Economics
Welcome to the Department of Economics
The Economics Department is a collaborative and scholarly community where you’ll learn to apply analytical tools to understand economic behavior.
You'll gain in-demand skills to solve real-world problems and shape the global economy. The economy impacts every aspect of our lives, and we’re here to empower you with economic insights to navigate your future and improve well-being. Through our programs, you’ll explore theoretical frameworks and hands-on tools that reveal how markets work and influence the world around you.
Questions? Contact Us.
College of Business
Shaw-Smyser 413
About the Economics Department
You will learn economic principles and models that can help you to understand people, markets, businesses, and governments, and how to respond to the opportunities and challenges that can happen when things change.
Economic Outlook Conference
Attend the Annual Economic Outlook Conference
Message from the Chair
Hear from the Economics Department Chair, Tennecia Dacass, on what the department offers and what makes it unique.
CWU Student Price Index (SPI) Project
From tuition to groceries to gas, we track the prices that shape student life at CWU.
Explore our Degrees
Discover a range of programs designed to inspire creativity, build expertise, and prepare you for a successful career in Economics.
Student Clubs
Economics Assocation
The Economics Association is a student-led organization centered on learning and professional growth. The club presents economic concepts in a clear and accessible way for both non-majors and experienced students, using games and presentations. In addition, the club invites industry professionals to connect members with internship opportunities. Join us on Wednesdays at 4:00 PM in Shaw-Smyser 132.
The Business Analytics & AI Club
The Business Analytics & AI Club is a student-led organization focused on learning, collaboration, and practical problem-solving. The club provides a welcoming space for students interested in business analytics, data, and AI to explore how these tools are used in everyday business decisions. Students from other College of Business majors and IT are encouraged to participate. Join us on Thursdays from 6:30–7:30 PM in Samuelson 251.
Scholarship Opportunities
Hensler-Moore Endowment in Economics
- This scholarship is available to full-time junior and senior economics majors, providing valuable assistance as you pursue your goals.
Wolfgang and Joyce Franz Endowment
- This scholarship recognizes full-time economics students, giving special consideration to those with the highest GPA.
Harold and Marjorie Williams Scholarship
- Honoring outstanding scholastic achievement, this award is presented to the graduating business administration student with the highest GPA.
Accreditation
Central Washington University College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). You’ll experience the benefits of this accreditation firsthand, from the exceptional education you’ll receive as a student to the lasting value your CWU Business degree will bring to your career.
Commitment to a Sustainable World
Central Washington University is committed to integrating sustainability across academics, operations, and campus life. Many CWU programs embed sustainability-related concepts, skills, and applied learning that prepare students to think critically about their impact on the world around them.
CWU is nationally recognized for this work through the AASHE STARS Gold rating, reflecting our dedication to transparency, environmental stewardship, and continuous improvement.
Sustainability courses include:
- ECON 101 Economic Issues
- ECON 201 Principles of Economics Micro
- ECON 202 Principles of Economics Macro
- ECON 355 Economics of Labor
- ECON 401 Intermediate Microeconomics Analysis
- ECON 462 Environmental and Resource Economics
- ECON 463 Energy Economics
Learn more about CWU’s sustainability efforts through the Office of Sustainability, explore CWU’s national sustainability recognition, or view the full AASHE STARS report.