The economics major offers the opportunity to apply theoretical analysis and empirical techniques to current economic problems and policy issues.

Moreover, economic tools, techniques, and analytic methods are used every day in public policy and the business world. There is, therefore, a carryover from what you will learn as an economics major and what you will utilize every day in the real world.

This guide can help you decide whether the economics major is for you and, if it is, help you plan your course schedule. All Department of Economics faculty members will be happy to assist you in this planning, even before you declare a major.

Even if you choose not to major in economics, you can benefit from this guide. Economic analysis is useful in studying history, political science, and sociology, as well as certain issues in the natural sciences and humanities. If you have any questions about specific courses, consult an Economics Department faculty member.

Planning Your Schedule

Advising: Your pre-major advisor will help plan your initial course schedule. Upon declaring an economics major, usually in sophomore year, you’ll be assigned a major advisor in the Economics Department. For the major declaration process, see our declaring a major page. In your senior year, a thesis advisor will be assigned based on your thesis topic. All Economics faculty members can assist with course planning at any stage. For more information on a thesis in economics, see our thesis page.

Recommended Courses for First Three Semesters: Prospective economics majors should aim to complete ECON 250 and MATH 105 within their first three semesters, both courses are offered in fall and winter.

Introductory Courses: Although not required, most students are encouraged to begin with an introductory economics course (ECON 150-169). Those with a strong background in economics and math may start with ECON 260 or 270. See our academic program page for more on major requirements.

Off-Campus Study: Students interested in off-campus study program should plan to complete at least three of the four core courses (ECON 250, 255, 260, 270) and at least two 300-level electives at Bates.

Exclusion:  Economics majors may not combine the Applying Mathematics Methods (GEC C006) with Economics Major for General Education.

Related Courses

Because of the numerous, vital, and constantly developing interconnections between economics and other disciplines, economics majors are encouraged to explore how their knowledge and skills can be applied in conjunction with courses in other departments or programs.

Several courses in other departments will enrich your understanding of economics. Some history courses touch upon and develop economic themes, as do several sociology, anthropology, and political science courses.

If you are considering graduate study in economics, you should take additional courses in mathematics. You may find some philosophy and psychology offerings relevant to the economics major. Indeed, there are always a few students who complete double majors in economics and other fields.