Javascript is currently not supported, or is disabled by this browser. Please enable Javascript for full functionality.

   
    Mar 28, 2024  
2022-2023 Undergraduate Bulletin 
    
2022-2023 Undergraduate Bulletin [Archived Bulletin]

Economics Major (BA)


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 majors have the option to complete an interdisciplinary concentration in behavioral economics or public policy. See below for details.

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.

Optional Interdisciplinary Concentrations


Students pursuing an economics major may also choose to complete an interdisciplinary concentration in behavioral economics or public policy.

Behavioral Economics Concentration


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.

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

Public Policy Concentration


The public policy concentration educates students about public policy and helps them to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to create innovative, socially responsible solutions to the most critical issues facing society. The program forms an arc, beginning with an introduction to ethical public policy, building skills with methodology coursework, and culminating with a capstone experience in which students engage directly with a public policy issue in a semester-long applied project or internship. Students will acquire an extensive set of skills in policy evaluation and analysis, equipping them to become agents of change to improve the quality of life for people and their communities, at home and abroad. The public policy concentration is open to students majoring in Criminology and Criminal Justice , Economics , Environmental Studies , Legal Studies , Political Science , or Public Health Science