Economics 111 is the starting point for the economics major. It provides an introduction to the basic tools essential for all areas of economics, as well as a survey of current economic issues and problems. Economics 111 is a requisite for all other courses in economics. After completing Economics 111 a student may enroll in any of a variety of applied courses. For the lower-level elective courses, numbered in the 200s, Economics 111 is the only economics prerequisite.
Students may be excused from the requirement of taking Economics 111 if they demonstrate an adequate understanding of basic economic principles. Four specific ways of being excused from the Economics 111 requirement are:
- Attaining a grade of 4 or 5 on both the macro and micro portion of the Advanced Placement Exam
- Passing a placement exam that is given by the department typically at the beginning of each semester
- Attaining a grade of 6 or 7 on the higher level International Baccalaureate in Economics
- Attaining a grade of A on the A levels
Please see the department website placement page for up-to-date information on these exemptions.
If a student is excused from the Economics 111 requirement and then becomes an economics major, they are still responsible for taking a total of 9 economics courses (or 10 if doing honors) to complete the economics major. That usually means taking at least six (rather than five) elective courses in addition to the three core theory courses.
If you have any questions about these policies, consult a member of the economics faculty.