Economics
“Economics is a study of humankind in the ordinary business of life; it examines that part of individual and social action which is most closely connected with the attainment and with the use of the material requisites of well-being. Thus it is on the one side a study of wealth; and on the other, and more important side, a part of the study of humanity.” – Alfred Marshall, Principles of Economics
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Economics is the study of how people and organizations make decisions, how they interact with each other, and how institutions and policies can be designed to improve people’s lives. Economists strive to understand the world around them both as it is and as it ought to be.
The economics major serves as excellent preparation for careers in a wide variety of fields, including economic analysis, banking, accounting, consulting, health administration, finance, business, teaching, and international affairs. The economics major also provides a solid foundation for students wishing to pursue graduate studies in economics, public policy, business, and law.
Department and Alumni News:
Experts at St. Olaf: Holiday Spending
A summer of career preparation
St. Olaf awards Founders Medal to O. Jay ’58 and Patricia Tomson ’59
St. Olaf graduate earns Rotary Global Grant Scholarship
Oles in the News: Professor weighs in on whether AI is contributing to the national GDP
Oles in the News: Economics professor featured in the ‘Star Tribune’
Experts at St. Olaf: Understanding the housing market
