What is the economics major like at Amherst College?

Amherst’s economics major is rigorous, fairly quantitative, and still quite flexible because of the open curriculum. The department is known for strong training in economic theory and econometrics, and students can pair that with math, statistics, political science, computer science, or other fields without general education requirements getting in the way.

Coursework usually starts with introductory microeconomics and macroeconomics, then moves into intermediate micro and macro plus econometrics. From there, students choose upper-level electives in areas like labor economics, international economics, public finance, development, monetary economics, industrial organization, and political economy. The major is not just discussion-based or conceptual; you should expect real analytical work, data analysis, and comfort with mathematical reasoning.

Compared with some colleges, Amherst econ leans more toward the traditional liberal arts version of economics than toward pre-professional finance training. That means theory matters, and the department generally wants students to understand how economists build models and test them with evidence. At the same time, the open curriculum makes it easier to shape the major in different directions, so one student might build a very quantitative path with multivariable calculus, statistics, and advanced econometrics, while another might combine econ with law, history, or public policy interests.

A big strength is the academic environment around the major. Amherst has small classes, close faculty access, and strong overall economics placement for research, policy, consulting, finance, and graduate study.

In practice, the major feels best for students who like both abstract thinking and empirical analysis.