Concentrations
Embarking on an economics major can be one of the most rewarding decisions you make. But choosing the best elective courses to take can be challenging. Is there a way to specialize in an area of interest within the major and highlight your particular skill set or interest to employers or graduate programs? To provide additional guidance, the Economics Department has developed concentrations within the major (for both BA and BS) that allow you to specialize in areas that resonate with your passions and career goals.
Each concentration consists of a cluster of elective classes you should complete to obtain the knowledge and skill set related to the concentration area. There are no additional requirements needed to complete a concentration area within your BA or BS major beyond the existing major requirements. You do not need to declare a concentration when you declare your major. Completing a concentration is optional. If you wish to do so, simply complete the courses needed to satisfy the concentration part of your elective requirements for the BA or BS.**
The approved concentration areas for Economics (both BA and BS majors) are as follows:
- International Economics
Are you curious about how trade, globalization, and international finance shape our world? This concentration allows you to analyze economic policies on a global scale, preparing you for careers in international business, international relations, diplomacy, or non-profits.
Complete 9 credit hours (3 courses) from the following:
- ECON 2151: Economic Development
- ECON 2169: Introduction to the Economy of China
- ECON 2181: International Trade Theory and Policy
- ECON 2182: International Macroeconomic Theory and Policy- Public Policy
For those driven to make a difference, this concentration focuses on the intersection of economics and government. You’ll analyze economic policies that affect communities, preparing you for roles in government, think tanks, or advocacy groups.
Complete 9 credit hours (3 courses) from the following:
- ECON 2123: Intro to Econometrics
- ECON 2136: Environmental and Natural Resource Economics
- ECON 2151: Economic Development
- ECON 2167: Economics of Crime
- ECON 2157: Urban & Regional Economics
- ECON 3142: Labor Economics
- ECON 3162: Public Finance - Taxation- Quantitative Analysis
If numbers excite you, a concentration in quantitative analysis allows you to delve deeper into the application of quantitative techniques on complex economic phenomena. This path can lead to lucrative careers in finance, consulting, and data science. It is also recommended for students considering graduate programs in economics.
Complete 9 credit hours (3 courses) from the following:
- ECON 2123: Intro to Econometrics
- ECON 3105: Economic Forecasting
- ECON 3142: Labor Economics
- ECON 3162: Public Finance - Taxation
- ECON 3199: Advanced Topics in Econometrics
Embrace the challenges and rewards that come with an economics major. With a clear focus on a concentration that excites you, you’re not just studying a subject; you’re setting the stage for a career that can make a difference. So take that first step—your future in economics awaits!
** If you complete all the courses required for a concentration area, you may state your economics major concentration on your CV or resume. However, concentration information would not show up on your transcript or on any official document from GW.