Economics courses are an important element in a program of liberal education. They offer an understanding of how the economy operates and provide a basis for informed opinions on many public issues. In addition, there are varied employment opportunities for economists. Although employment as a professional economist generally requires a graduate degree, an undergraduate economics major provides good preparation for careers in government, business, organized labor, trade associations, or teaching in the social sciences. It also provides an excellent base for graduate work in the social sciences or professional programs such as law and business administration.
What is the difference between a B.A. and a B.S.?
For either degree, the Department of Economics provides students with a strong foundational knowledge of economics and the freedom to shape the focus of their degree through electives. This approach can help students succeed in a wide array of job fields! We offer two options for a degree in economics: the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) provides a broad education focused on the arts and humanities, and the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) presents a specialized approach with a stronger focus on technical and scientific areas. Both degrees have aspects of each other, which is why economics is a unique and holistic topic to study!
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Economics
The core curriculum includes introductory and intermediate courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics with an algebra-based approach. Additionally, an elementary econometrics course completes the core curriculum.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Economics
The core curriculum includes introductory and intermediate courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics with a calculus-based approach. Additionally, mathematics, statistics, and econometrics courses complete the core curriculum.
Minor in Economics
An economics minor is a good option for political science, journalism, communications, education, finance, management, or anybody who wants to learn how economics can affect their industry. An economics minor is a good choice because it prepares students for universal societal issues, and will help them better understand their part in the global economy.