A major in Economics provides students with tools that are helpful in understanding the complex economic forces at work in society. In part, this understanding comes from learning factual information about economic events and institutions. However, economic facts are best viewed through the lens of economic theory, while economic data should be evaluated using careful statistical analysis. The undergraduate major in Economics emphasizes applications of economic theory and analysis to a wide variety of real-world events and arrangements in both the private and public sectors. An Economics major is excellent preparation for direct entry into a career or for graduate work in economics, business, law, public administration, or international affairs. Students considering graduate school in economics are strongly encouraged to complete a minor or second major in mathematics as a strong background in mathematics is required for admittance to such programs. Please consult with the Economics faculty for suggestions on which mathematics electives would be most appropriate. Within economics, there are two possible majors: Economics, and Economics with Business Concentration. Students in both majors are required to complete the seven courses that make up the economics core, plus four to eight additional courses.
- ECO 115 is a prerequisite for ECO 215. ECO 115 is offered every semester while ECO 215 is only in the fall.
- Students considering graduate school in economics should take a number of mathematics courses. Please see the economics department chair for details.
- Students who plan to major in economics and minor in finance must take 3 courses in the minor that do not count toward major requirements. Please see the department chair to outline a course plan.
- Students who plan to double major in economics and finance must have 6 unique courses in each of the two majors that do not count towards the other. Please see the department chair to outline a course plan.
- While there is not a course devoted to internships, students may complete an internship for credit that may count as an economics elective.
- Study abroad coursework may count as economic electives with advanced permission.
- Honors students should consider taking electives as early as possible as this will help the thesis topic.
Required Courses (7 Courses)
Elective Courses (Choose 4 Courses)
Note: Calculus I (MAT 117 or 131) is a prerequisite for ECO 310 Microeconomic Theory. Additional mathematics courses beyond calculus are especially important for students considering graduate school in economics or business. A student who chooses to major in economics while minoring in finance will need to take a total of 14 courses.