<p>Hi, I have finished a year at NU and was considering majoring in econ. However, relative to the curves for the two intro classes, I didn’t do too spectacular (B+ and B). Do the curves for econ classes get easier or harder?</p>
<p>If it’s anything like my experiences in undergrad (at UCSD), the curves become a lot more generous as classes become more difficult.</p>
<p>In one of my econometric forecasting classes, the cutoff for an A was 60%, and in one of my game theory/decisions under uncertainty courses, the cutoff for a C- was 30%.</p>
<p>Based on my daughter’s experience, there doesn’t seem to be a clear answer to that, as it depends on the prof and the course.</p>
<p>what is the econ major like? i’m a member of the class of 2016 and i was considering econ (along with 4-5 other majors!) but am kind of aloof to what is exactly in the field of study - i just like the idea of economics in general.</p>
<p>basically, what do econ majors learn? - and what do they end up becoming slash doing with their lives</p>
<p>I’d suggest you to go to B&N and read one of those “fun” economics books. They are much easier and enjoyable to read than textbooks and you’d the big picture pretty quickly without any graphs and equations. It’s often easier to digest equations and graphs when you know what the underlying big picture is.</p>
<p>I took Econ 310-1, 310-2, and 311 as a freshman. I thought the material in each was very easy and interesting, but ended up with a B, B+, and A. If you are going into business which many people do, econ is a great major, but I recommend a 2nd one also like industrial engineering.</p>
<p>@NU2015 They are going to get slightly more challenging. The 300-level requirements (intermediate macro and micro) have a higher level of difficulty and still tough curves for the econ major. Other commenters are right that 300-level survey courses are easier to do well in (with a couple exceptions). If you are concerned – go talk to Mark Witte, head of the econ department. He’s extremely helpful and an incredibly nice guy. </p>
<p>@browncabinets – Econ is generally used as a defacto business major at Northwestern. Also consider its the most widely used double major as well. Depending on exerience / other courses of study many will go into consulting, finance, marketing, trading, etc. </p>
<p>SamLee is right, whether or not you actually choose to major in it, its still an enjoyable an extremely interesting lens on how to view the world, take an intro class or read a book on it!</p>