1. The student will develop an understanding of the unique perspective of economics.
- Demonstrate understanding of major fields in the discipline
- Identify/formulate economic problems/issues
- Be familiar with professional and secular literature and able to differentiate between the two.
2. The student will develop a basic proficiency in using the theories and tools of economics.
- Understand and apply core theoretical frameworks
- Make appropriate use of professional and secular literature and able to differentiate between the two
- Propose solutions to basic problems
- Evaluate the work of others
3. The student will develop appropriate analytical and quantitative skills.
- Collect, present, analyze and interpret data
- Make appropriate inferences from data
4. The student will develop effective communication skills appropriate to the discipline.
- Write and communicate technical material clearly and effectively according the standards of the profession; (use appropriate style in writing, use appropriate technology)
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Make formal and informal oral presentations effectively
5. The student will develop proficiency in using current technology appropriate to the discipline including statistical packages, databases and library and internet skills for research.
Learning Outcomes for the B.A. in Economics
1. Economics majors will understand the institutions and operation of the U.S. economy.
2. Economics majors will be able to use graphical models, logical argument, mathematics, and written communication to explain basic market outcomes and to analyze real-world policy alternatives.
3. Economics majors will be able to apply advanced microeconomic and macroeconomic theories to explain the behavior of individuals, businesses, and industries in market-based systems and the challenges of developing economies.
4. Economics majors will be able to explain the role of government in the economy, including taxing, spending, regulating and producing.
5. Students will be familiar with competing economic paradigms and the historical development of the discipline.
6. Economics majors will be offered courses that use matrix algebra, differential calculus, maximization, and minimization techniques, and integral calculus to examine economic issues.
These courses are mandatory for students preparing for graduate school in economics.
Students who are qualified will be encouraged to complete a senior paper or honors thesis, conducting a significant research project that will contain a hypothesis, literature review, collection of evidence, and statistical testing and analysis.