
Why Major in Economics?
The study of economics provides a good background for
careers in business and government. It develops quantitative
and analytical skills which are applicable to many jobs.
Knowledge of economics is also essential for well-informed
citizens to participate responsibly in public debate and
decision-making on many issues. Because the range of interests
among economics majors is quite broad, students are encouraged
to work with a departmental advisor to discuss a plan
of studies that fits their individual needs.
Economics can be combined with business as a dual major
at the undergraduate level. A major in economics can also
provide a background for postgraduate study in law, business,
professional-level training in economics, public administration,
professional health management, hospital administration,
urban affairs, and transportation studies.
Here are some of our Frequently Asked Questions:
What kind of jobs are out there in the field of economics?
Students find that Economics provides a good preparation
for jobs such as: investment banker, statistician, budget
analyst, financial analyst, trade specialist, program
analyst, insurance broker, professor, revenue agent, consultant,
economic analyst, loan officer.
How can I combine the study of economics with another
field that interests me?
A number of students find that they are interested in
a double major. Among
the majors often combined with an economics major are
Computer Science, History, Philosophy, Political Science,
Psychology, Sociology and Mathematics. There is also a
joint major with Mathematics and a joint major with Statistics.
The joint majors
with Mathematics and with Statistics
were developed to provide students with a comprehensive
program that will prepare them for a quantitatively oriented
job in industry. These programs are also excellent preparation
for graduate study in economics, business, or statistics.
Many Economics major participate in the dual
major program with the College of Business Administration.
The dual major with business was developed to complement
the Economics major by providing students with skills
from Business Administration. It is a structured program
and students must apply for admission. The applications
are generally submitted in the fall of the sophomore year.
Guides to this program are available from the Economics
Advising office.
Which should I take first: Econ 0100 (Introduction to
Microeconomic Theory) or Econ 0110?
You can take either one first. Some people prefer to
start from the big picture (Econ 0110) and then examine
the details (Econ 0100). Others prefer to start with the
foundations (Econ 0100) and then build the whole edifice
(Econ 0110).
How much math will I need?
The B.A.
degree requires Math 120 (Business Calculus) and either
Stat 200 (Basic Applied Statistics) or Stat 1000 (Applied
Statistical Methods). The B.S.
degree requires Math 0220 and Math 0230 (Calculus
1 and 2), and Stat 1000. For many quantitative and analytical
degrees and for graduate school, more math and statistics
may be required.
Can I get a minor in Economics?
Yes. The minor
in Economics requires 15 credits. Choose one of Econ
0100, Econ 0110, Econ 1100 or Econ 1110, plus two Economics
electives.
|