Economics majors all take courses in two basic areas of economics: microeconomics and macroeconomics; and in statistics and mathematics, which are useful tools in the study of economics. The remaining courses are chosen by the students themselves, in accordance with their interests and career objectives. Every student takes at least four courses of his or her choice in Economics; these can be courses in methods or courses in applied areas. Every student also has the option of substituting a five-course collateral field composed of courses taken outside of Economics for two otherwise required courses in Economics, as described in “The Major,” item 7; and “The Collateral Field Option.” Examples of such fields are: history, international relations, business management, and political science.
The Department of Economics has faculty representing a wide range of specialties within economics, and a wide range of approaches to economics. All members of the faculty, which includes many internationally known scholars, teach undergraduate courses and are accessible to undergraduate students.

Career Opportunities

A substantial majority of economics majors seek employment after graduation. Placements typically include managerial, sales, and staff positions in many different sectors of the economy, including manufacturing, banking and finance, advertising, insurance, communication, wholesaling, retailing, social service, government, and non-profit institutions.