BA in Economics and Mathematics

Boston University

Mathematics and statistics are key tools in many aspects of economics. The joint major in Economics & Mathematics aims to provide foundational skills in both subjects while focusing course selection on both subjects’ common goals. The major is appropriate for economics students with interest in the mathematical techniques and for mathematics students interested in applications in economics. The major provides credentials in both subjects, leaving room for elective units for students with other interests. The degree program’s required courses include advanced courses in mathematics in addition to higher-level economic theory and econometrics courses.Learning OutcomesDevelop a systematic understanding of the theoretical and mathematical structure of economic models, and develop the capacity to engage in the economic modeling of real-world events and economic policy. To this effect, advanced work in mathematics, probability, and statistics will be undertaken in order to correctly model the stochastic structure within which choices are often made and policy must correspondingly be evaluated.Demonstrate focused expertise in one or more areas of economics.Locate the necessary data to analyze and evaluate world events, and analyze data using appropriate econometric methods.Demonstrate an understanding of optimization theory, particularly constrained optimization techniques, and be able to apply these methods to both microeconomic analysis (price theory) and macroeconomic analysis. The tools of calculus and linear algebra, in addition to statistical decisionmaking methods, will be covered.

College of Arts and Sciences