The Economics Program
Hiram College offers a major in economics through the economics, management, and accounting department. The economics major prepares students for successful careers in a variety of contemporary organizations–for profit, not for profit, and public–and for a wide variety of graduate programs. The major is specifically designed to develop a broad understanding of economic principles to ensure the adaptability and flexibility of our graduates. A student majoring in economics has an opportunity to concentrate major electives in areas such as economic development, environmental policy and management, finance, public administration, public policy.
The study of economics in the context of a small liberal arts college uniquely prepares individuals for leadership positions in the rapidly changing, complex, and global environment of contemporary organizational life. Through an emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, practical experience, independent research, and ethics, majors are ready for leadership positions in private, nonprofit, and governmental organizations. Small classes, emphasis on writing and speaking, close interactions with individuals different from ourselves, study abroad, and multiple leadership opportunities in campus organizations and on the playing field are some of the experiences proven to produce graduates with the opportunities, knowledge, and skills essential for success. Through the study of economic theory and its application to important societal issues—e.g. unemployment, inflation, economic development, international trade, environmental quality, economic inequality—economics majors at Hiram develop their critical thinking skills and an ability to identify solutions to emerging personal and societal concerns.
For students in Hiram's economics program, learning extends beyond the traditional classroom setting. The department strongly encourages students to broaden their perspective and understanding of the theories of economics by participating in overseas study programs and hands-on learning experiences that are closer to campus. Department faculty have led trips to Turkey, Tanzania, China, Bhutan, Greece, and Zimbabwe. Experiences closer to home are provided through internships and our active investment club. Through the college's entrepreneurship program, students have the opportunity to be matched with an off-campus mentor, develop an enterprise plan, and present it in the enterprise plan symposium and, perhaps, receive funding to put their ideas into practice.
All students majoring in economics are required to complete an independent research project during their senior year. Department faculty are also active advocates of students gaining internship experiences. Faculty members serve as liaisons between students and institutions to assist with the coordination of internship opportunities. In the past, students have interned with the United Way, the Cleveland Economic Development Committee, Siemens Corporation, and Fannie Mae, among others.
The rigor, depth, and diversity of Hiram's programs in economics help our students secure positions in the nation's top graduate programs and with some of the country's most well-respected organizations. Recent graduates have gone on to graduate programs in economics, finance, urban planning, hospital administration, law, and business administration. New alumni have earned positions with the U.S. Treasury, the Environmental Protection Agency, insurance companies, management consulting firms, and major banks.
See the College Catalog for specific course offerings.
- Principles of Microeconomics
- Principles of Macroeconomics
- Organizational Behavior (Management)
- Intermediate Microeconomics
- Intermediate Macroeconomics
- Research Methods and Design
- Senior Seminar
For full descriptions, see the Course Catalog.
For more information
If you have specific questions about the Economics program at Hiram College or if you would like more information, please contact: