Markets are the primary means of economic interaction among the earth's inhabitants.
The study of markets for labor, land and capital, the understanding of economic systems, the analysis of current issues, insight into management processes, these are the subject matters of Lafyette's economic and business curriculum. Of all the bachelor of arts programs at Lafayette, economics and business has the most majors. The department also offers a minor and, in conjunction with the mathematics department, offers a joint mathematics-economics major. Well-qualified students are encouraged to conduct independent study and honors research. All economics and business majors become proficient with Excel including its graphics and data capabilities, and econometric software.