Economics, B.A.

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Economics is the study of decision making under scarcity and it permeates almost every facet of political, commercial, industrial and even familial behavior in society. Do financial markets reflect rational behavior? Will Google, OpenAI, and Tesla displace NBC, GE, and Toyota? How has the birth control pill affected women’s education and labor market decisions? Does corruption grease or sand the wheels of economic development? These are just a few examples of the wide range of questions discussed in economics classes at Washington and Lee.

Qualified students who may be interested in writing an honors thesis should consult the department website about the requirements.

Required Courses

Complete all courses in the following list:

Economics 300-Level

Choose two additional economics courses at the 300-level. One instance may be ECON 423 or ECON 493 .

Economics Electives

Choose four additional courses in economics numbered above ECON 211 . A maximum of nine credits from supervised study abroad and/or special topics courses may apply toward major requirements.

Mathematics

Complete the below course.

MATH 101 - Calculus I (or equivalent)

Politics, Computer Science, or Mathematics

Choose two additional courses in politics, computer science, or mathematics (for which MATH 101 is a prerequisite).

Grade Point Average

A 2.00 GPA is required in all coursework for the major.

Total Major Requirements 45 Credits

There are a total of 45 credits required for this major; 36 of these credits are required to be economics courses.