Economics and Finance

Chair: Kamal P. Upadhyaya, Ph.D.

Professors Emeriti: Phillip Kaplan, Johns Hopkins University; Ward Theilman, Ph.D., University of Illinois

Professors: Richard Highfield, Ph.D., University of Chicago; Robert M. Rainish, Ph.D., City University of New York; Kamal P. Upadhyaya, Ph.D., Auburn University

Associate Professors: Wentworth Boynton, Ph.D., University of Rhode Island; John J. Phelan, Ph.D., George Washington University; Demissew Ejara, Ph.D., University of Connecticut; Armando Rodriguez, Ph.D., University of Texas

Assistant Professors: Esin Cakin, Ph.D., City University of New York; Nadejda Doytch, Ph.D., City University of New York

Lecturer: Gregory Blosick, Ph.D., Ohio State University

The Department of Economics and Finance offers courses in both economics and finance. Faculty in the department have a wide range of research interests, as well as extensive experience in government policymaking, consulting, and industry.

Economics courses provide a basis for an understanding of economic structures, a wide range of domestic and international issues, and trends in the economic life of modern societies. These courses offer training in analysis of economic problems as an aid to the evaluation of economic policies. The minor in behavioral economics addresses the emerging importance of understanding market behavior and the heuristics and biases that impact decision-making in the context of uncertainty.

Finance, as an area of study, is designed to promote an analytic appreciation of the financial system and the financial decision-making process in which society—through its individuals, business firms, and governments—is continually engaged. In particular, the study of finance provides a structured analysis of the financial system and the financial decision-making process as determinants of the economic wealth of the individual, the business firm, and the nation. The study of finance enables the student to pursue the preparation required for a number of financial decision-making positions in government and industry, including the financial services industry. Both a B.S. and a minor in finance are available for the interested student.

The department encourages internships, which enable students to combine their education with practical, paid work experience in their career field. For additional details, consult your academic advisor and the Office of Internships and Employer Relations at 203.932.7491.