Department Overview
Economists try to understand the causes and effects of unemployment, inflation, poverty, economic growth, and globalization, among other issues. The analytical approach of the discipline gives economists the tools to solve problems in business, to critique and design public policy, and to understand ever-changing issues facing society.
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The economics department at Oberlin College is located in Rice Hall. (shown above with its original top) Photo courtesy of Oberlin Archives.
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If mathematical modeling and data analysis do not daunt you, and deepening your understanding of the world interests you, economics is for you. As an economics student, you will benefit from small classes, hands-on learning, and exceptional faculty engaged in teaching, research, consulting, and policy-making. You will acquire solid skills for research, critical thinking, and problem solving including being able to apply mathematical modeling and data analysis to significant social issues.
Our graduates pursue careers in academia, business, and the public sectors. Most of our students go to graduate programs in economics, law, public policy, and finance but they are not limited to those fields. Economics majors have advanced degrees in such fields as international relations, demography, education, history, politics, medicine, and mathematics. Our students find that an economics degree is solid preparation for a wide variety of professional interests. Recent graduates have attended top schools such as the University of Chicago, Harvard University, Yale University, University of California, Columbia University, and the University of Wisconsin.
Curriculum Overview
We offer courses in economic theory, courses that apply economic theory to analyze such topics as labor markets, globalization and international trade, finance, environmental policy, public finance, health care, the banking system, and economic development as well as courses on statistical methodology and data analysis. Advanced courses and seminars prepare you to evaluate complex economic problems, conduct economic research, study policy measures, and develop strategies for problem solving. Complementary courses in mathematics are available to enhance your preparation for graduate work in economics, public policy, or business.
Economics majors who distinguish themselves through coursework and academic standing are eligible for the yearlong Honors Program. The program entails doing original economics research, a comprehensive examination, and an oral evaluation by a prominent economist.
Our Social Science Data Lab has modern computers and the latest software for data analysis. Visit the lab to conduct substantive online research, collect data, or exmine the growing body of economics research available online.
Oberlin students who have completed Principles of Economics may apply for the Oberlin-in-Europe/Euro Summer School. This intensive, six-week multicultural program lets you experience social, cultural, business, and political climates of Europe while onsite in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. Oberlin offers fully accredited courses taught in English.
In addition, majors are eligible to work as Albert Rees research assistants for permanent and visiting faculty members in the economics department. Juniors or seniors may apply for the winter term Albert Rees Policy Fellowship, established at Oberlin in 1996 to honor the noted labor economist.
