Program Overview

Program Overview

Economic theories help us make sense of complex issues such as healthcare, law, and the environment. At Maxwell, our curriculum emphasizes the application of economics to the study of public policy issues and the role of government in a market economy.

Degree Options

• B.A. in Economics: Students explore intersecting factors that affect policy and market outcomes. With an emphasis on applied economics, students tackle relevant, real-world problems. Students train for careers that value evidence-based decision-making.
• B.S. in Economics: The STEM-designated B.S. program builds statistical and mathematical skills necessary to work as a professional economist or pursue graduate work in economics. Learn more about combining the B.S. with a master of arts degree in economics, which can be completed in one additional year. Up to four courses, including two of the B.S. required courses, can be counted towards both the bachelor’s and the master’s degrees.
• Minor in Economics: A minor in economics will introduce you to the basic concepts of economics and how they are used to analyze areas of international trade, economic behavior, healthcare, taxation, and more. The minor program requires six courses (18 credits). Students will take two Principles of Economics courses and four upper-division economics courses.

Honors and Awards

• Honors Distinction in Economics: This program is designed to support undergraduate students who want to conduct original, high-quality research in economics. Students who complete this rigorous program and maintain a 3.4 grade point average will be recognized with this distinction on their transcript.
• JoAnn Heffernan Heisen Award: This competitive award recognizes an outstanding graduating senior in economics and is based on a nomination letter, academic performance, a writing sample, and, if relevant, participation in an economics research project such as a class project, internship, honors thesis, or independent study.

Research Opportunities

• Conduct Meaningful Research: As a Maxwell undergraduate student, you will conduct original research as a required element of your degree program. Students have additional opportunities to conduct research, including participation in the following:
  • Renée Crown Honors Program
  • Economics Honors Distinction Program
  • Young Research Fellows Program, provided by The SOURCE
  • Assist faculty or serve as a student worker at a Maxwell or Syracuse University research center.
  • Share your work with your peers and professors at Maxwell's annual Celebration of Undergraduate Scholarship.

Professional Development

• Omicron Delta Epsilon: Outstanding economics majors are invited to become lifetime members in the Omicron Delta Epsilon (O.D.E.) International Honor Society. The society exists to form a community of economists across countries. Membership is based on scholarly achievement and is recognized worldwide.
• Career Resources: Maxwell students have access to many career tools and resources, including Syracuse University’s exclusive online job and internship portal, alumni directories, networking treks, and skill-building resources needed to apply for jobs or graduate school. As you start thinking about your post-graduation goals, career advisors are available—in person, via drop-in virtual appointment, and via text—to help translate your academic work into professional opportunities.