Economics Major (BA) - Behavioral Economics Concentration

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Economics is a social science related to business in the same way that physics is related to biology or medicine. It focuses on the principles underlying the operation of the economy. Students who enjoy abstract analysis will find the economics major interesting and challenging. Study of mathematics is a useful adjunct and is essential for students planning graduate study in this field. The economics major prepares students for analytical occupations, typically in business, or for graduate work in law, economics, public policy or related fields.

Economics Major Requirements

One course chosen from the following:

One statistics course chosen from the following:

One communication course chosen from the following:

Electives:

Choose four courses from the following list, at least three must be ECON courses.

Behavioral Economics Concentration

The Behavioral Economics Concentration is open to students majoring in Economics or Psychology.

Human decision-making is nuanced and complex. Over the last few decades, psychologists and economists have forged a new area of study – behavioral economics – to better understand and predict judgment and decisions. This field combines ideas and methods from economics, psychology, and neuroscience to create a more complete view of human behavior. A growing number of employers are seeking to use behavioral economics to inform their policies and practices. Insights are being applied to a wide range of contexts and industries, including health care, education, personal finance, advertising, and public policy.

In the interdisciplinary concentration in behavioral economics, students will learn core theories and methods in economics and psychology, then integrate and apply this knowledge through applied projects. Students will design field and laboratory experiments, informed by behavioral theory, and analyze data for insights. Each student will also design a research project that explores an area of judgment and behavior, tailored to their personal interests and goals. Students can pair this concentration with a BA in Psychology or a BA in Economics.

Concentration Requirements

Statistics (select one):

One of the following:

Note

Computer programming is strongly recommended but not required. MATH 1170 is not required of students who complete 1180 or other higher-level math courses. A student planning to do graduate study in economics should complete MATH 1180: Calculus II, 3320: Multivariable and Vector Calculus, and 3330: Linear Algebra.