Economics Major

Major Requirements

The major in economics requires a minimum of eight courses within the department plus the department’s capstone experience and two required courses in mathematics. Required courses for the major are ECON 113 , ECON 119 , ECON 361 , ECON 371 , and ECON 381 . In addition, the major requires a minimum of three elective courses: one course at the 200 level plus two courses above that level, at least one of which must be numbered above 400. Math courses required for an economics major are MATH 135 (Applied Calculus) or MATH 237 (Multivariable Calculus) and either MATH 153 (Data Analysis and Statistics) or MATH 155 (Introduction to Statistical Modeling); neither of these may be taken on a S/D/NC (“Pass/Fail”) basis. If you are uncertain as to which calculus course is appropriate for you, please read here: http://www.macalester.edu/mathcs/WhichCalc.html. The department encourages students who intend to major in economics to take MATH 155 (Introduction to Statistical Modeling).

Topics Courses

Topics courses, which by college convention carry the number ECON 194 , ECON 294 , ECON 394 , or ECON 494 , may be taught at all levels of difficulty. Those topics courses for which only ECON 119 is prerequisite are the equivalent of 200 level courses for purposes of fulfilling the major requirements. Those for which a 200 level course is prerequisite are the equivalent of 300 level courses. Those for which ECON 361 , ECON 371 , and/or ECON 381 are prerequisite are generally classified as the equivalent of 400 level courses. Information on these classifications is included in Topics course descriptions or may be obtained from the department chairperson.

Capstone Experience

The capstone experience requirement in economics may be satisfied by any one of the following: (a) an approved course in the 400s; (b) an approved topics course; (c) an independent project that includes a major paper; or (d) an honors thesis. (This capstone experience is in addition to the eight courses within the department required for the major and is to be undertaken during the senior year.)