Major in Economics
Our department has identified five specific learning goals for our majors. First, they will learn economic theory. Second, they will become familiar with statistical analysis and be able to construct and test rigorous models of individual and aggregate behavior. Third, they will learn how to interpret empirical results in the context of competing explanations. Fourth, they will understand the role of public policy in addressing economic problems. Lastly, they will be able to analyze effectively economic phenomena and to clearly communicate that analysis.
Students majoring in economics may choose from one of two options:
Plan I. General Economics.
Eleven courses are required in addition to the senior exercise. These courses include the required core, i.e., 51, 52, 57, 101, 102, 107 or 167, plus five upper-division courses in Economics (numbered 116 and above) At least two of the five upper-division courses must be numbered 150 or above. One accounting course may be counted as an elective. Completion of at least one course in calculus (MATH 30 or higher) is required for all Economics majors.
Plan II. Mathematical Economics.
Thirteen courses are required in addition to the senior exercise. The required Economics courses include the core, i.e., 51, 52, 57, 101, 102 and 167, and four upper-division courses, at least two of which must be either 154, 161, 162, 163 or164. One accounting course may be counted as an elective. The mathematics requirement may be fulfilled with a course in multivariate calculus (such as MATH 32 or 107), MATH 60 and any one of the following mathematics courses: 101, 102, 131, 151, 183, or 187.
Economics and Mathematics courses offered for completion of the Economics major (Plan I or II) must be taken for a letter grade. Courses taken on a P/NC basis are not acceptable in fulfillment of major requirements. A grade of “C-” or better in required core courses is required for majors in the field. In both Plans, students who got a 4 or 5 on both the Microeconomics and Macroeconomics AP exams may skip 51 or 52.
Senior Exercise.
Both Plan I and Plan II culminate in a senior exercise that consists of 190: Senior Seminar, and 195: Senior Activity. December graduates should enroll in Econ 195 only in the fall; and spring graduates should enroll only in the spring.
Public Policy Analysis, Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, and Gender and Women’s Studies:
Economics can also be selected as an area of concentration within three other majors: Public Policy Analysis (PPA); Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE); and Gender & Women’s Studies (GWS). Those who are interested should see the relevant program description and consult with their advisers.
Requirements for The Minor in Economics
Eight courses are required: 51, 52, 57, 101, 102, and three electives. At least one elective must be numbered 150 or above. Economics courses offered for completion of the economics minor must be taken on a regular graded basis. Courses taken on a P/NC basis are not acceptable in fulfillment of minor requirements. A grade of “C” or better in required core courses is required for minors.
More Information for Majors
Recommended Programs: 57 is highly recommended before taking upper division courses numbered 116 or higher. Economics majors should attempt to complete 101, 102 and 107 or 167, before taking their elective upper-division courses. Students who plan to spend a semester abroad are encouraged to take 101, 102, 107 and at least one course in a field of interest before going overseas.