ObjectivesThe study of economics has changed considerably over the past twenty years, influenced mainly by the advent and prevalence of mathematical and econometric methods of analysis. While it was once possible to gain a fairly broad knowledge of the subject at the undergraduate level, this target is now more difficult to achieve. Consequently, the graduate programs are designed to provide students with a broad based knowledge of theories, quantitative methods and applications of economics. At the doctoral level, students specialize by choosing two areas in which they will pursue advanced course work and research, while at the master's level, one field is required. The Diploma in Economics is designed to provide students, who already hold an undergraduate degree, with a more specialized knowledge of economics. The emphasis of the Diploma is on applications and policies as opposed to the purely theoretical aspects of economics. Courses are offered in economic development and planning; financial economics; public economics; international economics; industrial economics; labour economics; economic theory; and econometrics.
Practical experienceThere is an optional co-op aspect associated with this program.
Academic titleMaster of Arts in Economics
Course descriptionRequirements for the Degree
1. Credits. A fully-qualified candidate is required to complete a minimum of 45 credits.
2. Residence. The minimum residence requirement is one year (3 terms) of fulltime study, or the equivalent in part-time study.
3. Courses. A fully-qualified candidate is required to take three 3-credit courses Microeconomics I (ECON 612), Macroeconomics I (ECON 615) and Econometrics I (ECON 680) and five additional 3-credit courses selected in consultation with the Graduate Program Director.
4. Research Paper. Each student must write a research paper (ECON 703, 21 credits) demonstrating an application of knowledge in a particular area of economics. The topic of the research paper must be approved by the Graduate Program Director and a full-time member of the Department who is prepared to act as supervisor. The research paper is prepared under the guidance of the supervisor who must approve and recommend the final version for examination by an independent member of the Department appointed by the Graduate Program Director.
5. Fields of Specialization. Each M.A. student is required to complete one field of specialization by successfully completing 2 courses from the sequences offered in any of the following areas: Econometrics, Economic Development and Planning; Financial Economics; Industrial Economics; International Economics; Labour Economics; Macroeconomics; Microeconomics; Public Economics.