Economics

Overview

Economics majors at Saint Joseph’s University will study how economic reasoning is used to determine how society can effectively meet its human and material needs. By analyzing buyer and seller behavior in various markets, students will be able to think like an economist and how they view the world in terms of problem-solving and decision making.

What Is an Economics Major?

We live in a world where data seems to be limitless. Everything we do, the decisions we make, the places we visit, the purchases we make (and those we don’t), are likely part of a massive data set. However, those who are trained to extract useful information from the data are not numerous. The economics coursework at Saint Joseph's University is not just intended for you to learn the way economists view the world, but also to understand how to use their techniques for analyzing problems using real-world data. The economics department strives to produce graduates who will intelligently participate in public and private decision-making in which economic considerations are involved.

An Interdisciplinary Major

The economics department at Saint Joseph's University has always acknowledged that the world is becoming increasingly interdisciplinary. For that reason, the economics major offers great flexibility in course selection, so students have exceptional opportunities to pursue other interests in related disciplines.

Ways to Study Economics

You can pursue a major in economics or an economics minor if you are majoring in another discipline.

What Can I Do with A Degree in Economics?

The training in data analysis is among the reasons why economists stand out in the job market and why the career opportunities for economists are so great, rewarding and diverse. They can run the gamut from government jobs to employment in entertainment, sports and recreation.

Economics majors seeking post-graduate study have pursued law school and master’s degrees in economics and business. Economics majors have also secured employment in business, nonprofits, international organizations, government agencies and more.

How Will Saint Joseph’s University Prepare Me for a Career in Economics?

Students preparing for fulfilling careers in economics are encouraged to join Saint Joseph’s University’s Economic Society which offers opportunities to engage in economic debate through student and faculty-led presentations, lecturers, panel discussions, publications, films and more. Students who are involved in the Economic Society are also invited to attend conferences and apply for enriching internships, fellowships and competitive post-graduate positions.

Course Catalog Information

History

The history program at Saint Joseph’s University encourages students to become researchers, critical thinkers, clear writers and historically aware global citizens. Through coursework, students develop an understanding of the political, cultural and institutional advances that have shaped the world.

Political Science

The political science major at Saint Joseph’s University offers the opportunity to examine politics, government and the political process. This program is ideal for those interested in the study of power, behavior, compromise and relationships between political figures in a variety of different contexts.

Sociology

The Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice at Saint Joseph’s University provides students with opportunities to analyze and assess human behavior and its impact on society. The sociology department is comprised of expert teachers and active researchers working to understand society and make positive, practical applications of their findings. Sociology majors go on to work in government, law, public service, criminology, research and nonprofit organizations.