How should I choose between Arizona State and Colgate for economics?

For economics, Colgate fits a student who wants a small, residential liberal-arts setting with close faculty access and discussion-heavy classes. Its economics major is embedded in a broad liberal-arts curriculum, so it is especially appealing for students who want to combine economics with political science, philosophy, mathematics, environmental studies, or a language. Colgate’s smaller scale can make it easier to build sustained relationships with professors, pursue research, and seek individualized guidance for graduate school or early-career recruiting.

Arizona State fits a student who wants a much larger university, a wider menu of courses and student organizations, and direct access to the Phoenix metropolitan economy. The greater Phoenix area also offers a larger local market for semester-long internships, although students need to be proactive about finding and pursuing them.

At Colgate, expect a more intimate undergraduate experience and a campus culture where most students live and participate on campus. At ASU, expect more independence: larger introductory classes are possible, but there are also many more pathways to tailor your experience through honors coursework, research, internships, clubs, and business-school programming.

For post-college plans, both can prepare you well, but the route differs. Colgate may be particularly compelling for a student seeking strong faculty mentorship, a tight alumni community, and a classic liberal-arts foundation before law school, policy work, graduate economics, or selective entry-level roles. ASU may be more compelling for someone eager to use a large professional network and gain experience in a major city while enrolled.

Compare the net cost carefully, since economics outcomes depend heavily on what you do in college rather than the course title alone. Also look at each school’s economics requirements, math expectations, undergraduate research options, and recent internship destinations.