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CIP 52.0808 Business

Public Finance

IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education · 2025

Total graduates

25

2025 · 1 schools

International share

24.0%

6 international students

Bachelor's degrees

20

5.0% international

Master's degrees

5

100.0% international

Overview

Public Finance is a vital area of study within economics that focuses on the role of the government in the economy. It examines how government spending and taxation affect the economy, public welfare, and the distribution of resources. Students in this field learn about various aspects of public finance, including revenue generation through taxes, the impact of government expenditure on economic growth, and strategies for efficient public budgeting.

The curriculum typically covers topics such as fiscal policy, public debt management, social welfare programs, and the evaluation of government projects and initiatives. Students also analyze how public finance interacts with broader economic factors, including inflation, unemployment, and economic inequality.

Public Finance is essential for understanding the implications of government policies on citizens' lives and the economy as a whole. Graduates in this field often pursue careers in government agencies, non-profit organizations, international organizations, and private sector firms, where they can apply their analytical skills to address public issues. They may work as budget analysts, policy advisors, or financial examiners, contributing to the development and implementation of effective fiscal policies.

The field is increasingly important in today's world, as governments face complex challenges related to economic recovery, healthcare funding, infrastructure investment, and climate change. As such, Public Finance equips students with the tools to critically analyze and influence fiscal policies that shape the future of society. Overall, it is a dynamic and impactful area of study that plays a crucial role in promoting economic stability and social equity.

Graduates by year

Graduates by degree level (first and second majors)

AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral

From 2003 to 2025, graduates grew 525% and the international share went from 0.0% to 24.0%.

International share (%)
Graduates by group, 2025
White
48.0%
Asian
4.0%
Hispanic
12.0%
Black
4.0%
Other
8.0%
Intl.
24.0%

Colleges that award this degree

In 2025, 1 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.

RankSchoolStateGraduatesInternational
— Niagara University New York 25 6

Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.

Related jobs and pay

OccupationUS employmentMean hourly wageMean annual wage
Financial Managers 841,710 $89.86 $186,910
Financial and Investment Analysts 361,980 $56.15 $116,800
Business Teachers, Postsecondary 82,150 — $114,720
Financial Risk Specialists 63,850 $59.82 $124,420
Budget Analysts 47,160 $46.33 $96,370

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.

Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2003–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.