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Honours Economics

If you’re interested in delving deeper into the realm of economics, the Honours Economics program is tailored for you. This comprehensive four-level program moves beyond the basics, presenting you with the opportunity to engage with more advanced economic concepts.

The honours program serves as a solid foundation if you’re contemplating future studies in applied economics, economic policy, business, law, public administration, urban planning, or other esteemed professional fields. Envision yourself well-prepared for a career where you could be shaping pivotal decisions in the corporate sphere or the public sector.

Picture this trajectory: embarking with an honours economics degree and potentially progressing to attain an MBA or MPA degree. Most advanced programs seek candidates with an Honours BA, although stringent requirements regarding advanced courses in economic theory tend to be more flexible. It’s worth noting that specific admission prerequisites vary significantly across different programs and universities.

Exciting prospects await as you rise to the challenge and embark on a journey to explore the multifaceted and ever-evolving realm of economics!

Did you know that you can combine Honours degrees?

A combined honours degree provides a unique and enriched academic experience, allowing students to pursue two disciplines simultaneously. This interdisciplinary approach enhances critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability skills, creating well-rounded graduates with expertise in multiple fields, providing you with a competitive edge in the job market.

If you have specific questions or need more information about combining honours degrees, feel free to ask!

Program Details

Typical Entry Term

Fall (September)

Program Options

Full-time or Part-time

Program Length

Three years (accelerated), Four years (full-time) or five years (full-time with co-op option)

Program Format

Course-based

Expandable List

Students start in the Social Sciences Level 1 program or Economics 1 program and apply to the Honours BA in Economics (single or combined major) at the end of their first year. Students must complete the requirements of a Level 1 program including two Level 1 Economics courses.

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 and 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 and 1BB3.
  • Satisfaction of admission requirements for the Honours program in the other BA 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 and 1BB3, and a weighted average of at least 5.0 in ECON 1B03, 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 and 1BB3 and a grade of at least C+ in each of MATH 1AA3 (or 1XX3) and 1B03.

 

Learn more about Level II Selection

The Academic Calendar lists course requirements and minimum grade requirements for entry to and continuance in the BA Economics.

View the Academic Calendar

Sample Courses By Year (Not All Required)

Level I Courses

  • ECON 1B03: Introductory Microeconomics
  • ECON 1ME3: Introduction to Mathematical Economics
  • ECON 1BB3: Introductory Macroeconomics

Level II Courses

  • ECON 2N03: Public Policy Toward Business
  • ECON 2P03: Economics of Professional Sports
  • ECON 2Q03: Economics of Bad Behaviour

Level III Courses

  • ECON 3G03: Introduction to Advanced Economic Theory
  • ECON 3EE3: Econometrics I
  • ECON 3E03: Applied Econometrics

Level IV Courses

  • ECON 4AA3: Economic Specialist Seminar
  • ECON 4FF3: Research Methods in Economics
  • ECON 4G03: Econometrics II

Honours BA in Economics graduates enjoy success beyond the classroom

Based on aggregated Social Sciences data from the Ontario University Graduate Survey from 2017-2021.

70% Employed in 6 months
12% Graduates pursuing additional schooling

Customize Your Studies

Our flexible degrees let you study your way.

Study Abroad STUDY ABROAD

Take your studies beyond Canada. McMaster has exchange agreements with 100+ universities.

Internships Learn More

Apply to an internship and begin building your professional network.

Student Research Learn More

Apply for an Undergraduate Student Research Award and get paid to conduct research.

Minors View Minors

Add a minor to your studies to differentiate yourself in the workplace.

Questions about the Honours BA in Economics ?

Contact Us

Economics Undergraduate Administrative Assistant
Enrolment, course permissions, general inquiries
Email: econug@mcmaster.ca

Academic Advising Office
Goals, program changes, academic support
Email: socscfac@mcmaster.ca
Phone: (905) 525-9140 ext. 23772

Office Location

Department of Economics
Kenneth Taylor Hall (KTH), 426
1280 Main Street West
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada L8S 4M4

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Office Hours

Monday to Friday
9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Closed for lunch 12:00 PM–1:00 PM