Program Overview
The Master of Arts Degree in Economics offers the opportunity to engage in the study of contemporary economic issues. The curriculum also provides an innovative approach to the study of economic issues and problems from orthodox and alternative economic perspectives. Students will gain knowledge and understanding of economics analysis not only from the traditional point of view, but also from that of minority people and developing countries. Attuned to current problems of American and world economies, the program should attract a diverse group of students who wish to pursue a graduate study in applied Economics.
Program Objectives
- Engage students in the study of orthodox and alternative theories, contemporary issues and innovative approaches in economics.
- Prepare students to analyze and solve local and global economic problems and policy issues.
- Introduce students to quantitative and qualitative analytical evaluative tools applicable to the discipline of economics.
- Promote ethical values in economic policies, practices and decision-making.
- Train students to practice effective written and oral communication and leadership skills and disposition.
- Introduce students to the global marketplace, its relationship to everyday economics and policy decisions, and different methods/strategies used to enter regional and world markets.
- Prepare students for successful careers as well as advanced studies in the fields of business and economics.
Admissions Requirements
The Department follows the General Admissions Requirements of the University published in this Catalog. However, applicants for the Master of Arts Degree in Economics are required to have an undergraduate major in economics or a related field and have demonstrated ability to succeed in graduate study. If these degrees were awarded more than five years prior to admission to the Master of Arts Degree in Economics, applicants must complete proficiency examinations in intermediate macroeconomics and microeconomics and attain a minimum grade of "B" in each proficiency examination.
Applicants whose undergraduate major is other than Economics or who have not taken Intermediate Macroeconomics and Intermediate Microeconomics are required to take these prerequisite courses.
Student Learning Outcomes
Students pursuing the Master of Arts Degree in Economics will:
- Understand multiple economic concepts and analytical tools;
- Apply a variety of interconnected economics concepts and theories to solve economic problems and policy issues of community, national and global importance.
- Identify and apply appropriate analytical methodology to collect data and analyze economic problems.
- Communicate effectively in oral and written formats to diverse audiences utilizing appropriate technology.
- Apply ethical values in economic policies, practices and decision-making.
- Apply leadership theories, concepts and styles for managing conflicts, negotiating and evaluating economic opportunities.
- Apply appropriate macro- and micro-economic tools to evaluate and identify economic opportunities, make effective policy decisions, and recommend appropriate actions.
