The Economics Department provides students with the tools to analyze a variety of situations and problems, offering a major and minor in the field. They gain an understanding of past and current events, and have the perspective to apply economic reasoning to future problems. In the process, students become familiar with the methods and institutions humankind has developed to deal with scarcity - from the level of individual consumers and firms to the level of the global economy. Providing students with a solid background in economics helps them become thoughtful citizens who are prepared for advanced study or employment in the field. Many Augustana economics majors pursue another major or minor -- typically, business administration or accounting. Some students find it useful to combine the economics major with the study of mathematics, languages, natural science or other social sciences. All full-time economics faculty have earned PhDs from the University of Iowa, University of Illinois or the University of Indiana. Faculty have research experience in economic history and development economics. Senior-level courses are taught in these fields, as sort of a culminating use of all the theory and concepts from introductory and intermediate courses. Other strong course offerings are in the areas of international trade and international finance.

-