Its small size is conducive to close relationships between students and faculty. An active seminar series provides opportunities for professional interaction with the faculty and with visiting scholars. The excellent research library and computer facilities contribute to the academic atmosphere. Students play a significant role in the research and teaching activities of the department. The Department of Economics offers programs of study leading to the degree of Master of Arts in Economics and Doctor of Philosophy in Economics.
Students entering the programs represent most areas of the United States and many other nations.
Upon completion of degree requirements, graduates are placed in leading business firms, academic institutions, and numerous governmental agencies. The Department of Economics has a well-established doctoral program featuring a comprehensive yet flexible curriculum. The Department's strengths are in areas related to applied microeconomics and international economics. An emphasis on applied microeconomics is reflected in the first-year core requirements for the Ph.D., in which students are expected to take two courses in microeconomic theory and a course in game theory. It is also reflected in the area courses that we offer for students in their second year, where we often offer courses in labor economics, experimental economics, industrial organization, health economics, and environmental economics.