Why Study Economics?
At McMaster University, our Economics program allows students to explore a variety of courses, areas of focus, and degree programs.
Economics is a fascinating field of study with many sub-fields, as demonstrated by our extensive list of undergraduate courses. How will new international trade agreements affect jobs and wealth? Does cutting business taxes help spur growth? What is the optimal price to charge for a specific product? Examining these important questions are part of studying Economics at McMaster University.
Graduates of the Faculty of Social Sciences are among the most employable in Ontario based on data from the Council of Ontario Universities. *Nearly 90 per cent of our graduates are employed within six months of graduation. Economists approach problems in a logical, rigorous way. Students develop sophisticated problem solving, numeracy, research, communication and decision-making skills.
About First Year
Students entering the Faculty of Social Sciences in their first year can take a general program, or direct entry into Economics I. The direct entry program allows for students to explore other subjects in the Social Sciences and beyond. At the end of first year, students can then pick your Economics path.
What I like about Social Science is the balance of industry-specific technical know-how with career-critical soft skills: written and verbal communications, research and dissemination, time and conflict management, etc.
Program Overview
Program Type:
Course-based
Program Options:
Full-time, Part-time
Length:
Honours BA programs: 4 years
BA programs: 3 years
Typical Entry:
September
For More Information:
Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Economics, Undergraduate Program
KTH 426
Required Credential:
Honours Bachelors of Arts in Economics:
- Completion of any Level 1 program with a Grade Point Average of 5.0 (C) including an average of at least 5.0 (C) in ECON 1B03/1BX3 and 1BA3/1BB3
Honours Economics: Specialist Option:
- Completion of any Level 1 program with a Grade Point Average of 5.0 (C) including an average of at least 5.0 (C) in ECON 1B03/1BX3 and 1BA3/1BB3
Combined Honours in Economics and Another Subject:
- Completion of any Level 1 program with a Grade Point Average of 5.0 (C) including an average of at least 5.0 (C) in ECON 1B03/1BX3 and 1BA3/1BB3. Satisfaction of admission requirements for the Honours program in the other B.A. subject.
Honours Economics and Computer Science:
- Completion of any Level 1 program with a Grade Point Average of 5.0 (C), including an average of 5.0 (C) in ECON 1B03/1BX3 and 1BA3/1BB3, and a weighted average of at least 5.0 in ECON 1BX3/1B03, 1BA3/1BB3, COMPSCI 1MD3, 1JC3, 1XC3 and 1DM3; MATH 1A03, 1AA3, and 1B03. MATH 1B03 may be postponed until Level 2.
Honours Economics and Mathematics:
- Completion of any Level I program with a Grade Point Average of at least 5.0 including MATH 1A03 (or 1X03), an average of at least 5.0 in ECON 1B03/1BX3 and 1BB3/1BA3 and a grade of at least C+ in each of MATH 1AA3 (or 1XX3) and 1B03.
Bachelor of Arts in Economics:
- Completion of any level 1 program with a Grade Point Average of 3.5 (C-) including an average of 4.0 (C-)
A minor consists of at least 24 units of course work (normally with no more than six units from Level I). Specific course requirements for minors are set out in the program description in the Undergraduate Calendar.
Required Credential:
Enrolment in an Honours program in another discipline.
Program Type:
Course based
Program Options:
Full-time, Part-time
Current Deadline:
April
Important dates and deadlines to mark in your calendars!
- Sessional dates
- Enrollment dates
- Convocation
- Aid & Awards
- Tuition & Fees
Please visit the Office of the Registrar website for more information.
Academic Counseling
The Department of Economics provides students with the information and guidance they need to succeed in their academic careers. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your economics courses or other undergraduate inquiries, please contact econug@mcmaster.ca.
Academic Advising
The Academic Advising office is run through the Office of the Associate Dean. The primary goal of the Advising Office is to provide all Social Sciences undergraduate students with the information and guidance they need to succeed in their academic careers.
Advisors can help you make the right academic decisions by explaining policies and regulations as well as presenting different options and supports available in your studies.
An academic advisor can assist you with:
- Course requirements, dropping and adding courses
- Program selection, application and changes
- Studying abroad
- Transfer credits
- Petitions for missed term work, deferred examinations and special consideration
- Appeals procedures
- Referral to other campus services
The Faculty of Social Sciences offers additional advising and support for students. Book an appointment to speak with an Academic Advisor.
Programs (by Degree) and Minors
The below links will take you to the Academic Calendar for more information.
Program Information
Undergraduate Courses & Course Outlines
View your undergraduate courses and course outlines to find assignment due dates, assessments and more.
Study Abroad
Through the McMaster Exchange Program, you can gain a global perspective while earning credits and staying on track to meet your goals.
Economics Program Course Calendar
The Economics course calendar is an essential resource for choosing your courses.
Awards & Scholarships
Hundreds of awards and scholarships are available to McMaster students. Discover awards and find out how to apply.
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