Economics, BA

Economics is a social science and, as such, an important component of the liberal arts curriculum. At the core of economics are theories of how individuals, firms, and other organizations make choices and interact, taking into account constraints on their behaviors. Among the topics studied in economics are the determination of prices and quantities in various types of markets (from perfectly competitive commodity markets to highly regulated utility markets and internet auctions); the effects of taxes, subsidies, and regulations; the determination of aggregate economic activity (e.g., GDP, unemployment); inflation, monetary policy, and financial intermediation; economic growth and income distribution; and international trade and international finance (e.g., exchange rates). The Economics Major provides training in economic principles and provides a useful background for students preparing for a career in public policy, business, or finance.