An Overview of the Major

THE GOALS

Studying economics will enhance your ability to make good choices - increasing your satisfaction as student, as consumer, as worker, and in the other roles you will play in life. A well-informed citizen needs economics to grapple with how best to satisfy the wants and desires of all people given our limited resources.

Bryn Mawr's economics curriculum is designed to provide an understanding of economic processes and institutions and of the interactions among the economic, political, and social structures; it provides an understanding of economic aspects of everyday life and equips the student to make informed judgments about social policy.

Many graduates pursue higher degrees in economics, public policy, medicine or other academic fields. Others enter business and finance, government, or law - often supplementing their training with an MBA or law degree.

You may also wish to consult the Requirements.

THE PROCESS

Economics 105 introduces the theories and operating characteristics of modern economies that an educated person should understand.

Additional 100-and 200-level courses apply the theories and tools learned in Econ 105 to current issues in economic policy and analysis. The 200-level courses also survey a range of fields within the discipline that complement majors in other disciplines or offer economics majors areas for specialization.

Two core theory courses (Econ B200 and B202) examine in depth the strengths and weaknesses of the price system in allocating economic resources and the aggregate processes that determine employment, inflation, and growth. When combined with the tools of quantitative empirical analysis (Econ 203 and 304) these courses supply a methodological and theoretical foundation for those planning to use economics in their professional careers.

Advanced 300-level seminars provide a critical appreciation for the process of economic research through careful evaluation of professional journal articles and the writing of the senior research paper.

Check out the mix of courses Bryn Mawr and Haverford expect to offer over the next few years.

GRADUATE STUDY IN ECONOMICS

Students intending to pursue PhD work in economics or graduate degrees in public policy should plan to add Economics 304, Introduction to Econometrics, to the list of courses they take to fulfill major requirements.  Students intending to pursue a PhD in economics should also strongly consider a minor or double major in mathematics. Math courses that are particularly appropriate for PhD study in economics include Math 101 and 102, Calculus with Analytical Geometry; Math 201, Multivariable Calculus, Math 203, Linear Algebra; Math 205, Theory of Probability and Applications; Math 210, Differential Equations with Applications; and Math 301 and 302, Introduction to Real Analysis. Students are strongly urged to consult with members in the department of mathematics as early as possible, and ideally, no later than the end of the sophomore year.

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