Economics
ECON – Economics course descriptions
Faculty
Maggie Schlerman (chair), Graham Lemke, Ann McDonald, Tuan Nguyen, George Nwaogu, Julie Summers
Statement of philosophy
The study of economics is part of the traditional liberal arts and offers the student a knowledge of and appreciation for the complexities of the human experience. Economics studies the decision-making behavior of individuals, firms, national economies and other economic groups. It is an important 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 of economic theory and a mastery of the important methodologies. Students acquire the ability to apply economic theory to contemporary issues and to utilize its tools in the search for solutions to daily problems. The faculty seek to actively involve students in the learning process by placing them in situations in which they must make economic decisions.
Majors in economics take courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics and research methods, plus a minimum of five additional courses at the 300-400 level. Students are strongly encouraged to study abroad and/or in the Chicago program, and to extend their education beyond the classroom through internships, involvement in the EAM Club, Omicron Delta Epsilon and other co-curricular activities on campus.
Many Central economics majors enter the business world upon graduation; others begin careers in the government sector, working with such agencies as the Department of Labor or the Federal Reserve. In addition, a number of graduates go on to acquire graduate degrees in business, economics, law and public administration.
Economics Major Requirements (Minimum 50 credits)
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Complete all of the following:
ECON 112 Principles of Microeconomics (3)
ECON 113 Principles of Macroeconomics (3)
ECON 312 Microeconomic Theory (4)
ECON 313 Macroeconomic Theory (4)
ECON 381 Research Methods in Economics (4)
ECON 485 Economics Research Seminar (3)
MATH 131 Calculus I (4)
MATH 215 Applied Statistics (4) -
Complete one of the following:
COSC 109 Introduction to Information Management (3)
COSC 110 Introduction to Computer Science (3) - Complete one of the following:
COMM 160 Communication in Everyday Life (3)
COMM 270 Public Speaking (4) -
Complete 15 credits from 300- and 400-level courses in ECON.
MATH 330 Mathematical Modeling may also count.
ECON 397 does not count toward the economics major.
Economics Minor Requirements (18 credit minimum)
- Complete the following:
ECON 112 Principles of Microeconomics (3)
ECON 113 Principles of Macroeconomics (3) - Complete a minimum of 12 credits of additional ECON courses, chosen in consultation with an economics faculty member; 6 of these additional hours must be taken at the 300-level or higher.