Economics

The Department of Economics is dedicated to promoting an understanding of the economic aspects of society and to cultivating in each student the ability to reason about economic issues – to provide a basis for intelligent, responsible participation in contemporary society.

The economics major consists of 10 economics classes with accompanying course work in mathematics. Classes emphasize the connection between economic models and real market applications, helping students hone their analytical, critical thinking, research, quantitative and writing skills.

A key part of the economics curriculum is the emphasis on student research. Research papers are required in a number of courses, and all majors undertake a two-term senior research project, the senior thesis. Students regularly present at Union’s Steinmetz Symposium. Past research topics have focused on the shifting dynamics of international currency reserves, the global co-working movement, piracy of intellectual property in the entertainment industry, World War II-era cartel practices, the economics of the fashion industry, deficits in Social Security and advertising in esports.

Economics majors have the opportunity to take part in an economics international exchange, either during fall term at the University of Antwerp, Belgium, or during winter term, with the IESEG School of Management in Lille, France. Up to four Union students typically are selected to participate in each program.

Students work closely with faculty in the Economics Club (Ceteris Paribus), Garnet Group (Student Investment Fund) and Women in Economics Society. The Garnet Group runs the winter term Wall Street Leadership Academy, targeted to competitively selected students.

Students also join the Entrepreneurs of the Nott, Entrepreneurship and U Marketing clubs. The Economics Department sponsors a faculty seminar series and joins with campus groups to host alumni talks, career panels, guest speakers and networking events.