Economics B.A.
Economics is a social science that seeks to understand human behavior by analyzing how changes in incentives affect the choices individuals and groups of individuals make. The basic challenge of economic decision-making involves satisfying unlimited human wants with limited resources. Exploring this central economic concept becomes even more complex when a specific society’s values, objectives, and institutions are considered. Marymount’s B.A. in economics uses this economic framework to understand a broad range of diverse issues including business operations, environmental policy issues, poverty, law, financial institutions, and international trade, among others.
Marymount’s location in the metropolitan Washington, DC area provides the perfect setting for real-time analysis and experience via site visits, internship opportunities, and guest speakers from think tanks and government agencies. Small class sizes allow extensive individual interaction with professors.
A degree in economics prepares students for careers in government, consulting, and business. Indeed, average starting salaries for undergraduate economics majors are routinely among the highest among all undergraduate programs. Studying economics also provides an excellent foundation for graduate studies in law, public policy, international studies, or business.
Students majoring in economics will be encouraged by advisors to choose their elective courses with specific postgraduate goals in mind. The economics degree provides ample elective credits for students to explore additional academic interests in fields like business, politics, mathematics, history, English, sociology, philosophy, and psychology.
Upon successful completion of the economics program, students will be able to
- understand economic analysis and use its concepts to provide insight into a wide range of human concerns;
- communicate economic information and concepts effectively in both written and oral forms of communication; and
- work effectively as an entry-level research or policy analyst and develop opportunities and techniques for lifelong professional development.
Internship Prerequisites: A minimum of 90 credits in the program with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 and a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 in all 300- and 400-level economics courses are required in order to register for the internship (ECO 490). Students should also have completed a minimum of 9 credits in 300- and 400-level economics courses. Students should consult their academic advisor and the School of Business and Technology internship coordinator for more information.
Residency Requirement: Students must complete a minimum of 18 credits from the 300- and 400-level major degree requirements at Marymount.
