The Honors concentration in Economics provides students with the opportunity to conduct a research project. The program is designed for students who have shown academic excellence in previous undergraduate courses and evidence of outstanding ability in economics. Students applying for an Honors concentration in Economics usually have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.5, with mostly “A’s” in economics courses. Application and admittance to the honors concentration usually occur in the first term of junior year.

Honors concentrators must complete all requirements for the regular concentration in economics. No additional credits are required. However, honors concentrators must include ECON 405 (or Stat 426) and ECON 406 in their concentration plan

Honors concentrators must complete an honors thesis, which may be an extension of concentration coursework. The thesis is usually original work completed under the direction of a faculty adviser and the Director of Honors. It is strongly recommended that Honors concentrators elect a section of ECON 495 (Seminar in Economics) during the winter term of their junior year. ECON 495 stresses research techniques in economics and allows students an opportunity to begin their research in a structured environment. Honors concentrators will be given priority for admission to ECON 495. Honors concentrators can also elect ECON 498 (Honors Independent Research) in order to complete the honors thesis during the senior year. ECON 495 and ECON 498 may count as 6 credits of upper-level economics electives in the concentration plan.