May 01, 2024  
College Catalog 2013-2014 
    
College Catalog 2013-2014 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Courses


 

Computer Science

  
  • COMP 394 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • COMP 440 - Collective Intelligence


    This course will explore how computers can analyze people’s collective behavior to help them. Students will read and discuss recent academic research papers about collective behavior on sites such as Wikipedia, Facebook, and Twitter. Students will use coputational simulation and data-mining techniques to analyze online datasets. Prerequisite(s): COMP 124  and COMP 221 , or permission of instructor. Offered alternate fall semesters. (4 Credits)

  
  • COMP 445 - Parallel and Distributed Processing


    Many current computational challenges, such as Internet search, protein folding, and data mining require the use of multiple processes running in parallel, whether on a single multiprocessor machine (parallel processing) or on multiple machines connected together on a network (distributed processing). The type of processing required to solve such problems in adequate amounts of time involves dividing the program and/or problem space into parts that can run simultaneously on many processors. In this course we will explore the various computer architectures used for this purpose and the issues involved with programming parallel solutions in such environments. Students will examine several types of problems that can benefit from parallel or distributed solutions and develop their own solutions for them. Prerequisite(s): COMP 240  and COMP 221 , or permission of instructor. Alternate fall semesters. (4 Credits)

  
  • COMP 484 - Introduction to Artificial Intelligence

    Cross-Listed as NEUR 484 
    An introduction to the basic principles and techniques of artificial intelligence. Topics will include specific AI techniques, a range of application areas, and connections between AI and other areas of study (i.e., philosophy, psychology). Techniques may include heuristic search, automated reasoning, machine learning, deliberative planning and behavior-based agent control. Application areas include robotics, games, knowledge representation, logic, perception, and natural language processing. Prerequisite(s): COMP 221 , or permission of instructor. Alternate fall semesters. (4 Credits)

  
  • COMP 490 - Senior Capstone Seminar


    Working with their capstone supervisor, seminar coordinators, and other faculty, students will discuss their capstone project, make presentations of their progress, critique the work of other students, and participate in the activities of the seminar. These activities will include instruction and discussion of strategies for research, writing, and presentation. The scheduled times will include both group meetings with other seminar participants as well as individually arranged meetings with the students capstone supervisor. S/NC grading only. Every spring semester. (2 Credits)

  
  • COMP 494 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • COMP 601 - Tutorial


    Closely supervised individual (or very small group) study with a faculty member in which a student may explore, by way of readings, short writings, etc., an area of computer science not available through the regular offerings. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Every semester. (1 Credits)

  
  • COMP 602 - Tutorial


    Closely supervised individual (or very small group) study with a faculty member in which a student may explore, by way of readings, short writings, etc., an area of computer science not available through the regular offerings. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Every semester. (2 Credits)

  
  • COMP 603 - Tutorial


    Closely supervised individual (or very small group) study with a faculty member in which a student may explore, by way of readings, short writings, etc., an area of computer science not available through the regular offerings. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Every semester. (3 Credits)

  
  • COMP 604 - Tutorial


    Closely supervised individual (or very small group) study with a faculty member in which a student may explore, by way of readings, short writings, etc., an area of computer science not available through the regular offerings. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • COMP 611 - Independent Project


    Individual project including library research, conferences with instructor, oral and written reports on independent work in computer science. Subject matter may complement but not duplicate material covered in regular courses. Prerequisite(s): Arrangements must be made with a department member prior to registration and permission of instructor. Every semester. (1 Credits)

  
  • COMP 612 - Independent Project


    Individual project including library research, conferences with instructor, oral and written reports on independent work in computer science. Subject matter may complement but not duplicate material covered in regular courses. Prerequisite(s): Arrangements must be made with a department member prior to registration and permission of instructor. Every semester. (2 Credits)

  
  • COMP 613 - Independent Project


    Individual project including library research, conferences with instructor, oral and written reports on independent work in computer science. Subject matter may complement but not duplicate material covered in regular courses. Prerequisite(s): Arrangements must be made with a department member prior to registration and permission of instructor. Every semester. (3 Credits)

  
  • COMP 614 - Independent Project


    Individual project including library research, conferences with instructor, oral and written reports on independent work in computer science. Subject matter may complement but not duplicate material covered in regular courses. Prerequisite(s): Arrangements must be made with a department member prior to registration and permission of instructor. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • COMP 621 - Internship


    Internships are offered only as S/D/NC grading option. Prerequisite(s): Available to junior and senior students with declared majors in computer science. Arrangements must be made prior to registration. Permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. Every semester. (1 Credits)

  
  • COMP 622 - Internship


    Internships are offered only as S/D/NC grading option. Prerequisite(s): Available to junior and senior students with declared majors in computer science. Arrangements must be made prior to registration. Permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. Every semester. (2 Credits)

  
  • COMP 623 - Internship


    Internships are offered only as S/D/NC grading option. Prerequisite(s): Available to junior and senior students with declared majors in computer science. Arrangements must be made prior to registration. Permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. Every semester. (3 Credits)

  
  • COMP 624 - Internship


    Internships are offered only as S/D/NC grading option. Prerequisite(s): Available to junior and senior students with declared majors in computer science. Arrangements must be made prior to registration. Permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • COMP 631 - Preceptorship


    Prerequisite(s): Available to junior and senior students with declared majors in computer science. Arrangements must be made prior to registration. Permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. Every semester. (1 Credits)

  
  • COMP 632 - Preceptorship


    Prerequisite(s): Available to junior and senior students with declared majors in computer science. Arrangements must be made prior to registration. Permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. Every semester. (2 Credits)

  
  • COMP 633 - Preceptorship


    Prerequisite(s): Available to junior and senior students with declared majors in computer science. Arrangements must be made prior to registration. Permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. Every semester. (3 Credits)

  
  • COMP 634 - Preceptorship


    Prerequisite(s): Available to junior and senior students with declared majors in computer science. Arrangements must be made prior to registration. Permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • COMP 641 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the senior honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Every semester. (1 Credits)

  
  • COMP 642 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the senior honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Every semester. (2 Credits)

  
  • COMP 643 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the senior honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Every semester. (3 Credits)

  
  • COMP 644 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the senior honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Every semester. (4 Credits)


Economics

  
  • ECON 110 - Investments


    The primary goal of this course is to enable students to become informed and intelligent investors in the area of stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. We will also attempt to answer the question: Is it possible to predict changes in stock prices or are they determined only by random events? Other topics covered include ethical investing, international investing, and green investing. Emphasis will be on group learning, oral presentations, and the case study approach. This course is intended for non-economics majors and does not count for credit toward an economics major. Every year. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 113 - Financial Accounting


    Accounting is the language of business. One of the objectives of this course is to learn that “language.” The emphasis will be on understanding financial statements both for profit and non-profit organizations. International accounting, ethics and investment decisions are also covered. This course is designed for students who desire an understanding of the elements of accounting as a component of a liberal arts education as well as for those who would like to study further in accounting or business. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisite. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 115 - Introduction to American Economy


    This course provides a non-technical introduction to the basic concepts in economics, with a focus on the United States. Using a small number of fundamental economic concepts, this course provides a foundation for informed decision making regarding current economic debates. The course is intended for non-majors and does not count for the economics major. It is not open to students who have already taken  ECON 119 - Principles of Economics . Once per year. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 119 - Principles of Economics


    A one-semester introduction to the basic tools of micro- and macroeconomic analysis. Microeconomics deals with consumers, firms, markets and income distribution. Macroeconomics deals with national income, employment, inflation and money. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisite. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 180 - Cambodia: Culture, History, and Development

    Cross-Listed as  
    This January-term study-abroad course examines Cambodia’s history, culture, and contemporary economic development. As one of the poorest countries in Asia, experiencing extremely rapid development in conjunction with a significant political history involving the United States, Cambodia provides a privileged example of important political, religious, and economic history. (2 Credits)

  
  • ECON 194 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 201 - Internship Seminar


    The internship seminar is recommended as a companion course for students taking an internship through the Economics department. The course is designed to help assure that the theories, principles, and concepts developed in academic work are effectively integrated with the internship experience. The course will use a combination of in-class readings and discussions to allow students to reflect on their own career aspirations as a result of the internship experience as well as to learn from the experiences of other students in the seminar. The goals of the course include supporting students during the internship, analyzing the challenges posed by an internship, and providing success strategies, and developing take-aways from the internship program that help students plan remaining coursework and career preparation. Prerequisite(s): ECON 113  or ECON 119  Every spring. (2 Credits)

  
  • ECON 210 - Business Communications


    This course is intended to help students improve their own critical communication skills and explore how those skills can be best applied in business situations. Students will polish writing skills, with sessions that focus on resumes, cover letters, and everyday business communications like email. Students will learn best practices of effective presentations and will deliver several powerpoint presentations in class. The course will use the case method to review real corporate communication issues, such as crisis management, interpersonal communications challenges, negotiation simulations and the like. Prerequisite(s): ECON 113  or ECON 119  (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 221 - Introduction to International Economics


    This course explores the theoretical foundations and empirical realities of international trade flows, commercial policies (tariffs, quotas, etc.) and international finance. The course emphasizes the welfare implications of international trade and commercial policies and links these to discussion of disputes over international trade agreements. The international finance portion of the course covers the foreign exchange market, balance of payments analysis and an introduction to open economy macroeconomics. Recommended for students majoring in international studies. Prerequisite(s): ECON 119  Every year. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 225 - Comparative Economic Systems

    Cross-Listed as  
    This course examines the workings of economic systems from the perspective of the incentives facing the firm and consumer. The course provides an introduction to the economics of information and organization which is used to evaluate resource allocation under the specific institutional environment of different economic systems. Our understanding of the incentive system is then used to evaluate the overall economic system. The focus of the course is primarily on the U.S. economy, Japan and the former Soviet Union/Russia. As time permits the course may examine China, Germany and Central Europe. Prerequisite(s): ECON 119  (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 227 - Adam Smith and Karl Marx


    The objective of this course is to study the lives and the original writings of two of the most important scholars in the history of economic thought. Adam Smith, the patron saint of laissez-faire capitalism, was the founding father of modern economics, as well as the intellectual predecessor of Marx. Marx’s historical and political vision embraced an equally large panorama. Prerequisite(s): ECON 119  Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 231 - Environmental Economics and Policy

    Cross-Listed as ENVI 231 
    This course analyzes the economics of public policy toward the environment. It examines the problem of market failure in the presence of externalities and public goods, and considers policy responses to these market failures, including command-and-control regulations, tax and subsidy incentives, and marketable pollution permits. These policies are examined in the context of, for example, urban air pollution, ozone depletion and global warming, water pollution, municipal and hazardous waste, threats to biodiversity, and economic development. Particular attention is paid to methods of quantifying the benefits and costs of environmental protection. Prerequisite(s): ECON 119  (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 242 - Economics of Gender

    Cross-Listed as WGSS 242 
    This course uses economic theory to explore how gender differences lead to different economic outcomes for men and women, both within families and in the marketplace. Topics include applications of economic theory to 1) aspects of family life including marriage, cohabitation, fertility, and divorce, and 2) the interactions of men and women in firms and in markets. The course will combine theory, empirical work, and analysis of economic policies that affect men and women differently. Prerequisite(s): ECON 119  (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 252 - Economics of Not-For-Profit


    This course focuses on the economics of not-for-profit institutions. The course will deal with both underlying theoretical concepts and their applicability to Macalester College. Indeed, the college will provide the framework for the course. Using the tools of economic analysis acquired in the Principles course, we will examine the mission/purpose/aims of the college and how they relate to governance (the interplay between the Board of Trustees, the President and his/her staff, the various faculty/staff committees, students, and other constituencies); planning and goal setting; resource allocation (both operating and capital budgets); the interplay between human capital, financial capital, and physical capital; agency matters and incentives; and the issues that must be confronted in deciding whether to spend more from the endowment now vs later. We will also study how not-for-profits tend to self-evaluate their progress and how external evaluating methodologies (e.g. U.S.News & World Report rankings) might influence all of the above. Prerequisite(s): ECON 119 (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 256 - Intro to Investment Banking


    This course will provide a one semester overview of investment banks. The role of equity capital markets, debt capital markets, research, sales and trading, and investment banking will be covered. Basic corporate finance techniques will be introduced. Current financial issues in the business world will be reviewed. Classroom work, case studies, and outside speakers will be utilized. The key objectives of this course are for students to obtain a solid understanding of the various disciplines within the investment banking field and to prepare themselves for interviews and internships. The course is well suited for students who are contemplating a career in investment banking, banking, or corporate finance. Prerequisite(s): ECON 113  and ECON 119 . (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 269 - Economics of International Migration

    Cross-Listed as LATI 269  and INTL 269 
    This course will examine the global movement of people through an economic lens. The course will study the impact that emigration has on the economy of the home country, such as brain drain and population change, the historic role that migration has played in economic development, and finally the effect that immigration has on immigrant-receiving countries. The various economic issues in the current immigration debate in the United States will be analyzed including the economic assimilation of immigrants, and the impact of immigration on native born workers. Every other spring. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 292 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (2 Credits)

  
  • ECON 294 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 323 - Economic Restructuring in Latin America

    Cross-Listed as INTL 323  and LATI 323 
    This course uses economic principles to examine the transition from Import Substitution Industrialization to trade liberalization in Latin America. The goal of the course is to understand the economic antecedents to free trade as well as the resulting impact on workers and resource allocation. The course also addresses peripheral aspects of economic restructuring, such as the drug trade, migration, and the maquiladora industry. Requires an Economics 200 level course from the Group A electives, Economics 221 preferred. Prerequisite(s): Grade of C– or higher in any 200-level Economics course, ECON 221  preferred Offered every year. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 325 - China, Russia and Central Europe in Transition

    Cross-Listed as INTL 325 


    This course surveys the theoretic and empirical literature on Soviet-style central planning and the transition to a market economy. The economic history of central planning is examined with emphasis on the experience of the Soviet Union and its variants in Eastern Europe and China. The tool of analysis is the branch of economics known as the economics of organization and information, which will be used to analyze the operation, strengths, and limitations of central planning. The legacy of central planning forms the backdrop for an examination of the transition to a market economy. Prerequisite(s):   and C- or higher in a 200-level Economics course from Group A electives; ECON 221  or ECON 225  are recommended

      Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 333 - Economics of Global Food Problems

    Cross-Listed as ENVI 333  and INTL 333 
    This course will examine food distribution, production, policy, and hunger issues from an economics perspective. It explores and compares food and agriculture issues in both industrialized and developing countries. Basic economic tools will be applied to provide an analytical understanding of these issues. Topics such as hunger and nutrition, US farm policy, food distribution, food security, food aid, biotechnology and the Green Revolution, the connection between food production and health outcomes, as well as other related themes will be explored in depth throughout the semester. Prerequisite(s): ECON 119  and a C- or higher in one 200-level Economics course from Group A electives;   or   recommended. Offered every other spring semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 342 - Economics of Poverty in US


    This course focuses on the economic aspects of poverty and inequality in the United States. The course utilizes economic theory and empirical research to analyze the determinants of, and potential strategies to overcome poverty and inequality. Topics include measurement and trends of poverty and inequality, labor markets, education, discrimination, residential segregation, and immigration. The course also investigates the role of public policy in fighting poverty and inequality. There is a required service learning component in this course. Prerequisite(s): ECON 119  and a C- or higher in one 200-level Economics course from Group A electives Offered every year. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 353 - Managerial Accounting


    Planning is the key to business success. How do firms plan for the future? Setting objectives and budgets. Evaluating and rewarding employee performance. Controlling inventory, cash budgeting, and capital budgeting. Extensive use of case studies and group work. Prerequisite(s): ECON 113  or permission of instructor. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 356 - Capital Markets


    The structure, operation, regulation and economic role of financial markets and institutions; fundamental security analysis and present-value techniques; forecasts of earnings and analysis of yields on stocks and bonds; the portfolio theory and characteristic lines, betas and mutual-fund ratings; futures and options markets. Prerequisite(s): ECON 113  and ECON 119  (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 358 - Introduction to Securities Analysis


    This course will primarily focus on equity securities analysis (stocks) from the perspective of institutional (Wall Stree) investors. Topics will include industry analysis and forecasting, financial statement analysis, fundamental company analysis and valuation methods. Students will form industry groups and will each research a company in that industry. Students will build complete historical and projected financial statement models in Excel. The end product of the course will be a company report written by each student. Prerequisite(s): ECON 113  and C- or higher in ECON 256 , or permission of instructor. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 361 - Intermediate Microeconomic Analysis


    Methodology of economic science; theory of consumer behavior; theory of the firm; market structure and price determination; factor markets and income distribution; general equilibrium analysis; market failure. Prerequisite(s): ECON 119 , MATH 135  or MATH 237 , and a C- or higher in one 200-level Economics course from Group A electives. Not open to first-year students except by permission of the instructor. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 371 - Intermediate Macroeconomic Analysis


    This course develops in detail theories of the determination of national income, employment and the price level. The foundations and mechanics of neo-classical and Keynesian models of the aggregate economy are studied and modern syntheses of these approaches are explored. Considerable attention will be paid to current behavior of the national economy. Prerequisite(s): ECON 119 , ECON 361  and MATH 135  or MATH 237 , or permission of instructor. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 381 - Introduction to Econometrics


    This course investigates the methods economists use to test theories and conduct economic forecasts. This course will provide the student with the ability to design, conduct, and evaluate empirical work in economics and other social sciences. The primary focus of the course is on the final project that consists of a research paper that will integrate library research, economic theory, and econometric analysis. The course will take a “hands on” approach as much as possible with weekly use of the microcomputer in class. Prerequisite(s): ECON 119 , a C- or higher in one 200-level course from Group A electives, ECON 361 (or permission of instructor), MATH 135  or MATH 237 , and MATH 155 . Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 394 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 420 - Quantitative Microeconomic Analysis


    This course provides a formal, hands-on exposition of modern macroeconomic theory using dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) models. Prerequisite(s): ECON 371  and MATH 237 , or permission of instructor. Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 422 - International Macroeconomics and Finance


    This is a course in open economy macroeconomics and international finance. Special emphasis is placed on the causes and consequences of the international financial system’s evolution. The four major international monetary regimes of the twentieth century, the classical gold standard, the interwar gold-exchange standard, the Bretton Woods System, and the floating-rate dollar standard, are explored in chronological order as well as attempts at monetary union in Europe. Topics examined include: 1) exchange rate determination, 2) balance of payments, 3) macroeconomic adjustment, and 4) international monetary institutions. Case studies are used extensively. Prerequisite(s): ECON 361  and ECON 371  (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 424 - Effects of International Competition


    This course provides an in-depth look at current issues in international trade. The course begins with a more rigorous examination of both classical and “new” trade theories. Then, we explore empirical tests of trade theories, models of outsourcing and production fragmentation, and the literature relating trade and the environment. We also examine the debates over the effect of trade on wages, multilateral versus bilateral trade negotiations, and the relationship between trade and growth. Prerequisite(s): ECON 361 , ECON 371 , and ECON 381  Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 426 - International Economic Development


    This course will apply the tools of economic analysis to gain an understanding of economic development problems and their solutions. Patterns of economic development in an historical and dynamic context will be examined. The central role of agriculture and the problem of technological change in agriculture will also be examined. Other topics will include neo-classical growth models, domestic and international economic policies, international trade, foreign aid, external debt, technology transfer, rural-urban migration and income distribution. Prerequisite(s): ECON 361 , ECON 371 , and ECON 381  Every year. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 431 - Public Finance


    This course examines government taxation and expenditures. It relies on theoretical and empirical research to explore how government affects the allocation of resources and the distribution of income. The first portion of the course considers taxation in the presence of externalities and public goods and analyzes the effect of social security, unemployment insurance, and social welfare programs on labor supply, savings, and government revenue. The second portion focuses on models to estimate the distributional burdens of taxation, theories of optimal commodity and income taxation, and incentives for investment by firms. Prerequisite(s): ECON 361 , ECON 371 , and ECON 381  Every year. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 442 - Labor Economics


    This course uses theoretical and empirical research to examine the economics of work from both the point of view of the firm and the worker. Economic tools will be used to analyze some of the important issues relevant to labor economics, such as labor force participation, the division of labor within the household, occupational choice, investments in education, minimum wage legislation, wage elasticities, employment-hours tradeoff, labor market discrimination, unions, and job search. Prerequisite(s):   ECON 361 , ECON 371 , and ECON 381 . Offered every year. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 444 - Honors Seminar


    An honors seminar to enhance the senior capstone requirement. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor required. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 457 - Finance


    This course concentrates on developing and applying economic principles to the decision making process of the firm. Typically the course is taught from the viewpoint of the financial manager of a firm (profit or non-profit). Traditional corporate finance topics will be covered, including: cash flow management, sources of capital, capital budgeting, cost of capital, and financial structure. Recent theoretical developments in the capital asset pricing model and portfolio theory also will be examined. Actual case studies of financial decision making often are included in the course. Prerequisite(s): ECON 113 , ECON 361  and ECON 381 . (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 461 - Selected Topics in Microeconomic


    This course will extend the subject matter of Intermediate Microeconomics, considering both theory and selected applications in four broad areas: (1) Extensions of the theory of choice to considerations of risk and uncertainty, the expected utility hypothesis, and the economics of information; (2) Extensions of the competitive market model to examine the supply of exhaustible resources, airline regulation and deregulation, and rent controls; (3) Extensions of simple, undifferentiated oligopoly theory to examine product differentiation, game theory, and contestable markets; and (4) Extensions of the theory of factor markets to study discrimination in the labor market, the negative income tax, and the incidence of the social security payroll tax. Prerequisite(s): ECON 361 , ECON 371  and ECON 381 , and Senior standing or permission of instructor. Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 481 - Advanced Econometrics


    This course will introduce advanced topics in applied econometrics. Among other topics, it will examine limited dependent variable models, vector autoregression and advanced time series techniques, simultaneous equations models and the econometrics of panel data estimation. Although the emphasis will be on applied work, the course will also examine the underlying mathematical structure of these estimation methods. Prerequisite(s): ECON 361 , ECON 371 , ECON 381  and MATH 135  or MATH 137  and MATH 236 , or permission of instructor. Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 485 - Empirical Finance


    This class concentrates on applying econometric techniques and computer programming to empirically test major financial theories. The econometric techniques used in the class include but is not restricted to OLS, GLS, GMM, Maximum Likelihood method, Nonparametric method, panel data models (random effect model, fixed effect model, pooled regression, etc.), time series models (VAR, ARMA, ARMAX, GARCH, etc.). Main programming language used in the class is Matlab, while R and STATA may also be used occasionally. Major finance topics tested in the class include market efficiency, portfolio theory, stock selection models, market microstructure, anomalies in the financial markets, calendar effects, etc. Prerequisite(s): ECON 356  and ECON 381 , MATH 135  (or MATH 137 ) and MATH 236 , and COMP 121  Offered every other year. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 490 - Behavioral Economics


    This course surveys recent developments in behavioral economics and considers applications in labor economics, macroeconomics, finance, public finance, consumer choice, and other areas. Our goal is to draw on recent work in cognitive and evolutionary psychology to better understand human behavior and incorporate these insights into neoclassical reasoning and modeling. This course counts towards the capstone. Prerequisite(s): ECON 361  and ECON 371  Offered every year. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 494 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 611 - Independent Project


    Further study in fields of special interest. Readings, conferences, field work, reports. Prerequisite(s):  ,   and permission of instructor. Every semester. (1 Credits)

  
  • ECON 612 - Independent Project


    Further study in fields of special interest. Readings, conferences, field work, reports. Prerequisite(s):  ,   and permission of instructor. Every semester. (2 Credits)

  
  • ECON 613 - Independent Project


    Further study in fields of special interest. Readings, conferences, field work, reports. Prerequisite(s):  ,   and permission of instructor. Every semester. (3 Credits)

  
  • ECON 614 - Independent Project


    Further study in fields of special interest. Readings, conferences, field work, reports. Prerequisite(s):  ,   and permission of instructor. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 621 - Internship


    Work that involves the student in practical off-campus experiences with business, government, and non-profit organizations. S/NC grading only. While the department encourages students to undertake meaningful off-campus experiences, internship credits do not count among the eight minimum courses for the major. (Internships are considered like a ninth or tenth course.) Prerequisite(s): Two courses in economics and permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. (1 Credits)

  
  • ECON 622 - Internship


    Work that involves the student in practical off-campus experiences with business, government, and non-profit organizations. S/NC grading only. While the department encourages students to undertake meaningful off-campus experiences, internship credits do not count among the eight minimum courses for the major. (Internships are considered like a ninth or tenth course.) Prerequisite(s): Two courses in economics and permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. (2 Credits)

  
  • ECON 623 - Internship


    Work that involves the student in practical off-campus experiences with business, government, and non-profit organizations. S/NC grading only. While the department encourages students to undertake meaningful off-campus experiences, internship credits do not count among the eight minimum courses for the major. (Internships are considered like a ninth or tenth course.) Prerequisite(s): Two courses in economics and permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. (3 Credits)

  
  • ECON 624 - Internship


    Work that involves the student in practical off-campus experiences with business, government, and non-profit organizations. S/NC grading only. While the department encourages students to undertake meaningful off-campus experiences, internship credits do not count among the eight minimum courses for the major. (Internships are considered like a ninth or tenth course.) Prerequisite(s): Two courses in economics and permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 631 - Preceptorship


    Work in assisting faculty in the planning and teaching of a course and/or tutoring individual students. S/NC grading only. Prerequisite(s):  ,   and permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. Every semester. (1 Credits)

  
  • ECON 632 - Preceptorship


    Work in assisting faculty in the planning and teaching of a course and/or tutoring individual students. S/NC grading only. Prerequisite(s):  ,   and permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. Every semester. (2 Credits)

  
  • ECON 633 - Preceptorship


    Work in assisting faculty in the planning and teaching of a course and/or tutoring individual students. S/NC grading only. Prerequisite(s):  ,   and permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. Every semester. (3 Credits)

  
  • ECON 634 - Preceptorship


    Work in assisting faculty in the planning and teaching of a course and/or tutoring individual students. S/NC grading only. Prerequisite(s):  ,   and permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • ECON 641 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the senior honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Offered every semester. (1 Credits)

  
  • ECON 642 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the senior honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Offered every semester. (2 Credits)

  
  • ECON 643 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the senior honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Offered every semester. (3 Credits)

  
  • ECON 644 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the senior honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Offered every semester. (4 Credits)


Educational Studies

  
  • EDUC 194 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • EDUC 200 - Experiences in Education


    This course provides opportunities to explore, reflect upon and contribute to life in contemporary urban classrooms. Weekly internships will be arranged allowing students to work closely with teachers, educational support staff and diverse young people of varied ages (kindergarten, elementary, or secondary levels). A weekly seminar session, readings, reflective writing, and individual and small group projects complement the experiential aspects of the course. This course is offered on S/NC grading option only (2 Credits)

  
  • EDUC 220 - Educational Psychology

    Cross-Listed as PSYC 220 
    An introduction to theory and research in educational psychology. Topics include learning theory, learner characteristics, intelligence, creativity, motivation, measurement and evaluation, and models of teaching appropriate for diverse learners from early childhood through young adulthood. Students are required to complete observations in classroom settings. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • EDUC 225 - Education, Community and Cultural Survival in New Orleans


    This two-credit, intensive, week-long January term course focuses on the continued efforts of new Orleans to restructure and redefine itself post-Katrina amidst various educational, ecological, economic and political challenges. The cousre provides students with the essential critical, historical and cultural framework through which to interpret various site visits, civic engagement and conversations with local leaders, activists and scholars in New Orleans. The course also invites students into collaborative engagement with schools, neighborhoods and communities, encouraging them to become active participants in the challenging conversations that engage new Orleans and so many cities in North America and across the globe. S/D/NC grading only. Participation restricted to Bonner scholars. (2 Credits)

  
  • EDUC 230 - Community Youth Development in Multicultural America


    Brofenbrenner’s bioecological model of human development suggests the critical importance of social contexts besides the classroom in supporting the healthy development of children and youth from diverse social and economic backgrounds. This course examines the multiple systems affecting the developmental process through course readings, meetings, and assignments, grounded in a field placement of the student’s choosing. Appropriate field placements will engage students in a variety of youth development capacities, including centers for research and program development, social service organizations, and agencies aimed at improving youth-oriented social policy. This course provides an opportunity to examine education more broadly defined, and to explore fields of youth development such as social work, counseling, athletics, youth leadership, and youth-centered research. Every spring. (4 Credits)

  
  • EDUC 240 - Race, Culture, and Ethnicity in Education

    Cross-Listed as  AMST 240 
    This survey course will explore history, policy, and pedagogy as they relate to race, ethnicity, and culture as education. K-12 public education will be the primary focus with topics including desegregation, standardized testing, multi-cultural and ethnocentric pedagogy, the teacher’s role and experience, and significant historical events in education. The course will culminate by analyzing current trends and future expectations in education. Fall semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • EDUC 275 - Outdoor Environmental Education

    Cross-Listed as ENVI 275 
    This course provides an introduction to outdoor environmental education at the elementary school level. Macalester students will partner with teachers and students from local schools, families with school-age children, and youth organizations to explore interdisciplinary approaches to outdoor environmental education. The course will utilize Macalester’s field station, the Katharine Ordway Natural History Study Area, as an outdoor classroom and will adapt curriculum from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and other sources to help elementary school teachers and students fulfill Minnesota K-12 Academic Standards and assist youth organizations in achieving their environmental education goals. A weekly 90-minute seminar session incorporating readings, reflective writing, and individual and small group projects will complement the experiential aspects of the course. Students will participate in a weekend retreat early in the semester and three Wednesday afternoon (12-3pm) sessions at Ordway. S/NC grading only. (2 Credits)

  
  • EDUC 280 - Re-envisioning Education and Democracy

    Cross-Listed as AMST 280 , POLI 211 
    This course explores the design, implementation, and evaluation of public education policy as a primary means for engaging more active, inclusive and effective approaches to social inquiry and civic participation. Drawing from classic and contemporary theories of education and democracy, complemented by recent developments and controversies in public policy studies, students work to design innovative, principled, educationally sound and politically feasible responses to significant civic concerns. Fall semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • EDUC 292 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (2 Credits)

  
  • EDUC 294 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • EDUC 330 - Philosophy of Education


    What is the nature and purpose of education? In what ways should educational institutions support, challenge, or transform predominant social values? What is ethical educational policy and practice? Such questions are considered in light of a variety of philosophic perspectives. Students will define a personal philosophy of education and assess its implications for current educational theory and practice, in addition to their own educational development. Spring semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • EDUC 360 - Education and Emerging Technologies


    This course explores ways in which instructional technologies not only support, but also shape processes of thinking, learning, teaching, experiencing and interpreting life in a digital age. Theoretical frameworks drawn from developmental psychology, cognitive science, media studies, curriculum and instructional design, and varied philosophical perspectives on education are used to assess the instructional potential of major existent (e.g. presentation, conceptual mapping, multi-media authoring, electronic portfolio, and course management applications) and emerging technologies (e.g. Wiki’s, research and knowledge construction, social networking applications). Multi-dimensional, broadly inclusive, collaborative and constructivist approaches to teaching and learning are emphasized. Spring semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • EDUC 370 - Education and the Challenge of Globalization

    Cross-Listed as ENVI 370 
    The complex phenomenon of globalization affects the quality of learning and life worldwide. In the United States and abroad; across dimensions of philosophy, policy, and practice; educators, government officials, policy makers, public intellectuals, and citizens struggle with the implications of globalization for public education and civic life. The purpose of this course is to join in that struggle. We will explore interdisciplinary scholarship and policy design that integrates civic, environmental, moral, and multicultural education for the purpose of mitigating the negative consequences of cultural economic globalization. Spring semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • EDUC 390 - Teaching and Learning in Urban Schools


     This course builds on prior learning in Educational Studies to deepen understanding of both the challenge and potential of teaching in urban schools. Focal topics include exploration of “best practices” for teaching children and youth in poverty, special needs students, and English Language Learners, including the impact of cultural, economic, and family structures on their school experience. We will consider the evaluation, placement, appropriate accommodations, and methods of instruction and assessment for diverse urban students possessing a broad range of academic interests and aptitudes and varied forms of exceptionality. The course is grounded in a field experience (30 hour minimum) engaging students in learning from and contributing to a local urban classroom at the grade level/subject matter area of their choice. The course culminates in the design of a curricular unit that reflects instruction aimed at higher order cognition and holistic child development. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Fall semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • EDUC 392 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (2 Credits)

  
  • EDUC 394 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

 

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