Economics provides a lens through which we can better understand and improve our world. Whether you major or minor in economics, you will learn the general principles of economics, microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, statistics and econometrics, with an emphasis on analytic and quantitative approaches.
Undergraduate Program
Economics majors take a minimum of 10 courses: six core courses and four electives. Students have the opportunity to participate in departmental events and lectures, do individual research and engage with and serve the wider community. Students may also minor in Economics.
5-Year BA/MA Program
Brandeis undergraduates may participate in the combined BA/MA program — for which they receive a bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degree in economics plus a master of arts in international economics and finance (MAief) after a fifth year of study. The curriculum targets financial and economic skills needed to understand the global economy and international finance.
Graduate Programs
Graduate programs in economics are available through the Brandeis International Business School, a pioneering professional school dedicated to teaching and research in global finance, management and economic policy.
Alumni
Graduates of the economics program have gone on to become leaders in business, government and the academic world. Popular careers for recent graduates include consulting, finance, insurance, economic think-tanks and the government. Recent graduates have entered top economics PhD programs including MIT, Harvard and the University of Chicago.
How to Find Us
The Economics Department is located in the Sachar International Center, which also houses the Brandeis International Business School. Close ties to the International Business School provide students with the opportunity to take master’s and PhD level courses in economics and finance. Students can also take courses on health economics and public policy through The Heller School. Interdisciplinary courses that combine economics with other disciplines in the arts and sciences are also available for economics students.
Student Spotlight
Economics, Applied Mathematics
Applying to Brandeis, Ada's intention was to major in Health: Science, Society, and Policy, noting that she wanted to "do something different" from the economist background prevalent in her family. Encouraged by a friend to try Prof. Clarke's Econ 2a (Survey of Economics), she was hooked. "Once I found it, I got involved and became a TA for the department. I really enjoyed those opportunities at Brandeis."
Ada adds that she feels well prepared for the future as Brandeis allowed her to explore many facets of the major. She plans to pursue her Master's Degree in Economics at Bocconi University in Milan, Italy, and ultimately earn her PhD in the field as well. We look forward to seeing what the future holds!
Women in Economics
Long before women were widely welcomed in the profession, Brandeis Emeriti Professors Anne Carter and Rachel McCulloch were not only conducting ground-breaking research in technological change and international trade, but they were also breaking down barriers for women in the profession.