<p>I'm a rising sophomore at Emory, and I find myself (relatively) interested in Econ. They offer an Econ-Math joint major, too. What are the differences between the joint major and straight-up Econ (in terms of career opportunities, grad school, etc.)?</p>
<p>If you want to continue into graduate school, definitely choose the math-econ major. From what I understand, you need a fairly substantial amount of math preparation to even be considered for graduate economics programs. In fact, although there is probably more work involved with the joint degree (depending on your aptitude in math), there is no disadvantages for it career wise. Many employers are impressed with students who can manage a quantitatively rigorous curriculum.</p>
<p>You definitely do need a substantial amount of Math to be a good candidate for Econ grad programs. If the Econ-Math pathway is basically a double major (but with the math slightly tailored toward Econ purposes) I would say to go this route. If, however, it skimps on both the Econ and the Math side, you could consider an Econ major with a Math minor. You would be able to get in most of the Math courses you need while still really focusing on the Econ. Also, what is your Math background? There is a pretty big jump between Multivariable/Vector Calculus and upper level proofs based courses like Linear Algebra and Abstract Algebra. Just keep in mind that the Math portion won't be easy.</p>
<p>The Econ-Math is not a double major. Here is a comparison of the two majors; course lists are easily found from each site:</p>
<p>Econ-Math requirements: Math/CS</a> - Economics/Mathematics BA, Political Science/Mathematics BA
Econ requirements: Emory</a> Economics: Requirements for Majors & Minors</p>
<p>Econ course list: Emory</a> Economics: Course Descriptions
Math course list: Math/CS</a> - Undergraduate classes, Fall 2008, Mathematics</p>
<p>I'm considering doing a 3-2 engineering program, and the Math portion overlaps with the pre-engineering requirements. So it would actually save me courses to do Econ-Math (if I take this route).</p>
<p>I got a 5 on AP BC Calc back in high school, but I didn't do any math freshman year. I'm going to be taking a summer course in calc IV (differential equations), so that should get me back into math gear.</p>
<p>Also, any effects on admission to MBA school or law school (yeah I know I'm all over the place, haha)?</p>
<p>From my school's (Wellesley) Econ page:</p>
<ol>
<li>Typical Math Background of Recent Applicants Admitted to the Top 5 Ph.D Programs in Economics
Math 115 (Calculus I)
Math 116, 116z or 120 (Calculus II)
Math 205 (Intermediate Calculus)
Math 206 (Linear Algebra)
Math 210 (Differential Equations)
Math 302 (Elements of Analysis I)
Math 303 (Elements of Analysis II)
Math 305 (Modern Abstract Algebra)
Econ 303 (Mathematics for Economics)
Econ 317 (Advanced Econometrics)</li>
</ol>
<p>It looks like you will be lacking Real Analysis and Abstract Algebra, which are certainly not necessary, but will help you knock the admission board's socks off. You might as well go the Econ-Math route and just supplement your major with a few more Math classes if you have room in your schedule and are actually enjoying the Math classes. </p>
<p>I'd say if you're a good candidate for top grad programs and do well on the requisite tests, you'd be a great candidate for business and law schools (probably more so with the business just because it's more closely related- my impression of law school is that your major doesn't really matter).</p>
<p>Math-Econ will give you more career and post grad options.</p>