The program in economics focuses on the integration of core economic analysis with relevant interdisciplinary applications. The program develops analytical tools and communication skills in the context of economic theory and its linkages to a broad array of human decisions. Economics, as a social science, seeks to explain and predict the behavior of consumers, producers, managers, government officials and citizens by examining the interactions of incentives and constraints in an environment of ever-present scarcity of time, skills and resources. Microeconomics focuses on the choices of individuals and firms, as well as their role in the marketplace, while macroeconomics aggregates economic activity to the national level to analyze trends and fluctuations in overall economic activity. The economics program offers flexibility and opportunity through its emphases: general, environmental resource, international, managerial or quantitative economics. These emphases allow students to pursue specific interests and maximize connections to disciplines related to economics.
The Economics Major prepares students for careers in both the public and private sectors. The Major can also prepare students for graduate study in such fields as economics, business, resource management, public administration, law, and international affairs.