I've been looking at Cornell University as a possible choice for pursuing an economics major. Can somebody give me a general rundown of their program? I'm interested in knowing more about the curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, and how well it prepares students for grad school or careers.
Cornell University offers an excellent economics major through its College of Arts and Sciences. The program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in economic theory, empirical analysis, and policy evaluation, ultimately preparing them for various career paths or further education in graduate programs.
Curriculum: The economics major at Cornell consists of a balanced mix of core courses, electives, and seminar courses. The core courses include introductory courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics, as well as intermediate courses in both areas. Students also take econometrics to develop their quantitative and empirical analysis skills. For electives, students can choose from a wide array of specialized courses in areas such as international economics, labor economics, public economics, industrial organization, environmental economics, development economics, and economic history.
Faculty: Cornell's economics professors are renowned scholars and researchers in their respective fields, who contribute valuable insights to contemporary economic issues. Many of them have received prestigious awards, grants, and fellowships and frequently publish in top economics journals. They are approachable and supportive of students, engaging them in research projects and advising them throughout their academic journey.
Research Opportunities: The economics department at Cornell encourages undergraduate students to get involved in research projects through a variety of channels. Students can work as research assistants for faculty members, participate in independent study or honors programs, or create their own research projects with the guidance of an academic advisor.
Grad School and Career Preparation: The economics major at Cornell prepares students well for both careers and graduate school. Many graduates go on to secure jobs in sectors such as finance, consulting, government, non-profit organizations, and academia. For those wishing to pursue a master's or Ph.D. in economics or a related field, Cornell's rigorous coursework and research opportunities prepare students to excel in top graduate programs. Moreover, the department offers resources such as career advising, networking events, and skill development workshops to aid students in their pursuit of a successful career or further education.
In summary, Cornell's economics major offers students a strong grounding in economic theory and empirical analysis, coupled with an extensive range of electives to cater to individual interests. With a supportive faculty and numerous research opportunities, it provides excellent preparation for both graduate school and various career paths in the field of economics.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.