Economics

An examination of the macroeconomic theories, problems, and policies of the U.S. economy. Topics include supply and demand, a description of the main sectors of the economy, and the role of government in stabilizing the economy with monetary and fiscal policies.
(Normally offered each semester.)

An examination of the microeconomic theories, problems, and policies of the U.S. economy. Topics include the theory of the firm, market structures, and current economic issues such as income distribution, antitrust policy, poverty, the farm problem, and international trade.
Prerequisite(s): ECON 1530 Macroeconomic Principles strongly recommended.
(Normally offered each semester.)

A study of the mechanisms by which resources are allocated in a market economy, the effects of imperfect competition upon resource allocation, and the pricing and employment of inputs.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C-" or better in ECON 1540 Microeconomic Principles
(Normally offered each fall semester.)

A study of the concepts and measurement of national income, including an analysis of the forces determining the level of national income and employment, the price level, and the rate of economic growth.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C-" or better in ECON 1530 Macroeconomic Principles.
(Normally offered each spring semester.)

An introduction to computational problem-solving using Python. Hands-on labs are used to motivate basic programming concepts, including basic data types and structures, functions, conditionals, and loops. Additional topics may include building and scraping HTML webpages. The course is recommended for all who wish to explore data science and/or computer science.

Prerequisite(s): Math ACT score of at least 21 or permission of instructor.

A study of managing, manipulating, and summarizing data using Excel and SQL. Topics in Excel include, but are not limited to: functions, filters, charts and visualizations, pivot tables, and macros. Topics in SQL include, but are not limited to: queries, joins, and basic database management.

This course examines the development and implementation of public policy. We will consider the actors, institutions, and rules that create and influence the policy making process and the consequences these choices produce. There are many puzzles this course attempts to address, including why some laws pass and others fail, why some policy ideas move more quickly than others, and why some strategies for causing policy change are successful. We will learn methods for evaluating public policy and the ways citizens can work within, and outside of, government to affect change.