Economics

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Program Objectives

The goal of the Economics degree program is to provide high-quality, applied, and interdisciplinary educational experiences focused on historical, contemporary, and international economic concepts and issues. The program equips students with analytical and decision-making skills relevant to careers in business administration, education, resource management, public service, and economic development.

In addition to preparing students for careers as economists, policy analysts, and resource managers in business or government agencies, the program offers a strong foundation for graduate studies in Economics, Business, Public Policy, Law or related fields.

Learning Outcomes

1. Economic Analysis & Decision-Making

Students will demonstrate the ability to analyze economic data and apply economic theories to inform decision-making in business, policy, and resource management.

2. Integrated Learning

Students will apply economic theory, data analysis, and policy evaluation to real-world challenges, demonstrating mastery of:

• Market system operations, including supply and demand, price mechanisms, and market structures.
• The role of households, firms, and government in local, national, and global economic systems.
• Macroeconomic and microeconomic dynamics, including trade, fiscal policy, and resource allocation.

3. Critical Thinking & Civic Engagement

Students will develop a pluralistic understanding of economic theory, integrating Institutionalist, Keynesian, and neoclassical perspectives to analyze key issues such as:

• Inflation, unemployment, and economic growth.
• Government finance, international trade, and monetary policy.
• The economic impacts of natural resources, rural economies, and sustainability policies.

4. Communication & Research

Students will be able to analyze and present economic research findings effectively:

• Conduct quantitative and qualitative research using economic models, statistical tools, and case studies.
• Communicate findings clearly in writing and oral presentations, translating economic data for policymakers, businesses, and communities.

5. Ethical & Global Perspectives

Students will evaluate ethical considerations in economic decision-making and assess how economic policies impact different populations and global economies.

6. Technological & Quantitative Skills

Students will develop proficiency in economic modeling, statistical software, and data visualization tools, applying them to contemporary economic analysis and forecasting.

Means of Assessment

Student learning will be assessed through a combination of coursework, applied research, and experiential learning. Performance indicators include:

• Exams, quizzes, and essays that measure understanding of economic principles.
• Policy analyses that assess critical thinking and problem-solving.
• Presentations and reports demonstrating research communication skills.
• A capstone research project, where students apply economic methodologies to a real-world issue, particularly in rural or resource-based economic contexts.

Programs

• Economics Major

• Economics Minor

• Economics Typical Four Year Curriculum

Return to: College of Business