Economics: Principles and Practices © 2008

"Learning About an Occupation"

Introduction
The freedom to make our own economic decisions, including our occupations, employers, and when and where we work, is one of our most cherished freedoms. Information available on the World Wide Web makes these choices increasingly easier to explore. One useful source is the Occupational Outlook Handbook from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. It has detailed information on hundreds of occupations—from "able seamen" to "zoologists"—including job descriptions, earnings, job outlooks, and educational requirements. It is never too early to think about an occupation. The Handbook may even help you to decide which courses you want to take before you graduate. One occupation you might want to consider is that of an economist. Economists have one of the higher paying jobs in the economy and it's a career worth considering.

Destination Title: Occupational Outlook Handbook

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Directions
Start at the Occupational Outlook Handbook home page.

• Click on "A-Z index" at the menu at the top of your screen.
• Select the letter "E".
• Scroll down untill you find the listing for "Economists" and select the link.

1			Read the description under "Nature of the Work." Then, describe several aspects of the job that appeal to you.
2			If you were to decide to become an economist, what other academic disciplines would you have to study in college? Why is this so?
3			Where do economists find employment, and what salaries can economists expect to make?
4			What are the opportunity costs that you are likely to encounter if you decide to become an economist?