Major

The economics major is a flexible program that offers students a solid foundation in economics and the ability to pursue a variety of related interests. Our students have used this combination to build unique educational experiences, preparing themselves for work and graduate school.

A student majoring in economics will develop an understanding of economic theory and have the chance to apply it to practical and real life situations. The competencies achieved in the economics major are the ability to:

  • understand and explain general economic phenomena;
  • analyze and evaluate economic policy proposals;
  • analyze, synthesize and integrate economic ideas;
  • communicate effectively, in both oral and written form;
  • do quantitative research, using a statistical computer package;
  • engage in library research; and
  • conceive, plan and execute an independent quantitative research project.

In addition to the requirement of statistics, students majoring in economics are required to take a minimum of eight economics courses and Calculus I. All students will take:

  • Principles of Microeconomics (or Introductory Microeconomics of the Environment)
  • Principles of Macroeconomics
  • Intermediate Microeconomic Theory
  • Intermediate Macroeconomics
  • Four economics electives from a list of approved courses at the 300 level or above

Students must maintain a C average in upper level courses to successfully complete the major. Students can start their economics major in their First Year. This is the appropriate time to take Calculus I. A course sequence could include Principles of Microeconomics (or Introductory Microeconomics of the Environment), Principles of Macroeconomics, Statistical Methods, Intermediate Microeconomic Theory, and Intermediate Macroeconomics. Beyond this students can branch out to choose electives. Economics electives are available with a prerequisite of either of the appropriate entry-level Microeconomic or Macroeconomic courses and/or Statistical Methods.

Requirements for a minor in economics include EC 281S Principles of Microeconomics (or Introductory Microeconomics of the Environment), EC 282S Principles of Macroeconomics, and three upper level economics electives. One of the electives should be from a group of core micro or macro courses including EC 381 Intermediate Microeconomic Theory, EC 382 Intermediate Macroeconomics, EC 386 Money, Banking, & Financial Institutions, and EC 384 Managerial Economics.