Economics

A survey of selected principles of macro- and microeconomics. This course is designed to acquaint non-majors with the tenets of economics as they apply to current events, and to define the role of economics in the social sciences.

Price Theory is the basis for economic decision-making by the individual and by the firm. The tools of this course are used to predict and explain the behavior of these two economic entities under various market conditions.

This course examines the determination of national income, employment, output, and price levels in the aggregate economy. The role played by fiscal and monetary policies is a critical component of the course.

As the title indicates, this course deals with mathematical solutions to various types of problems encountered in economics and business. Economic theory assumes that firms maximize profits and minimize costs, and that consumers maximize utility. Thus, optimization techniques will be the first topic we will examine. Since most decisions are made with imperfect knowledge, an understanding and appreciation of probability is necessary; this will be the second topic covered in the course. Forecasting and regression techniques are the third subject examined by this course, followed by linear programming, project scheduling, and inventory management.

This course provides an introduction to the various aspects of the economics of education. It applies economic principles to analyze primary, secondary, and post-secondary education and discusses the implications for educational policy. Topics include cost-benefit analysis of education, the signaling vs. human capital debate, race and gender issues in education, education production functions, and financing education at all levels. In addition, the course will investigate school choice, voucher, teacher quality and merit pay.

A study of the role of money and of monetary and financial institutions with an emphasis on the history, structure, and function of the banking system. Monetary theory and policy are examined in relation to their influence on the macroeconomy.

A survey of the importance of trade in the world economy, the mechanism of international payments, and the effect of current import-export practices and tariffs on the economy of the United States.

A study of the requirements for economic progress and development in the emerging nations of the world. This is an interdisciplinary approach to the economic, political, and sociological factors involved in developing the economies of low per capita income countries.

An examination of the role of government in the private economy. The course examines how government raises revenues, makes expenditures, and how government involvement affects resource allocation, prices, and quantities. Other topics may include public choice and specific programs of government, e.g., housing subsidies, welfare programs, military expenditures, etc.

This course examines such concepts as labor demand and labor supply, labor market structure and wage determination; with analysis supplemented by policy applications, union institutions, collective bargaining and the economic impact of unions will also be studied.

A study of the economic development of the United States from the colonial period to the present. The interrelated changes in economic performance, technology, institutions, and governmental policy will be emphasized. Such topics as early development, transportation, population growth, technological change, financial development, and the role of government will be covered.

Each offering covers a special topic in economics. See course schedule for specific topics.