About the Major
There is practically no dimension of human activity that remains
unaffected by economic forces. As a field of study, economics
is central to our lives as individual consumers and producers
and more broadly as informed, articulate, and responsible members
of a community. The Economics major provides students with an
understanding of how societies are organized so as to provide
for the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and
services. Particular attention is given to the United States
economy and its connections to the globalization of economic
relations in the post World War II eras. Students gain an understanding
of such important economic topics as inflation and recession,
money and banking; the relationship between government and business,
international economics and trade; the economics of class, race,
and gender; and a comparative analysis of other economic systems.
Economics is a rigorous and intellectually demanding field of
study combining practical knowledge with historical understanding,
analytical techniques with philosophical inquiry, and economic
theory with government and corporate policy. Diversity of opinion
is emphasized through the study of different ideas and schools
of thought.
Students interested in majoring in Economics can enroll in either
of two Schools: Administration and Business or Social Science
and Human Services. Both lead to a Bachelor of Arts degree.
The major offered in Social Science and Human Services emphasizes
social and public policy, while the major in the School of Administration
and Business provides important linkages to practical business
techniques and knowledge.
Graduates may seek careers in banking, economics research, or
a variety of entry-level positions in business and government.
They may also pursue graduate work in economics, business, and
law. Those students interested in graduate work in Economics
are strongly urged to take Calculus.
Data collected by the College Alumni Association show that Ramapo
graduates do very well. Approximately 45 percent hold executive
or administrative positions, and about one-third are in professional
specialties including employment with community organizations.
Both of these percentages are significantly above the national
average for Economics graduates.
A group of four economists, with expertise in a wide range of
specializations within the discipline, comprise the full-time
faculty in the economics program. Two are based in the School
of Administration and Business, and two are members of the
Social Science and Human Services
faculty. |
