Turning Points in Women's Interest in Economics: Evidence from Surveys of High School and College Students

Abstract

Women remain underrepresented in economics, making up less than one-third of undergraduate majors. Little is known about when gender gaps in interest and perceptions first appear. Using parallel surveys, we offer the first direct comparison of high school and college students' views. We find a small but significant high-school gender gap in interest in taking economics, which widens markedly in college. This expansion coincides with growing gaps in beliefs about what economics involves, while confidence differences do not increase. These patterns highlight key turning points and suggest that targeted outreach in high school and early college may be especially effective.

Kristy Buzard

Associate Professor of Economics

My current research focuses on the formation and maintenance of international trade agreements, conflict resolution, and innovation. I am particularly interested in the impact of international institutions, government structure and domestic political pressure on the possibilities for cooperation.