Mar 29, 2024  
2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Economics Major, B.A.


Department of Economics  

College of Business  

  Available Program Format(s): In-Person  

MSU Denver’s Economics program is not a business program and Economics majors do not have the same requirements as other majors in the College of Business. For example, Economics majors do not need to take the business core. Graduates will receive a Bachelor of Arts degree instead of a Bachelor of Science degree.

About the Program


The Department of Economics is a non-business degree program housed in the College of Business offering a traditional Bachelor of Arts degree. Economics is the scientific study of the allocation of scarce or limited resources among competing uses. The study of economics provides specialized and general knowledge of the operation of economic systems and institutions. The bachelor of arts degree program gives students a fundamental knowledge of domestic and foreign economies and the quantitative tools necessary for independent analytical research and thought. Specialized courses develop the student’s ability to apply the tools of economic theory and analysis to a broad range of social, political, and economic issues. Such training is essential for graduates who wish to qualify for positions as professional economists and provides an excellent background for students interested in law school or graduate programs in economics, finance, or business. Majors interested in graduate studies in economics are highly encouraged to minor in mathematics.

Student Outcomes


Mission 

Our mission statement reflects our commitment.

The Department of Economics at the Metropolitan State University of Denver delivers a high quality, accessible bachelor of arts program in economics while also providing significant service to the University, the College of Business, and the community by providing accessible and quality general studies courses in the principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics. We prepare students for lifelong learning in a complex free civil society; for graduate or professional education in economics, business and legal studies, or the law; and for careers in a broad range of private and public activities. 

The Department of Economics pursues excellence in teaching and learning as its primary purpose. The faculty of the department engages in scholarly activity that contributes to the literature in applied and basic economic research and other professional activity that enhances quality instruction.

While most positions as a professional economist require graduate training, for someone with a bachelor’s degree employment opportunities are available in national and international business; federal, state and local government; and various nonprofit organizations.

Successful economics students will attain the following competencies: 

  • ability to examine, analyze, and interpret data; 
  • sound decision-making abilities; 
  • proficiency in oral and written communications; 
  • knowledge of economic theory, history, practices, and trends; 
  • knowledge of statistical procedures; 
  • ability to follow and interpret economic and political trends.

General Degree Requirements


To earn a degree, students must satisfy all requirements in each of the four areas below, in addition to their individual major requirements. 

Program Requirements


  • A total of 120 semester hours are required for graduation. 
  • A grade of “C-” or better is required for each course in this program to count toward the bachelor’s degree. Students should note that programs differ in the minimum grade required. 
  • A minor is required for this program. The Minor must be a minimum of 18 credits. 
  • A student must complete at least twelve (12) upper-division semester hours in economics at MSU Denver.

General Studies: 33 credits


Students should consult the General Studies Requirements  for a list of courses that fulfill the General Studies Requirements for degree completion. 

Multicultural Requirement: 0 or 3 credits


Students should consult the Multicultural Graduation Requirements  for a list of courses that fulfill the Multicultural Requirement for degree completion. 

Additional Requirements: 8 credits


Senior Experience: 3 credits


Economics with Secondary Social Studies Licensure:


Students interested in this concentration should visit the Economics Major, B.A. with Secondary Social Studies Teacher Licensure Concentration  page in the catalog.

Summary of Requirements


General Studies Requirement 33 credits
Multicultural Requirement 0-3 credits
Additional Requirements 8 credits
Major Requirements 15 credits
Major Electives 18 credits
Senior Experience 3 credits
Minor and Unrestricted Electives 40-52 credits
Total for the Economics Major, B.A. 120 credits

Required courses for the major may also count for General Studies and Multicultural requirements, so the total credits listed may be greater than the number required to complete the degree. Therefore, it is important that you work with your advisor to make sure you are meeting requirements for your degree.