Brown vs Yale for economics: which is better for an undergrad who wants to study econ?

For an undergraduate focused on economics, Yale is usually the stronger pick if you want a larger, more prominent econ department with especially deep preparation for research, policy, and PhD paths. Brown stands out more for a student who wants economics in a flexible, self-directed academic environment, especially if they expect to combine econ with something else through the Open Curriculum. Both can lead to strong internships and grad school outcomes, but they feel meaningfully different day to day.

Yale tends to fit the student who wants economics to sit near the center of their college experience. Its department has high visibility, a broad course lineup, and a strong connection to policy, quantitative work, and academic research. For undergrads, that often translates into more structured exposure to advanced economics, and a campus culture where economics is a very established path.

Brown is especially appealing for the student who does not want distribution requirements shaping their schedule. The Open Curriculum makes it easier to build an economics path around applied math, computer science, public policy, philosophy, environmental studies, or entrepreneurship without feeling boxed in. Brown’s economics department is excellent, but the bigger draw is often how easily you can customize the degree and pursue independent projects. If you are excited by designing your own academic mix, Brown has a real advantage.

For internships, neither school is weak, and a lot will come down to your initiative. Brown benefits from a collaborative culture and flexibility that can make it easier to pursue off-campus work during the year or shape your coursework around specific interests.

So the real distinction is this: Yale is a great match for the student who wants economics in a more robust, traditional, and research-rich setting, while Brown is compelling for someone who wants top-tier economics without giving up freedom to build an unconventional undergraduate experience.