The major consists of 12 courses, which include mathematical prerequisites. Given that students typically take four classes each semester for a total of eight semesters, this leaves ample room for flexibility in scheduling these courses. It’s important to note that the sequence of courses can vary significantly based on factors like concurrent programs of study, plans to study abroad, thesis writing, and preparatory courses for summer internships. Therefore, course sequencing largely depends on individual student choices and circumstances beyond the major.
To assist with this planning, we have provided three sample schedules below. These schedules represent different scenarios and choices made by students. However, please remember that these are just examples and are not the only options available. Getting acquainted with these schedules will help you understand the flexibility this major offers in course scheduling.
Year | Fall | Spring |
1 | ECON 101 | MATH 141 |
2 | 200-level elective MATH 186 |
ECON 251 200-level elective |
3 | ECON 252 ECON 253 |
300-level elective |
4 | 300-level elective | 300-level elective |
Thesis (both semesters) or Capstone (either semester) |
Year | Fall | Spring |
1 | [no coursework toward major] | [no coursework toward major] |
2 | ECON 101 MATH 141 |
ECON 251 MATH 186 |
3 | ECON 252 200- or 300-level elective (with 251 prerequisite) |
ECON 253 200- or 300-level elective (with 251 or 252 prerequisite) |
4 | 300-level elective 300-level elective |
300-level elective |
Thesis (both semesters) or Capstone (either semester) |
Year | Fall | Spring |
1 | ECON 101 MATH 141 |
ECON 252 200-level elective |
2 | ECON 251 MATH 186 |
ECON 253 200-level or 300-level elective (with 251 or 252 prerequisite) |
3 | [no coursework toward major required] | [no coursework toward major required] |
4 | 300-level elective 300-level elective |
300-level elective |
Thesis (both semesters) or Capstone (either semester) |
Supplemental Instruction (SI) is a student-led, collaborative learning opportunity available for many academically demanding courses. Supplemental Instruction is designed to assist students to integrate WHAT to learn with HOW to learn. For this reason, SI is the preferred support option for courses in which it is offered. The SI course schedule can be found below and in TutorTrac.
As a means to provide structured support to second-tier gateway courses, the Mentored Study Group program began in the spring 2015 semester. Since that time it has grown to include specific courses in math, engineering, chemistry, and economics departments. The MSG model is based on principles that have proven efficacy in enhancing the learning of the complex subject matter, increasing understanding of difficult material, instilling confidence in mastery of the material, and improving exam grades. MSGs are facilitated by upper-class students who work closely with course professors to ensure Mentored Study Group leaders are well prepared to explain complex course topics. The MSG schedule by course is listed below and can be found in TutorTrac
Economics or Finance
These programs generally require a high degree of mathematical sophistication. Students thinking of continuing in such a program are advised to:
Students thinking about this option should discuss their plans with the department head and other faculty members.
Masters of Business Administration (MBA)
MBA programs look for students who have taken a wide range of courses across the curriculum rather than for students who have narrowly focused on economics and mathematics. It is not necessary to have majored in economics. MBA programs normally expect that students have worked for a couple of years in business, government, or similar organization before they begin the MBA program. Consequently, the appropriate preparatory coursework for MBA programs is a wide range of liberal arts courses.