Economics, BA

Economics is a social science and, as such, an important component of the liberal arts curriculum. At the core of economics are theories of how individuals, firms, and other organizations make choices and interact, taking into account constraints on their behaviors. Among the topics studied in economics are the determination of prices and quantities in various types of markets (from perfectly competitive commodity markets to highly regulated utility markets and internet auctions); the effects of taxes, subsidies, and regulations; the determination of aggregate economic activity (e.g., GDP, unemployment); inflation, monetary policy, and financial intermediation; economic growth and income distribution; and international trade and international finance (e.g., exchange rates). The Economics Major provides training in economic principles and provides a useful background for students preparing for a career in public policy, business, or finance.

The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 32. Double majors may entail more course units.

For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.

College General Education Requirements and Free Electives
Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives20
Major Requirements
10 course units of Economics - 6 course units must be taken in the Economics Department at the University of Pennsylvania
Introduction to Micro and Macro Economics 2
ECON 0100Introduction to Micro Economics1
ECON 0200Introductory Economics: Macro1
Or Waiver Conversion Complete
Intro Micro/Macro - For WHARTON Students Only
Introductory Economics for Business Students
Select an additional 4000-level ECON course 3
Intermediate Level Micro and Macro Economics 4
ECON 2100Intermediate Microeconomics1
ECON 2200Intermediate Macroeconomics1
Statistics1-2
Select one of the following:
Option 1:
Statistics for Economists
Option 2:
Probability
Statistical Inference
Econometrics
ECON 2310Econometric Methods and Models1
ECON Electives
Select 4 economics courses at the 4000 level-ECON 4000-49994
Mathematics Requirement2
Mathematics of change, Part I
and Mathematics of change, Part II
Or
Calculus, Part I
and Calculus, Part II
Honors Calculus
Total Course Units32-33
*

LPS academic year courses ECON 0100 Introduction to Micro EconomicsECON 0200 Introductory Economics: MacroECON 2100 Intermediate MicroeconomicsECON 2200 Intermediate Macroeconomics, or ECON 2300 Statistics for Economists ONLY may be used for the Major.

1

You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement.

2

ECON 0100 Introduction to Micro Economics and ECON 0200 Introductory Economics: Macro are prerequisites for all economics courses. ECON 0100 Introduction to Micro Economics is the prerequisite for ECON 0200 Introductory Economics: Macro.

3

ECON course required if BEPP 1000 Introductory Economics for Business Students is taken.

4

ECON 2100 Intermediate Microeconomics is a prerequisites for all 2000-level economics courses & ECON 2200 Intermediate Macroeconomics for many.

Honors

Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 in Economics.

Pre-Requisites
ECON 0100Introduction to Micro Economics1
ECON 0200Introductory Economics: Macro1
ECON 2100Intermediate Microeconomics1
ECON 2200Intermediate Macroeconomics1
ECON 2300Statistics for Economists1
ECON 2310Econometric Methods and Models1
Two 2000 level courses2
Year Long Thesis
ECON 4900Honors Seminar1
ECON 4910Honors Seminar (II)1

 


The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.