Program Overview
The Economics Associate in Arts Degree Program at Cañada College provides a comprehensive exploration of economic concepts and principles. Students develop a solid understanding of macroeconomic and microeconomic perspectives, enabling them to analyze economic phenomena and make informed decisions. The program prepares graduates for careers in economics, finance, marketing, policy analysis, and other fields that require economic analysis and decision-making skills.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Economics Associate in Arts Degree Program
Overview:
The Economics Associate in Arts Degree Program at Cañada College is a comprehensive program that explores the fundamental concepts and principles of economics. It investigates the production, consumption, and allocation of resources under conditions of scarcity, providing students with a deep understanding of the economic landscape.
Objectives:
Upon completion of this program, students will possess:
- A solid grasp of social science concepts and theories, enabling them to analyze economic phenomena from multiple perspectives.
- The ability to evaluate diverse viewpoints related to economics and the human experience, fostering critical thinking and informed decision-making.
- Proficiency in constructing evidence-based arguments, allowing them to communicate economic ideas effectively and persuasively.
Outline:
Program Core:
- ECON 100: Principles of Macroeconomics (3 units): This course introduces the macroeconomic perspective, examining economic growth, inflation, employment, international trade, and the role of government and monetary policies.
- ECON 102: Principles of Microeconomics (3 units): Students explore the microeconomic viewpoint, focusing on the behavior of consumers and firms, the determination of prices, and the efficient allocation of resources.
Selective Courses:
- ACTG 121: Financial Accounting (4 units): Introduces the principles and practices of financial accounting, providing a foundation for understanding financial statements.
- ACTG 131: Managerial Accounting (4 units): Explores managerial accounting techniques and principles, emphasizing their role in decision-making within organizations.
- ANTH 110: Cultural Anthropology (3 units): Examines the diversity of human cultures, investigating social structures, beliefs, values, and practices.
- ECON 230: Economic History of the United States (3 units): Traces the evolution of the American economy, exploring key events, policies, and their impact on economic development.
- HIST 101: History of Western Civilization II (3 units): Surveys the history of Western civilization from the Middle Ages to the present, providing context for economic developments.
- HIST 201: U.S. History through 1877 (3 units): Delves into the history of the United States from its colonial origins to the Reconstruction era, highlighting economic themes.
- HIST 202: U.S. History from 1877 to the Present (3 units): Explores the history of the United States from the Industrial Revolution to the present day, examining economic transformations.
- IDST 150: Honors Research Seminar (1 unit): Provides an opportunity for students to engage in research, develop critical thinking skills, and present their findings.
- MATH 200: Elementary Probability and Statistics (4 units): Introduces the fundamentals of probability and statistics, equipping students with analytical tools for economic analysis.
- MATH 241: Business Calculus I (5 units): Covers differentiation and integration techniques essential for understanding economic models.
- MATH 251: Analytical Geometry and Calculus I (5 units): Provides a rigorous foundation in calculus, including limits, derivatives, and integrals.
- PHIL 100: Introduction to Philosophy (3 units): Explores fundamental philosophical questions, fostering critical thinking and logical reasoning skills.
- PSYC 100: General Psychology (3 units): Introduces the scientific study of human behavior, providing insights into consumer psychology and market research.
Assessment:
Assessment in the program utilizes a variety of methods to evaluate student learning and progress:
- Exams: Midterm and final exams test students' understanding of core concepts, theories, and analytical techniques.
- Quizzes: Regular quizzes assess students' comprehension of specific topics and provide opportunities for formative feedback.
- Assignments: Homework assignments, projects, and essays evaluate students' problem-solving skills, research abilities, and critical thinking capabilities.
- Presentations: Students may be required to present their findings from research projects or participate in class discussions, demonstrating their communication and presentation skills.
- Course Participation: Active participation in class discussions and online forums is considered in the assessment of student learning.
Teaching:
Instructional Methods
The program employs a diverse range of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles:
- Lectures: Professors deliver engaging lectures that present core concepts, theories, and case studies.
- Discussions: Class discussions foster interaction, allow students to share perspectives, and enhance critical thinking.
- Simulations: Interactive simulations provide practical experiences that reinforce economic principles.
- Case Studies: Analysis of real-world case studies helps students apply economic theories to practical scenarios.
- Guest Speakers: Industry professionals and economists may be invited to share their expertise and provide insights.
Faculty
The program is taught by experienced and knowledgeable faculty who are passionate about economics and dedicated to student success. They hold advanced degrees in economics or related fields and bring a wealth of research and practical experience to the classroom.
Careers:
Graduates of the Economics Associate in Arts Degree Program are prepared for a wide range of careers that involve economic analysis and decision-making:
- Economist: Conduct research, analyze economic data, and provide insights to businesses, governments, and other organizations.
- Financial Analyst: Evaluate investment opportunities, make recommendations, and manage portfolios.
- Market Researcher: Collect and interpret data to understand consumer behavior and market trends.
- Policy Analyst: Research and analyze economic policies to inform decision-making.
- Sales and Marketing Manager: Develop and implement sales and marketing strategies based on economic principles.
- Teacher: Teach economics at high schools, community colleges, or universities.
- Government Employee: Work in government agencies that focus on economic policy, regulation, or forecasting.
- Nonprofit Organization: Utilize economic principles to address social and environmental issues.