Undergraduate Program

Economics analyzes the ways in which societies decide what to produce, how to produce it, and who gets it. Because it deals with these fundamental issues of our material well-being, it sheds light on the reasons why some societies are rich and others are poor.  This also makes it a powerful tool for analyzing the costs and benefits of decisions, whether they are made by governments, business, or individuals.

The Economics Major prepares students for a wide array of careers in business, government, education, law, journalism, non-profits, and elsewhere.   Economics majors find employment in financial services, marketing, retail, transportation, management,  policy analysis, teaching, and other fields.  It also serves as an excellent major for law school or other professional training.

Students may elect to take either the general economics major, or one of three specializations:  (1) Emphasis in International Economics, (2) Emphasis in Pre-Professional Studies, and (3) Specialization in Quantitative Analysis.  The general major provides a well-rounded liberal arts background in economics that is excellent preparation for wide range of career options.  The Emphasis in International Economics is designed for students wanting to focus on international issues and who seek careers in international policy or in internationally-oriented enterprises.  The Emphasis in Pre-Professional Studies is designed for students interested in law school, business administration, health administration, or education administration. The Specialization in Quantitative Analysis is designed for students wanting to go to graduate school in Economics, or who seek a more rigorous quantitative background.

The general economics degree and all three specializations require lower division coursework consisting of Principles of Economics (Micro and Macro), introductory accounting, introductory statistics, beginning calculus, and computer applications.  The Emphasis in Pre-Professional Studies also requires an introductory course in communication.  For more information about requirements for the major, please see the Frequently Asked Questions page.

The specific courses that must be taken to satisfy these requirements vary slightly by emphasis, and all students should meet with an advisor as soon as they can.  Economic advising is every day on a drop-in basis; you do not need an appointment.  You can pick up a list of advisors and their current office hours in the Economics Department office, located in Adams Humanities 4209, or view the current advising schedule.

>>View the Current Class Schedule

>>Special Study Registration Form (.pdf)