{"id":3708,"date":"2025-04-21T10:38:43","date_gmt":"2025-04-21T14:38:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/catalogs.wcsu.edu\/ugrad\/?page_id=3708"},"modified":"2025-10-03T14:17:19","modified_gmt":"2025-10-03T18:17:19","slug":"economics","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/catalogs.wcsu.edu\/ugrad\/sas\/programs\/economics\/","title":{"rendered":"Economics"},"content":{"rendered":"

Rotua Lumbantobing, Chair<\/strong>
\nlumbantobingr@wcsu.edu<\/a>
\nWestside Classroom Building 306, Westside Campus
\n(203) 837-8457<\/p>\n

Patricia Lerner, Department Secretary<\/strong>
\nlernerp@wcsu.edu<\/a>
\nWarner Hall 224, Midtown Campus
\n(203) 837-8484<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Faculty<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rotua Lumbantobing, Chair<\/strong><\/td>\nOluwole Owoye<\/td>\nZuohong Pan<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mission<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The B.A. in Economics program helps students understand how individuals, businesses, and societies make choices\u2014and how those choices affect economic outcomes. With a focus on both efficiency and equity, the program explores topics such as income inequality, discrimination, and the role of public policy in shaping economic opportunity. Students learn to analyze these issues through an economic lens, gaining tools to assess the impact of redistribution, regulation, and market performance. Grounded in the liberal arts tradition at Western, the curriculum fosters critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and a broad understanding of diverse perspectives. Graduates are prepared to become informed professionals and engaged citizens, ready to lead and contribute in an increasingly global and interconnected world.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Learning Outcomes<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n

At the completion of their studies, Economics majors will be able to demonstrate:<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Demonstrate a solid understanding of core economic theories, principles, and concepts.<\/li>\n
  2. Apply appropriate research methods and analytical tools used in economic inquiry.<\/li>\n
  3. Employ economic reasoning to evaluate real-world issues and inform decision-making.<\/li>\n
  4. Effectively locate, evaluate, and apply information and digital tools\u2014including emerging technologies like data analytics software and AI\u2014in economic analysis.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

     <\/p>\n

    <\/a>Degree Programs in Economics<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n

    B.A. Economics<\/a><\/p>\n

    Minors<\/strong>
    \n    Economics<\/a><\/p>\n

    <\/a>BA Economics<\/b><\/span><\/h3>\n

    Description<\/strong>:\u00a0 The BA in Economics program equips students to understand the world through an economic lens\u2014an increasingly valuable perspective in a time of rising inflation, shifting labor markets, global supply chain disruptions, and debates over climate and economic policy. Students gain a strong foundation in economic theory, data analysis, and decision-making, while exploring how economic forces shape business, government, and society. The program offers the rigor needed for graduate study and the versatility to pursue careers in law, finance, public policy, international affairs, and more. It\u2019s an ideal path for students who want both intellectual depth and broad career options.<\/p>\n

    Degree Requirements
    \n<\/strong>All degrees at WCSU require 120 semester hours (SH). This includes major requirements, general education requirements, and electives. This structure provides room for minors, internships, and study abroad.<\/p>\n

    Required Courses in the Major<\/strong>: 39 Semester Hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    ECO 211 Principles of Macroeconomics<\/td>\n3 SH<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    ECO 213 Principles of Microeconomics<\/td>\n3 SH<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    ECO 318 Intermediate Microeconomics<\/td>\n3 SH<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    ECO 319 Intermediate Macroeconomics<\/td>\n3 SH<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    SS 201 Researching Social Issues<\/td>\n3 SH<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    SS 300 Quantitative Research Methods in the Social Sciences<\/td>\n3 SH<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    SS 400 Senior Research Thesis OR<\/strong> ECO 450 Seminar in Economics Research (Students must contact their faculty advisor one semester prior to registering for this course).<\/td>\n3 SH<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Major Electives: Select any six economics courses 200 level or above.<\/td>\n18 SH<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    MAJOR DESIGNATED GENERAL EDUCATION COURSES<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    MAT 181 Calculus I\u00a0OR<\/strong> MAT 118\/118E Elementary Applied Mathematics<\/td>\n3-4 SH<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Students must earn a C (2.0)\u00a0or better SS 201, 300, and 400, and 2.0 in the major.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Minimum GPA for the BA in Economics = 2.0.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n


    \nGeneral Education<\/em><\/strong>: All students must complete the General Education curriculum.\u00a0 The WCSU General Education curriculum invites students to encounter a broad range of topics and skills in the liberal arts and sciences. The system requires students to successfully complete a minimum of 40 semester hours split across eleven learning areas.\u00a0 Generally, students can satisfy the requirements for a given learning area with any course they choose within that area; some programs of study may require specific Major Designated General Education Courses<\/em><\/strong>; if so, they will be listed with the program requirements.\u00a0 Additionally, the Racial Justice and Global Diversity requirements may be completed with courses which are part of the program requirements. For a complete description of the General Education program, follow this link: https:\/\/catalogs.wcsu.edu\/ugrad\/academic-programs-degrees\/<\/a><\/p>\n

    Electives<\/em><\/strong>:<\/strong>\u00a0All degrees require 120 semester hours.\u00a0\u00a0Elective credits are opportunities for minors, internships, study abroad, and just following general interests. We encourage all students to speak with their advisors about\u00a0great opportunities for their elective courses.<\/p>\n

    <\/a>Sample Four Year Plan: BA\u00a0Economics<\/strong>
    \nFour-year plans are suggestions. Plans change. Consult your faculty advisor to adjust your plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    Semester 1<\/strong><\/td>\nSH<\/strong><\/td>\nSemester 2<\/strong><\/td>\nSH<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Gen Ed: First Year Experience<\/td>\n1<\/td>\nGen Ed: Writing & Information Literacy<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    MAT 181 Calc OR<\/strong> MAT 118\/118E Elementary Applied Math<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nECO 211 Principles of Macroeconomics OR<\/strong> ECO 213 Principles of Microeconomics<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    COMP 101 Intro to Comp\/Rhetoric*<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nGen Ed: Social & Behavioral Sciences<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Gen Ed: Arts or Humanities**<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nGen Ed: Humanities**<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Elective<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nElective<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Elective<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nElective<\/td>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    \u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Semester 3<\/strong><\/td>\nSH<\/strong><\/td>\nSemester\u00a04<\/strong><\/td>\nSH<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    ECO 213 Principles of Microeconomics\u00a0OR<\/strong>\u00a0ECO 211\u00a0Principles\u00a0of Macroeconomics<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nECO 318 Intermediate Microeconomics<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    SS 201 Researching\u00a0Social Issues\u00a0OR<\/strong> Gen Ed: Breadth Elective<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nECO 200-400 Level Elective 2<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    ECO 200-400 Level Elective 1<\/td>\n4<\/td>\nGen Ed: Personal Wellness<\/td>\n2<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Gen Ed: Arts<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nGen Ed: Natural Sciences & Technology<\/td>\n4<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Gen Ed: Natural Sciences & Technology<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nGen Ed: Speech Communication<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    \u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Semester 5<\/strong><\/td>\nSH<\/strong><\/td>\nSemester 6<\/strong><\/td>\nSH<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    ECO 200-400 Level Elective 3<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nECO 200-400 Level Elective 4<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    ECO 319 Intermediate Macroeconomics<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nECO 200-400 Level Elective 5<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Gen Ed: Social & Behavioral Sciences<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nSS 300 Quant. Research Methods in the Social Sciences<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Elective<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nGen Ed: Social & Behavioral Sciences<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Elective<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nElective<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    <\/td>\n<\/td>\n<\/td>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Semester 7\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/td>\nSemester 8\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    SS 400 Senior Thesis Research Seminar\/ECO 450 Seminar in Economics Research OR<\/strong> Elective<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nSS 400 Senior Thesis Research Seminar\/ECO 450 Seminar in Economics Research OR<\/strong> Elective<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    ECO 200-400 Level Elective 6<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nElective<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Elective<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nElective<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Elective<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nElective<\/td>\n3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Elective<\/td>\n3<\/td>\nElective<\/td>\n2<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Students must earn a C (2.0)\u00a0or better SS 201, 300, and 400, and 2.0 in the major.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Total Credits Required for the BA in Economics = 120; Minimum GPA 2.0.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

    *May be taken in Semester 1 or Semester 2.<\/p>\n

    ** All Bachelor of Arts degrees at WCSU require students to study a language other than English to at least the elementary level II.\u00a0 Students who have completed three years of a language other than English in high school with an overall \u201cC\u201d average or completed a total of four years of two languages other than English in high school with an overall \u201cB\u201d average have met this requirement.\u00a0\u00a0Students who have completed this requirement in high school are not required to complete a foreign language requirement. However, for students in Economics, we strongly suggest that you consider exploring an additional foreign language or advancing your skills in the language studied in high school.<\/p>\n

    <\/a>
    \nMinor in Economics (18 SH)<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

    Description:<\/strong>\u00a0 The Economics minor adds depth and flexibility to any major by building strong analytical and problem-solving skills. It introduces students to the core principles of economic thinking\u2014how people, businesses, and governments make decisions\u2014and applies those tools to real-world issues. This minor brings intellectual rigor and versatility to fields like business, political science, environmental studies, and data science, giving students a competitive edge in both graduate studies and the job market.<\/p>\n

    The minor requires two foundational courses\u2014Principles of Microeconomics and Principles of Macroeconomics\u2014followed by four approved economics electives (200-level or above). This structure allows students to build a strong grasp of core economic concepts while tailoring the minor to their interests, whether in areas like public policy, international trade, labor economics, or environmental issues. The emphasis throughout is on analytical thinking, data interpretation, and practical application.<\/p>\n

    Required Courses:<\/b><\/em> 6 SH<\/strong>
    \nECO 211 Principles of Macroeconomics
    \nECO 213 Principles of Microeconomics<\/p>\n

    Four (4) Approved Economic Electives<\/b><\/em> (all of which must be 200-level or above)\u00a0 12 SH<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

    Rotua Lumbantobing, Chair lumbantobingr@wcsu.edu Westside Classroom Building 306, Westside Campus (203) 837-8457 Patricia Lerner, Department Secretary lernerp@wcsu.edu Warner Hall 224, Midtown Campus (203) 837-8484   Faculty Rotua Lumbantobing, Chair Oluwole Owoye Zuohong Pan   Mission The B.A. in Economics program …<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":0,"parent":91,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-3708","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/catalogs.wcsu.edu\/ugrad\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3708","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/catalogs.wcsu.edu\/ugrad\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/catalogs.wcsu.edu\/ugrad\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catalogs.wcsu.edu\/ugrad\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catalogs.wcsu.edu\/ugrad\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3708"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/catalogs.wcsu.edu\/ugrad\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3708\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catalogs.wcsu.edu\/ugrad\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/91"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/catalogs.wcsu.edu\/ugrad\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3708"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}