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Catalog 2004-2005
Economics (BA)
School of Social Science and Human Services

Requirements of the Major
Requirements of the Minor

Career Paths
Convener: Teresa Hutchins
Advisors: Philip McLewin
Behzad Yaghmaian

(disclaimer below)



About the Major

There is practically no dimension of human activity that remains unaffected by economic forces. As a field of study, economics is central to our lives as individual consumers and producers and more broadly as informed, articulate, and responsible members of a community. The Economics major provides students with an understanding of how societies are organized so as to provide for the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. Particular attention is given to the United States economy and its connections to the globalization of economic relations in the post World War II eras. Students gain an understanding of such important economic topics as inflation and recession, money and banking; the relationship between government and business, international economics and trade; the economics of class, race, and gender; and a comparative analysis of other economic systems. Economics is a rigorous and intellectually demanding field of study combining practical knowledge with historical understanding, analytical techniques with philosophical inquiry, and economic theory with government and corporate policy. Diversity of opinion is emphasized through the study of different ideas and schools of thought.

Students interested in majoring in Economics can enroll in either of two Schools: Administration and Business or Social Science and Human Services. Both lead to a Bachelor of Arts degree.

The major offered in Social Science and Human Services emphasizes social and public policy, while the major in the School of Administration and Business provides important linkages to practical business techniques and knowledge.

Graduates may seek careers in banking, economics research, or a variety of entry-level positions in business and government. They may also pursue graduate work in economics, business, and law. Those students interested in graduate work in Economics are strongly urged to take Calculus.

Data collected by the College Alumni Association show that Ramapo graduates do very well. Approximately 45 percent hold executive or administrative positions, and about one-third are in professional specialties including employment with community organizations. Both of these percentages are significantly above the national average for Economics graduates.

A group of four economists, with expertise in a wide range of specializations within the discipline, comprise the full-time faculty in the economics program. Two are based in the School of Administration and Business, and two are members of the Social Science and Human Services faculty.



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