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The Economics Major
A major in economics requires the following courses:
- EC 101
- EC 102
- EC 206 or another acceptable statistics course
- EC 216
- EC 217
- EC 320
- EC 396
- EC 397
- Three 200-level elective courses in economics not including EC 240.
Other Useful Information
An advising checklist for the Economics major can be found here.
A variety of academic advising forms (add/drop, declaration of major) can be found here.
Why Major in Economics?
The economics major is intended for students:
- who seek the analytical skills and specific knowledge of economic processes necessary to be a responsible citizen;
- who desire economic understanding as a background for careers in business, labor, politics, law, finance, administration, or public service;
- who hope to continue specialized studies in economics or business at the graduate level; and
- who are preparing to teach social studies in the secondary schools. (For certification requirements, see the description under the Education Department.)
EC 101 is the starting point in the curriculum for both majors and non-majors. The course acquaints students with the techniques of economic analysis by emphasizing micro-aspects (decision making by firms and individuals) in the American economy.
EC 102 emphasizes the economy as a whole (macro), including the role of government through major financial institutions in determining the level of national product, income, and employment. EC 102 is also open to non-majors or pre-majors. Ordinarily majors must take EC 206 or the equivalent by the end of the junior year. Students may not take EC 206 if credit has already been received for MA 105 or 241 or equivalent. Those planning to major in eco- nomics are encouraged to complete EC 216 as soon as possible, because it provides the essential analytical skills used in most applied economics.
Recommended courses for students planning graduate studies in economics are:
- EC 218
- MA 170 (117)
- MA 180 (118)
- MA 231
The department also sponsors both full- and part-time internships in industry, banks, and government agencies. Most internships are in the Baltimore-Washington area.
Concentration in Prelaw Studies
Students interested in pursuing a legal career are encouraged to complete the prelaw concentration in conjunction with the requirements of the major. The prelaw concentration is an 18- to 21-credit program designed to broaden the student's academic experience in preparation for law school. It requires students to take courses outside of their major to expose them to methodologies and critical approaches not inherent to their own discipline but necessary for academic success in law school.A complete description can be found under prelaw studies.