Economics Has Three Main Objectives: To explain how individuals make rational choices between the available alternatives under a wide range of circumstances; to understand the nature of social institutions, such as firms and markets, within which such choices are made; and to analyze how individuals and institutions interact to generate outcomes for society as a whole. The breadth of these aims means that economists need to employ modes of thought and techniques drawn from many other disciplines, among them history, political science, sociology, mathematics and statistics, and philosophy. The knowledge generated in studying economics is ultimately applied to the practical issues which arise in the formulation of economic and social policy, industrial and financial management, and many other spheres of life.
The major in economics at UAB provides students with a solid grounding in economic analysis and quantitative decision making. These skills allow students to follow many career paths in business and government. Also, this program provides excellent training for students planning to pursue graduate work in economics, law, or business.
Areas of concentration
After completing a set of courses designed to introduce the basic tools of economics, economics majors select one of the following three areas of concentration: Economic Analysis & Policy, Philosophy & Political Economy, or Quantitative Methods. These areas of concentration round out the program of economics with an emphasis on specific topics and skills to prepare students to begin a rewarding career.