Every economics major follows one of five courses of study (or "concentrations"): General Economics, for those who desire a broad overview of economic processes and thought; Environmental Economics, for those who wish to investigate economic issues and policies in relation to the environment and natural resources; International Economics, for those who wish to explore the international dimensions of economies in relation to political developments; Monetary Economics and Finance, for those who wish to better understand the monetary and financial aspects of the economy; and Economics with Teacher Licensure, for those who seek careers in secondary education. Students who wish to complement their studies in another department with a solid grounding in economics may find the Minor in Economics attractive.  For more information on any of these options, ask any economics instructor, see the UNCA Catalog, or visit any of the links above.

Regardless of the course of study, the major is designed to enable students to: (1) find and describe information about basic economic ideas, institutions and phenomena; (2) explain the use of basic economic ideas and tools, and identify applications of them; (3) analyze in depth a social, governmental, or organizational issue or idea, and alternative means of addressing it; (4) discuss the breadth of the economics discipline, its boundaries and where its boundaries blur with those of related disciplines; and (5) relate basic economic ideas to their own lives. Students are also encouraged to develop their interests and abilities beyond the classroom through co-curricular activities and service.

In support of these objectives the Department provides a wide array of courses.  These courses are described in the economics catalog.  In addition we sponsor an Economics Club, for social, educational, service and career development purposes, and provide the opportunity to do internships for academic credit (please see the economics catalog for details).

Though our students have discovered many successful paths to their degrees, some are smoother than others.  For a description of the smoothest path, please see an economics faculty member. No matter which path is taken, the climax of the journey for many students is their senior research project.

We recognize the academic excellence of our students through memberships in the national honorary society for economics (Omicron Delta Epsilon), scholarships and awards. We recognize excellence in service by an award given annually. Academic and service awards are presented every spring at the Student Awards Night hosted by Student Affairs.  Please see the scholarships and awards page for details.

Economics Department
159 Karpen Hall CPO # 2110   One University Heights   Asheville, NC 28804
Phone: 828-251-6550   FAX: 828-251-6572

Copyright © 2001-2007 [Chris Bell (email), Economics Department, UNC Asheville].
All rights reserved.  Revised: April 03, 2007