Why study Economics at MC?
Are you interested in learning how economists explain the Great Recession of 2008? Do you wonder how economics can help us understand the effects of globalization? What can economics tell us about the provision of health care? Economics at Maryville College investigates these questions as an integral part of the liberal arts. The major’s primary goal is to cultivate patterns of inquiry that produce economic literacy, independent thinking, and a commitment to lifelong learning and a socially responsible life. Economics majors share a common foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics, development economics, and history of economic thought. Students then choose from electives such as Money and Banking, Environmental Economics, International Trade, Public Policy, Investment Analysis, and Economic History according to their interests. All students at Maryville College also complete a two-semester research project in their major under the supervision of a faculty member.
In conjunction with the core curriculum, the Economics major develops skills in logical reasoning, data analysis and effective communication, which are essential for economists. Like the alums pictured above, many of our economics graduates find employment in banking and financial services. Others work in the areas of teaching, healthcare administration, and policy analysis. Some choose to continue their studies in law, business, agricultural economics and public policy.
The Major in Economics is appropriate for the student interested in the functioning of the economic system and in economic policy.
Meet a Current Scot
Sydney Dickinson
Hometown: Nolensville, Tennessee
Sydney chose MC because of its “tight-knit and supportive community,” and she appreciated the College’s commitment to inclusivity, impact, and outreach to the surrounding community. She is a member of the softball team, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Best Buddies.
As an Economics major, Sydney enjoys studying human behavior, money, power, decision making, and how all of it affects society. She chose to study at a liberal arts college because it supports well the interdisciplinary nature of economics, and she believed it would be great preparation for her next steps. “Economics combines many aspects of the social sciences,” she explained. Her long-term goals are to pursue either a graduate program or law school to become either an entrepreneur or attorney.
Meet a Recent Grad
Cullen Pirie ’22
Currently: Finance Leader for Newell Brands
Originally wanting to major in Finance/Accounting, Cullen switched to Economics after his first year because of its blend of analytical logic and study of societal behaviors. “I enjoyed the combination of ‘left-brain’ and ‘right-brain’ activity,” he explained. This symbiotic relationship was also evident in Cullen’s experience at MC, with class rigor challenging his mental fortitude and faculty-student relationships providing a family-like atmosphere. “The professors that make up the Economics department were instrumental in my professional development and transition into the working world,” he added.
At Newell, Cullen is responsible for forecasting costs on capital projects, maintaining variable and overhead expenses at the plants, and general oversight on material usage and inventory.
