Web Page: http://www.umsl.edu/divisions/artscience/economics/economics.html
Degrees and Areas of Concentration
Several degree programs are offered by the economics department. The B.A. in economics provides a flexible liberal arts orientation for students. The B.S. in economics places more emphasis upon developing the analytical and quantitative skills used in analysis. Both degrees can be tailored to meet the career interests of the student.
The economics faculty considers research an integral part of good teaching. Research projects in recent years have dealt with energy, public choice, industrial organization, nonlinear modeling, property rights, wage discrimination, urban economic development, health economics and aging, economics of science, economics of gender, poverty and welfare, and government regulations.
The economics department also offers courses at the undergraduate level in geography.
A graduate program offers work leading to the M.A. degree in economics in preparation for careers in teaching, research, government, and industry. The program includes course work in macroeconomic theory, urban, international, industrial, and quantitative economics; and research methodology. The program can accommodate prospective full-time students as well as those who wish to study part-time solely in the evening. Classes are small, and student-faculty interaction is encouraged.
The economics department cooperates with the College of Business Administration and the Master's in Public Policy Administration program.
Departmental Honors
A student may earn departmental honors with a GPA of 3.6 in economics and the recommendation of the department.
Minor in Economics
A minor in economics is also available. See the following section for requirements.
Career Outlook
Economics is a language that provides the individual with a concise and logical way to study a wide range of problems and issues. It provides the flexibility for adapting to our ever-changing society, and it is also useful in everyday life. Thus, the economics major is excellent preparation for launching many careers. Economics graduates with a B.A. or B.S. degree pursue careers in banking, industry, and government. They use their training in economics as a foundation for a variety of jobs in management, personnel, sales, and marketing. Others continue their study of economics in graduate schools, earning M.A. and Ph.D. degrees. An undergraduate major in economics also provides a strong background for work on an M.B.A. or law degree. Economics is also important for careers in politics, journalism, and public and private service in foreign countries. Career planning materials are available in the Economics Resource Center, 452 SSB. For additional information, call the Director of Graduate Studies at 516-5560.