College of Business
General Economics
Bachelor of Science | Major
Economics, BS—General Economics Specialization
Economics is the study of decision-making. As a student in the General Economics Specialization, you will learn to think creatively and deeply about important economic issues facing the world today.
You will apply a variety of perspectives to issues including economic efficiency, economic growth, international trade, public policy, environment, and social justice. In addition to preparation for business and government agency employment, an economics major is excellent preparation for law school, Master of Business Administration programs, and graduate programs in economics, agricultural economics, and natural resource management. Positions of responsibility in today’s world are usually held by individuals who have the capacity to analyze complex problems and make intelligent decisions. Getting your degree in Economics will help you develop these skills and analyze real-world problems and opportunities to solve them. With an education in Economics, a multitude of opportunities open for you.
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Economics Department
Shaw-Smyser 413
At the Center of a Better Future
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Economics and Business Analytics Website
Foundation Core Courses
- BUS 221 - Introductory Business Statistics OR MATH 211 - Statistical Concepts and Methods
- ECON 130 - Foundations for Business Analytics OR MATH 130 - Finite Mathematics
- ECON 201 - Principles of Economics Micro
- ECON 202 - Principles of Economics Macro
- MATH 153 - Pre-Calculus Mathematics I
- MATH 154 - Pre-Calculus Mathematics II
- MATH 170 - Intuitive Calculus
- MATH 172 - Calculus I
- MATH 173 - Calculus II
General Economics Specialization
This specialization is recommended for students desiring the traditional Economics major. Highly recommended supporting courses: MATH 172 and MATH 173.
Required Courses
- BUS 301 - Contemporary Approaches to Personal and Professional Development OR ECON 301 - Professional Career Development
- ECON 401 - Intermediate Microeconomic Analysis
- ECON 402 - Intermediate Macroeconomic Analysis
- BUAN 406 - Business Analytics
- ECON 424 - Introduction to Econometrics
- ECON 426 - Economic Research
Department-Approved Electives
Economics Research
Classes like ECON 426 “Economic Research,” involve practical assignments and projects that allow you to apply research techniques to real-world economic problems. This hands-on experience is invaluable for developing research skills and gaining confidence.
Looking Ahead
In addition to preparation for business and government agency employment, an economics major is an excellent preparation for law schools and graduate programs in economics, agricultural economics, and natural resource management.
Successful Fields
Economics graduates from CWU pursue careers in high-impact roles such as economist, business analyst, management consultant, data analyst, policy analyst, and researcher—applying analytical skills and economic insight across industries.
Trusted Name
Economics courses have been taught at CWU for at least a century. Our Department of Economics was formed in 1947-1948 and was a part of the College of Arts and Sciences, Social Science Division.
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Regional Salaries
Average salaries for economists in the Seattle area are reported at $139,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Success
Our graduates have gone on to work at companies in all sectors including Starbucks, Nike, Nordstrom, Microsoft, Amazon and Google.
and Only
Our program is one of the only STEM-designated economics undergraduate programs in the state.
Economics at CWU: A Launchpad for What Comes Next
Kaleb Javier arrived at CWU focused on competing in cross-country, but one economics class opened the door to an entirely new academic path. His foundation at CWU propelled him into a competitive research fellowship at Stanford and now a PhD program in Environmental Economics at UC Berkeley—proof of how far curiosity and opportunity can take you at CWU. Read his story.
Accreditation
CWU’s College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Only 5% of business schools globally earn this designation.
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.