political awareness, deep concern for labor issues, solid economic theory, and outstanding practical skills, meeting the needs of China's socialist market economy.

Through four years of specialized training, graduates will:

• Master fundamental methods in social research and data processing.

• Acquire skills in research, planning, evaluation, operations, consulting, and marketing in economic management fields.

• Be prepared to work in labor and social security departments of government agencies, engaging in talent planning and labor policy formulation.

• Be qualified for human resource management roles in various enterprises and institutions.

• Work in education and training companies, talent agencies, or pursue further studies in economics and related fields at universities in China or abroad.

Graduation Requirements

Graduates should acquire the following knowledge and abilities:

1. Mastery of fundamental economic theories, including Marxist economics and contemporary Western economic theories, as well as an understanding of the theoretical framework of Labor Economics.

2. Familiarity with national economic policies and regulations, as well as the principles, approaches, and policies used by the Chinese government in addressing labor economic issues.

3. Understanding of frontier economic theories and China's economic and social realities, particularly the key labor economic issues in China’s economic reform.

4. Proficiency in statistical and econometric analysis methods, allowing for research and analysis of real-world economic issues, with strong comprehension and analytical abilities in labor economics.

5. Ability to conduct independent or collaborative social research, along with basic data processing skills.

6. Initial capability in theoretical economic research, enabling work in labor economics-related fields with critical thinking skills to objectively address challenges in the workplace.

7. Strong learning, writing, verbal communication, interpersonal, and cross-cultural communication skills, along with competency in information technology and computing applications.

8. A well-rounded personality with strong social responsibility, ethical standards, and a practical and disciplined work ethic.

Core Courses

1. Microeconomics

2. Macroeconomics

3. Labor Economics

4. Human Resource Management

5. Econometrics

6. Python Data Analysis

7. Quantitative Data Analysis and Applications

8. Behavioral and Experimental Economics

9. Social Survey Design and Data Analysis

10. Income Distribution and Anti-Poverty Policies

11. Performance and Compensation

12. Labor Market and Public Policy

13. Personnel Management Economics

Research Directions in Labor Economics

• Labor Market Analysis: Studying labor supply and demand, employment and unemployment, and wage structures.

• Labor Policy Research: Examining the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of government labor policies.

• Human Resource Management: Investigating corporate HR strategies and practices.

• Social Security: Researching social insurance, unemployment benefits, pension systems, and other welfare policies.

• Labor Relations: Exploring the relationship between employers and employees and its management.

Degree Awarded

Students who complete all courses and academic requirements within the designated study period and meet the university’s degree-conferral standards will be awarded a Bachelor of Economics degree upon approval by the Academic Degree Committee.

Career Prospects

Graduates in Labor Economics can work in economic management departments, policy research institutions, financial institutions, and enterprises, engaging in economic analysis, forecasting, planning, and economic management.

Common Career Paths for Labor Economics Graduates

• Government Agencies: Departments of labor and social security, human resource management agencies.

• Enterprises: Human resources departments, labor relations departments.

• Research Institutions: Labor economics and social security research organizations.

• Universities and Research Institutions: Faculty and research roles.

Related Majors

• Economics

• Economic Statistics

• National Economic Management

• Resource and Environmental Economics

• Business Economics

• Energy Economics

• Economic Engineering

• Digital Economy

Ranking of Universities Offering Labor Economics

• Capital University of Economics and Business

• China University of Labor Relations

• Renmin University of China