I know you have to take calculus and statistics but what is the math like in economics classes? I like algebra but despise geometry and trig is okay. I like the ideas in economics but don’t know if I would enjoy the math. Any info is appreciated!
Start one thread with your question, not three or more
The math requirement for econ majors varies widely by college, anywhere from a minimum of just Calc 1 (differential calculus) to as high as Calc 3 (multivariable calculus). At some schools, econ majors take an easier version of calculus, while other schools require the same calculus class that science and engineering majors take. Statistics is also required, but that could either be non-calculus-based (same as AP Statistics) or calculus-based. If you’re a weaker math student, you definitely will want to look into each individual college’s math requirements for their econ majors.
The most common math covered will be calculus, at a standard undergrad program. Algebra is probably the most like calculus, at least in relation to the topics you have seen.
Additionally, most econ programs don’t focus on giving a rigorous treatment of mathematics. You are instead taught to use it as a tool to solve problems in economics. Likewise, most students don’t find the math in economics too interesting (it becomes just a set of computations you need to know how to do). The more interesting part of the economics curriculum will be the economic implications of the math that you do.
Low math: statistics, but not calculus. Examples: Florida State, Penn State*
Medium math: calculus and statistics. Examples: Penn State, Minnesota, Cornell, UCLA, Harvard, UC Berkeley, UC Irvine, UC San Diego*
High math: multivariable calculus, linear algebra, statistics. Examples: Harvard+, UC Berkeley+, UC Irvine+, UC San Diego+, UC Santa Cruz, Chicago, MIT, Stanford
- = less math version of major offered by school
- = more math version of major offered by school
Students considering going on to PhD study in economics should prefer more math, and take additional advanced math and statistics, such as real analysis, proof based linear algebra, calculus-based probability theory, etc…
So there won’t be many proofs?