The economics program develops a logical, consistent and rigorous method of thinking about the world and its problems. The economic way of thinking can be applied to a variety of topics including inflation, unemployment, international trade, poverty, income inequality, currency depreciation, monopoly power, bank failures, budget deficits and health-care costs.
The Department of Economics offers two majors and a minor in economics. All three programs are designed to provide excellent career-entry skills and those skills providing preparation for possible career shifts.
Whether a major or minor in economics is pursued, students are strongly encouraged to complement their studies with work in other fields. In recent years, for example, graduates have done complementary coursework in such fields as mathematics, foreign languages, business, environmental studies, computer sciences, international studies, and English.
The choice of a major and of a complementary field depends upon the path the student wishes to pursue. For example, students pursuing a liberal arts major, wishing to double major , or who are interested in continuing studies in professions other than economics would likely find the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) best suited to their needs. Students wishing to engage the discipline at a much broader and deeper level would find the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) a better alternative.
The core for each degree consists of five economics courses and two allied requirements. The B.A. requires three additional electives of the student's choosing. The B.S. has three possible paths. Each path requires three specified electives, two additional electives of the student's choosing and additional allied requirements.
Students wishing to pursue graduate study in economics should consider the path in Mathematical Economics. Students interested in international affairs should consider the path in International Economics. Students seeking an economics degree supplemented with additional technical skills and an introduction to the business field or who are looking towards an eventual MBA degree should consider the Business Economics path.
Majors must complete a minimum of twenty credits in economics at St. Thomas. Minors must complete a minimum of twelve credits in economics at St. Thomas.
econwiz@milkweed.econ.stthomas.edu