Let’s say one’s goal was to get a PhD in economics from a well-reputed school (with a possible double major in math undergraduate). Which liberal arts college would put one on the best track for this? Williams, Wesleyan, Middlebury, etc?
In terms of scholarly citations by economics faculty, which can influence your own progression as an undergraduate, you are on the right track (“Economics Departments at Liberal Arts Colleges,” from IDEAS; available online):
- Williams
- Wellesley
- Middlebury
- Wesleyan
- Hamilton
Give strong attention to at least all colleges within the top 20. For strength in math, consider adding Hamilton, Bowdoin (15th by the above economics analysis) and Pomona (25th) to your nascent list. For general future PhD success, consider adding Macalester (14th), Oberlin (20th), Carleton (31st), Swarthmore, Grinnell and Reed.
Look for a school whose economics courses use substantial math. Minimum is single variable calculus, which is common, but not universal. Multivariable calculus or linear algebra listed as math prerequisites to intermediate economics courses would be even better.
But you need to take substantial math and statistics like real analysis, proof based linear algebra, and calculus based probability theory.