Economics

"The Economics program at Indiana University Bloomington offers students a comprehensive education in the field of economic theory, policy, and analysis. Designed to develop critical thinking and quantitative skills, the curriculum prepares students for diverse career paths in business, government, research, and academia. Students will explore fundamental economic concepts, including microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, gaining a solid understanding of how markets function and how economic agents make decisions. The program emphasizes the application of analytical tools and statistical methods to analyze real-world issues, such as inflation, unemployment, economic growth, and international trade. Through a combination of theoretical coursework and practical experience, students develop the ability to interpret economic data, evaluate policies, and make informed recommendations. The program also offers opportunities for specialization in areas like behavioral economics, development economics, and financial economics, enabling students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Indiana University Bloomington's faculty includes leading researchers and practitioners dedicated to student success and intellectual exploration. Students benefit from a vibrant academic community, state-of-the-art facilities, and numerous research centers. The Economics program prepares graduates for advanced study or entry-level positions in finance, consulting, public policy, and more, equipping them with the skills needed to analyze complex economic issues and contribute meaningfully to society."

1. Introductory Economics. Complete both:
   • ECON-E 201 Introduction to Microeconomics
   • ECON-E 202 Introduction to Macroeconomics
2. Mathematics. Complete both:
   1. MATH-M 118 Finite Mathematics
   2. One of the following:
      • MATH-M 119 Brief Survey of Calculus
      • MATH-M 211 Calculus I
      • MATH-M 213 Accelerated Calculus
3. Intermediate Economic Theory. Complete both:
   • ECON-E 321 Intermediate Microeconomic Theory
   • ECON-E 322 Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory
4. Statistics.
   • ECON-E 370 Statistical Analysis for Business and Economics
5. Econometrics. Complete one (1) course selected from the following:
   • ECON-E 371 Introduction to Applied Econometrics
   • ECON-E 471 Econometric Theory and Practice I
6. Advanced Elective.
   • Complete one (1) additional course at the 300–400 level, excluding ECON-E 496 and X373
7. Concentration or Additional Advanced Courses. Complete one (1) of the following options, taking all courses in residence on the Bloomington campus:
   1. An Economics Concentration (see requirements below)
   2. Three (3) courses (beyond those completed for requirements 3–6 above) above ECON-E 322, excluding ECON-E 496 and X373

Economics Concentrations

Students may elect to complete up to two 9-credit-hour areas of concentration listed below, which they must declare through an Economics academic advisor. Any course in which the student earns a grade below C– may not be used to fulfill a concentration requirement. The grade point average of all courses taken in the concentration must be at least 2.000. Completing an area of concentration becomes part of the official transcript of the student and allows students to develop additional expertise in specific areas of Economics.

Financial and Monetary Economics

Complete three (3) courses selected from the following:

• ECON-E 332 International Monetary Economics
• ECON-E 337 Economic Development
• ECON-E 390 Undergraduate Seminar in Economics ("Computational Methods in Macroeconomics" topic only)
• ECON-E 425 Financial Economics

International and Development Economics

Complete three (3) courses selected from the following:

• ECON-E 331 International Trade
• ECON-E 332 International Monetary Economics
• ECON-E 337 Economic Development
• ECON-E 386 Soviet-Type Economies in Transition
• ECON-E 390 Undergraduate Seminar in Economics ("Economic Growth" topic only)
• ECON-E 390 Undergraduate Seminar in Economics ("International Trade" topic only)

Economics of the Public Sector and Labor Markets

Complete three (3) courses selected from the following:

• ECON-E 341 Economics of Labor Markets
• ECON-E 351 Law and Economics
• ECON-E 361 Public Finance: Government Spending
• ECON-E 362 Public Finance: Taxation

Strategic Interaction

Complete three (3) courses selected from the following:

• ECON-E 327 Game Theory
• ECON-E 351 Law and Economics
• ECON-E 385 Economics of Industry
• ECON-E 427 Seminar in Experimental Economics

The undergraduate program in Economics at Indiana University Bloomington requires students to complete a total of approximately 120 credit hours to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and their applications to real-world issues. Core courses include Introduction to Microeconomics and Macroeconomics, which are essential for understanding individual and aggregate economic behaviors. Students are also expected to take intermediate courses such as Intermediate Microeconomics and Intermediate Macroeconomics to deepen their understanding of economic models and analysis.

Quantitative skills are emphasized through coursework in econometrics and statistics, preparing students to analyze data effectively. The program includes mandatory mathematics courses, such as Calculus, to support the analytical rigor required in economic modeling. Outside of the core requirements, students have the option to choose from a variety of electives in specialized fields like environmental economics, health economics, international economics, and public finance.

Additionally, students must complete a capstone course or project that integrates their learning and demonstrates their ability to analyze complex economic issues. To enrich their education, students are encouraged to participate in internships, research projects, and study abroad programs. The university also offers minors in Economics, which require fewer courses but still provide a comprehensive overview of economic principles.

The program also stipulates a certain GPA threshold for progression and graduation, typically around 2.0, although higher standards may be recommended for honors pathways. Transfer students may have specific credit transfer policies but are generally required to meet the same core course requirements. The department emphasizes active learning, critical thinking, and quantitative analysis, preparing students for careers in business, government, or further study in graduate programs.

Overall, the program aims to develop students' analytical skills, economic reasoning, and understanding of how economic forces shape societies and policies. Students are advised to consult the official Indiana University Bloomington catalog or departmental advisement resources for the most current curriculum stipulations and elective options.

Scholarships

• Global Education
• Global Engagement Scholarships
• Need-based scholarships

The Economics Bachelor of Arts (BA) program at Indiana University Bloomington offers students a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare them for a wide range of careers in business, government, and academia. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications of economic analysis, enabling students to develop critical thinking, quantitative skills, and a solid understanding of economic principles that are applicable across various sectors. Students have the opportunity to explore microeconomics, macroeconomics, international economics, and labor economics, among other areas, through a variety of coursework and research projects.

The program often emphasizes experiential learning, including opportunities for internships, collaborative research, and participation in student organizations related to economics. Indiana University Bloomington aims to foster an environment where students can develop strong analytical abilities, communicate economic concepts effectively, and apply their knowledge to real-world problems. The Economics major can also serve as a stepping stone for further graduate studies in economics, law, business, or public policy.

Students in the program are encouraged to acquire quantitative skills such as statistics, econometrics, and data analysis, which are vital for modern economic research and analysis. Faculty members are distinguished researchers and experienced educators committed to mentoring students and encouraging academic excellence. The university’s robust resources include access to economic databases, research centers, and seminars that enhance the learning experience.

The program also offers flexibility for students to tailor their coursework toward specific interests, such as financial economics, public policy, or development economics. Indiana University Bloomington supports students in their career endeavors through career counseling, job placement services, and networking opportunities with alumni and industry professionals. Graduates of the program often find employment in financial institutions, government agencies, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations, or pursue advanced degrees in economics and related disciplines. The program’s integrated approach ensures that students graduate prepared to analyze complex economic issues and contribute effectively in their chosen careers.