Economics
What Is Economics?
Economics is the study of how societies allocate resources, make decisions, and shape outcomes – from individual choices to global systems. At McMaster, students explore everything from market dynamics and public policy to health care, international trade, and environmental sustainability.
The program blends theory with real-world application, preparing students to analyze complex problems and drive meaningful change.
What Might You Study?
McMaster’s Economics program offers a wide range of topics and subfields:
Microeconomics & Macroeconomics
Understand consumer behavior, market structures, and national economies.
Econometrics & Quantitative Methods
Use data and statistical models to test economic theories.
Public Economics & Policy
Explore taxation, government spending, and policy design.
International Trade & Finance
Analyze global markets and financial systems.
Health, Labour, And Environmental Economics
Apply economic tools to social challenges.
Program Options
Program Type |
Description |
| Honours BA in Economics | Core program with options for specialization and co-op |
| Honours Economics (Specialist Option) | Advanced training in econometrics and quantitative analysis |
| Honours BA Economics (Specialist Option) |
A 4-year program with advanced theory and econometrics, ideal for students planning graduate study in economics |
| Honours Economics Co-op | Combine academic study with paid work experience |
| BA in Economics | Flexible 3-year program for broad exploration |
| Minor in Economics | Add economic insight to another major |
| Combined Honours BA Economics & Computer Science | Pair economic theory with computational skills for careers in data science, finance, or tech innovation |
| Combined Honours BA Economics & Mathematics | Integrate analytical economics with advanced math for quantitative research and policy modeling |
| Honours BA in Economics (Accelerated) |
A fast-tracked 3-year program for high-achieving students seeking intensive study and early graduation |
| Applied Social Sciences Research Certificate | Concurrent credential focused on research skills |
* Courses range from topics like Mathematical Economics, Econometrics, Public Finance, International Trade, and Experimental Economics
Kickstart Your Journey With Economics I
Begin your university experience with Economics I, the dedicated first-year entry point into McMaster’s Economics programs. This pathway builds a strong foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and mathematical economics, while giving you the flexibility to explore other disciplines. Whether you’re headed toward policy, finance, or data-driven research, Economics I sets the stage for deeper discovery and future specialization.
Unique Opportunities
Economics students at McMaster benefit from hands-on learning, research access, and career-building experiences that go far beyond the classroom.
Research Labs & Facilities
Economics students have access to specialized labs and research centres that support cutting-edge analysis and real-world data exploration.
- McMaster Decision Science Laboratory (McDSL): Empirical research into human decision-making
- Secure Empirical Analysis Lab (SEAL): High-security space for working with confidential data
- Statistics Canada Research Data Centre (RDC): Access to national microdata for advanced research
- Centre for Health Economics and Policy Analysis (CHEPA): A world-renowned interdisciplinary health research centre that fosters excellence in policy-relevant research, education and service to inform fair and sustainable health and social systems
Experiential Learning & Internships
Economics students at McMaster can gain real-world experience through a variety of paid internships and co-op placements. These roles are offered through the Careers & Experiential Education (CEE) office and posted on OSCARplus, McMaster’s job and opportunity portal.
Key features:
- Internships available in government, finance, policy, and nonprofit sectors
- Co-op placements lasting 4, 8, 12, or 16 months
- Optional course: SOC SCI 2EL3 – Career Planning through Experiential Learning
- Transcript recognition for completed placements
These experiences help students build professional networks, apply classroom knowledge, and gain a competitive edge in the job market.
Study Abroad & Global Opportunities
Through the McMaster Exchange Program, Economics students can study abroad while earning credits and paying regular tuition. These opportunities allow students to explore global economic systems and broaden their academic horizons.
Highlights:
- Partner universities in over 30 countries – including the UK, France, Japan, and Australia
- Credits transfer directly to your McMaster degree
- No international tuition fees – pay McMaster rates
- Cultural immersion and global networking
Additional opportunities include:
- McCall MacBain International Fellowship – Combines language study, academics, and work abroad
- Killam Fellowships – Exchange between Canadian and U.S. universities with funding support
These programs help students develop adaptability, intercultural communication, and career-ready skills in a global context.
McMaster Economics Society (MES) Explore more about MES here!
The McMaster Economics Society (MES) is a student-led group that builds community and supports academic growth for Economics undergrads. It’s a great way to get involved, meet peers, and explore your interests outside the classroom.
What MES offers:
- EconTalks, Meet the Profs, and Discussion Nights for academic engagement
- Skill-building workshops like Intro to R, resume clinics, and career panels
- Social events including trivia nights, mixers, and themed socials
- Networking opportunities with faculty, alumni, and industry professionals
Whether you’re looking to grow academically or connect socially, MES is your gateway to getting involved in the Economics community.
MSSS Mentorship Program Find a mentor today!
Find your footing with support from someone who’s been there. The McMaster Social Sciences Society (MSSS) Mentorship Program connects first- and second-year Economics students with upper-year mentors who offer guidance, encouragement, and insider tips on navigating university life. Whether you’re unsure about course selection, exams, or career paths, your mentor is there to help.
What you’ll gain:
- Academic advice tailored to the Economics program
- A peer to talk to about university challenges and opportunities
- Access to exclusive mentorship events – both academic and social
- A sense of community and connection within the Faculty of Social Sciences
It’s a great way to build confidence, meet people, and make the most of your time at McMaster.