BA in Economics

Program Learning Outcomes for BA in Economics Students graduating from this program will: Develop numerous mathematical, statistical and econometric skills, including a thorough knowledge of calculus, probability and statistics, and applied econometrics (including mastering the use of statistical software packages to analyze economic data and learning how to interpret statistical results). MTEC majors will also learn the elements of multiple variable calculus, linear algebra and optimization techniques, and other mathematical techniques utilized in more technical economic analyses. Learn the core principles of economics, including the basic concepts of microeconomics and macroeconomics such as supply and demand, utility maximization by consumers and profit maximization by firms, competitive and other market structures, market equilibrium, and analysis of the performance of the national economy. Learn how the basic principles they have absorbed are applied in economic analyses of a wide variety of applied and theoretical topics. Learn how to write clearly, concisely, and cogently on economic matters. Students in the MTEC program will also learn about the process of research in economics. Students will learn how to conduct a literature review on a topic, how to critically evaluate research that represents the current state-of-the-art, and how to apply their knowledge of economic principles and empirical methods to conducting and reporting on their own research. Students in the honors program will learn how to conduct economic research, beginning with forming a research idea and progressing to the formulation of an economic model to analyze the issue under consideration, the identification of testable hypotheses, the collection of data and econometric testing of their hypotheses, and the presentation of preliminary and final results. Degree Requirements for the BA, with a Major in Economics To earn a B.A. degree in Economics, students must present a minimum of 14 courses with a grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.0. When students repeat courses or complete more than the minimum required number of courses, the departmental GPA will be based on the set of courses that (1) satisfies all requirements for the degree, and (2) results in the highest GPA for the student. However, when a course is taken at both Rice and another institution, the grade in the Rice course will be used for departmental GPA calculations. CORE COURSES The 14 courses presented for the major in economics consist of three courses from Mathematics and Statistics and five courses from Economics and Econometrics. Mathematics and Statistics MATH 101 Single Variable Calculus I OR the combination of MATH 111 The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus and MATH 112 Calculus and Its Applications MATH 102 Single Variable Calculus II ECON 307/STAT 310 Probability and Statistics Economics and Econometrics ECON 100 Principles of Economics ECON 200 Microeconomics ECON 203 Macroeconomics ECON 209 Applied Econometrics ECON 300 Game Theory, Micro Topics for ECON Majors ELECTIVES Six elective courses in ECON, including at least three 400-level electives.