Economics

Economics Statement of Philosophy:

The study of economics is part of the traditional liberal arts and offers the student a knowledge of andappreciation for the complexities of the human experience. Economics, with its roots in philosophy. studiesthe decision-making behavior of individuals, firms, national economies, and other economic groups. It is animportant field of study for those who wish to be educated citizens in today’s world.

The purpose of Central’s economics program is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding ofeconomic theory and mastery of the important methodologies, including quantitative analysis of business/economic decisions. Students acquire the ability to apply economic theory to contemporary issues and toutilize its tools in the search for solutions to daily problems. The faculty actively involve students in the learning process.

Majors in economics take courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics plus a minimum of five additional courses at the 300-400 level. Students are encouraged to study at one of Central’s international centers and/or in the Chicago program and to extend their education beyond the classroom through internships, involvement in the Economics Club and other co-curricular activities on campus.

Most Central economics majors enter the business world upon graduation. Because economics provides a strong background for many different graduate and professional programs, many also go on to acquire advanced degrees in economics, law, business and public administration.

Typical sequence of MAJOR courses for the economics major:(44 study hour minimum)

Freshman Year:

  • ECON112 Principles of Microeconomics
  • ECON113 Principles of Macroeconomics
  • MATH131 Calculus I
  • COSC106 Introduction to Web Programming
    -OR-
  • -COSC110 Introduction to Computer Science

Sophomore Year:

  • ECON212 Intermediate Microeconomics
  • ECON213 Intermediate Macroeconomics
  • MATH105 Introduction to Statistics

Junior and/or Senior Years:

  • ECON281 Research Methods in Economics
  • ECON485 Senior Research Seminar

Plus five courses from 300- or 400-level courses in Economics:

  • ECON321 Environmental Economics
  • ECON322 International Economics
  • ECON323 Labor Economics
  • ECON324 Monetary Theory & the Financial System
  • ECON325 Public Finance
  • ECON326 Public Choice
  • ECON327 International Finance
  • ECON329 Economic Development
  • ECON330 Economic History
  • Also accepted as upper-level electives include:
  • MATH330 Mathematical Modeling
  • POLS341 International Political Economy

All economics majors must complete the department’s communication skills endorsement. Click here for information on the department’s CSE.