Bachelor of Arts - Economics Major/Minor

Upon completion of this program, students are able to:

1. Discuss the theories and principles of microeconomics including trade and comparative advantage, the functioning of markets, consumer theory, uncertainty and risk, production and costs, market structure under varying competitive conditions, price theory, public good provisions, externalities and other market failures, environmental protection, taxation and welfare economics.
2. Discuss the theories and principles of macroeconomics including economic fluctuations, growth and development; unemployment; inflation, interest rates, deficits and debt, balance of payments and exchange rates, fiscal, monetary and various other polices using economic growth models, aggregate demand and supply as well as other applicable models.
3. Collect, analyze and interpret relevant economic information from multiple sources.
4. Demonstrate how quantitative/statistical methods and software packages can be used to examine economic data.
5. Describe the role of government and institutions in the economy including taxation, spending, regulation and production.
6. Integrate ethical concerns including efficiency, fairness, equity and individual freedom in policy development.
7. Analyze the behaviour of individuals, businesses and industries in market-based systems; social issues; and the challenges of developing economies using different microeconomic and macroeconomic theories and principles.
8. Assess and revise public policies addressing both market and non-market issues.
9. Apply economic theories and principles in a professional setting.

The Economics Major requires the completion of at least 51 credits consisting of 45 credits in economics, 3 credits in mathematics and 3 credits from disciplines within the Faculty of Arts. From the 45 credits in economics, a minimum of 30 credits must be at the upper level (3000 and 4000 levels) of which no less than 6 credits must be at the 4000 level.

Students normally declare a major at the beginning of their third year, but they must meet specific lower level requirements to be admitted.

Upper level courses in ECON may not be offered every year. Contact an academic advisor to determine what is being scheduled in the coming semesters.