B.A. Degree with a Major in Economics with Concentration in International Politics and Policy

The B.A. in Economics provides a basis for professional work in business and government or for graduate study. In addition, the B.A. in Economics complements many other areas of study, such as political science, history, or mathematics, as part of a double major. The International Politics and Policy concentration is intended for students who are interested in the intersection of economics and policy and have interests in studying economics in a broad international context. This concentration is ideal for students interested in pursuing double majors in political science or history and working in governmental or non-governmental international organizations. In terms of graduate study, this concentration would be more suited to a law degree or Master's degree programs in public policy, international relations, diplomacy or economic development. Students should consult with their academic adviser for help in determining which concentration will best suit their goals for future study or career.

Requirements for the Major

A major in Economics is achieved by completion of the following requirements, in addition to the General Education and electives required for a degree:

Required Core Courses

ECO 101, ECO 102, PSC 100, ECO 250 or PSC 235, ECO/PSC 360

Required Capstone Courses

ECO 310 (1/2-credit) and 410 (1/2-credit)

Required Theory Courses

Two courses (one ECO and one non-ECO) from: ECO 301, ECO 302, HIS 224, HIS 229, PSC 220, PSC 250, and PSC 325.

Required Policy Application Courses

Three courses (at least two ECO) selected from the following: ECO 332, ECO 341, ECO 347, ECO 370, HIS 270, PSC 352 (pre-req PSC 220), PSC 355 (pre-req PSC 250), or other 200 level or above courses as approved by the program

Required Collateral Courses

MAT 115 with a C or higher

Required ECO Credits

Students must complete a minimum of 6 credits in ECO courses at the 200 level or above.

Exploring the Major

Students considering Economics with a Concentration in International Politics and Policy as a major should begin exploring the discipline through the Program’s introductory courses—ECO 101 and ECO 102, and through various Special Topics courses offered during regular or summer terms.

Admission to the Major

No special curricular requirements must be met for admission into this major.

Course Sequencing Considerations (in order to complete degree requirements within eight terms)

Prospective Economics majors with a concentration in International Politics and Policy should: 1) Complete the Developmental Mathematics requirement, if applicable, as soon as possible because this is a prerequisite for both ECO 101 and ECO 102, which are the foundational courses for Economics, and one or both are therefore required for any 300-level ECO course. 2) Complete PSC 100 as soon as possible because, in addition to being a major requirement, it is a prerequisite for two of the PSC theory courses that could be selected to meet the non-ECO theory requirement, and it is the first in a series of courses required to take either of the PSC courses that a student could select in meeting the policy application requirement. 3) Follow the Mathematics sequence, completing or waiving MAT 115. This Mathematics course serves as a prerequisite for ECO 250 and required theory courses for Economics majors. Students interested in taking ECO 302 as their theory course must also complete or waive MAT 135 as early as possible because it is a prerequisite. Junior standing is preferred for ECO 310 and senior standing for ECO 410. Students may enroll in up to two program Internship experiences for a maximum of three credits. However, no more than one credit from Internships may be counted toward the major requirements.

Proficiency Requirements for Retention in and Completion of the Major

In addition to completing specified course requirements, each student must satisfy program standards for written and oral communication. (For more about these standards, please see the Program's website.) Opportunities to do so are provided in a number of courses throughout the curriculum. The Program also requires that a majority of courses taken to satisfy major and minor degree requirements must be taken at Berea College.

Economics & Business

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