Tulane vs Washington University in St. Louis for economics: which is better for undergrads?

For undergraduate economics, Washington University in St. Louis usually has the edge if you want the more academically intensive econ environment and broader access to quantitative coursework, research, and business-adjacent opportunities. WashU’s economics department is well established, the university has a very strong overall academic reputation, and students can often connect econ with areas like math, data, public policy, and finance. That combination tends to matter if you may want grad school, consulting, finance, or more analytical policy work.

WashU fits students who want a campus culture centered more heavily on academics and who are excited by a structured, high-achieving environment. For economics specifically, that often translates into stronger peer energy around internships, faculty research, and advanced classes.

Tulane makes more sense for a student who wants economics in a college experience that feels more flexible, socially vibrant, and city-connected in a different way. Tulane’s econ program is solid, and New Orleans can be a real asset if you are interested in urban issues, public policy, hospitality-related economics, or community-based work. Tulane is especially appealing if you value service learning, a lively campus culture, and a school where it may feel easier to carve out a multidimensional undergraduate life rather than being surrounded by as much academic intensity.

If your main question is which school gives the stronger undergraduate economics platform on its own, I would lean WashU. For most students prioritizing economics first, though, WashU is the more convincing option.