Program Overview
Computer Science - Economics
The joint Computer Science-Economics concentration exposes students to the theoretical and practical connections between computer science and economics.
Degree Type
- A.B.
- Sc.B.
Department
- Department of Economics
CIP Code
- 11.0101
The Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) was developed by the U.S. Department of Education to categorize educational programs in the U.S. for a variety of reporting purposes. Each program at Brown is assigned a CIP code that best matches its academic curriculum.
Related Academic Areas
- Computer Science
- Economics
Program Description
The joint Computer Science-Economics concentration prepares students for professional careers that incorporate aspects of economics and computer technology and for academic careers conducting research in areas that emphasize the overlap between the two fields. Concentrators may choose to pursue either the A.B. or the Sc.B. degree. While the A.B. degree allows students to explore the two disciplines by taking advanced courses in both departments, its smaller number of required courses is compatible with a liberal education. The Sc.B. degree achieves greater depth in both computer science and economics by requiring more courses, and it offers students the opportunity to creatively integrate both disciplines through a design requirement. In addition to courses in economics, computer science, and applied mathematics, all concentrators must fulfill the Computer Science department's writing requirement by passing a course that involves significant expository writing. Students may choose the standard or professional track.
Computer Science - Economics Concentration Requirements
- List of requirements
- Honors website
Student Goals
Students in this concentration will:
- Recognize and analyze the interdependence between the elements of complex systems, especially ones involving human actors
- Understand concepts, tools, research methods, and key findings in several economics fields
- Grasp microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics
- Produce a culminating artifact such as a paper or software project at the intersection of computer science and economics
Tracks
- CS-Econ Professional Track
Graduating Class
| Class Year | Total Students | Honors Graduates |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 40 | 3 |
| 2022 | 49 | 4 |
| 2023 | 37 | 3 |
| 2024 | 40 | 3 |
| 2025 | 57 | 2 |
Alumni Pathways
Computer Science - Economics concentrators have gone on to careers in management and software engineering for video game companies and other start-ups.