Economics majors typically take the following courses in the fall semester of their first year:

First-Year Experience Learning Community Courses

We will register you in these courses.

  1. Philosophy (PHIL 201)
  2. English Composition (ENG 101) OR Theology (TRS 201)

Why am I taking these classes?   Honors students take equivalent honors courses.

Major and Elective Courses

You will need to choose and register for these courses.

  1. Principles of Macroeconomics, Section 1 (ECON 101-01), if you meet the math requirement (see below). 

    Alternatively, if you have a GPA of 3.5 or higher, you can register for ECON 103 (the Honors section of ECON 101) under specific approval of Dr. Cruz

  2. Calculus I (MATH 111), or other math course depending on calculus placement (see below)

  3. A foreign language (see below)

Math placement

The study of economics requires a strong working knowledge of mathematics. Take the math placement exam to determine what math course is at the right level for you. To enroll in ECON 101, you must score a 1 or 2 on the placement exam. Those with a math placement score of 3 in a major which requires Math 111 should take Math 108 (or consider taking math 11 this summer).

Language placement

Your major requires you to complete the study of a foreign language through the intermediate level. Catholic University teaches the following languages that satisfy this requirement: Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Greek, Irish, Italian, Latin, and Spanish. If you are interested in learning a language not listed here, consult with your advisor.

If you have previously studied a foreign language and are interested in continuing with that same language, or if you can demonstrate fluency in a foreign language, you should complete the language placement exam.

About Your First Semester Courses

Economics majors will begin their studies with a look at the domestic and international economies as wholes in ECON 101.

If you are transferring credits for ECON 101, communicate with Dr. Cruz to determine what other Economics course you should take instead.

If you place out of the language requirement or are unable to take a language course because of course schedules, consider taking a liberal arts elective or a free elective course in a subject of your interest. Or, you may wish to begin study in a secondary subject area, perhaps for a minor or certificate

To learn more about the Economics major, consult the Economics Department’s website.

Know which courses you want? Get registered.