Economics is the study of how people make choices—how goods and services are produced, distributed, and consumed, and how individuals and institutions respond to incentives. As a field grounded in both theory and data, economics helps us understand complex social issues and make informed, evidence-based decisions.

The economics minor is a valuable complement to any major, especially for students pursuing public health, public policy, sociology, political science, prelaw or business. At St. Kate’s, students are encouraged to think critically and apply a rigorous empirical lens to real-world challenges—locally and globally.

Students begin by learning foundational concepts in courses such as Economics of Social Issues, Principles of Microeconomics, or Principles of Macroeconomics. With guidance from faculty, they then select upper-level electives that align with their interests and career goals. Options include International Economics: Trade and Immigration, Quantitative Impact Evaluation, and Discrimination: Economics and Politics of Race and Gender, among others.

Outside the classroom, students can deepen their engagement through the Economics Club and events hosted by the Minnesota Center for Diversity in Economics—such as panel discussions on topics like “Socialism vs. Capitalism” or “The Economics of Immigration.”

This minor is offered through the College for Women. At least three of the five required courses must be completed in residence at St. Catherine University.

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Choose two from the following:		8
ECON 1120	Economics of Social Issues
ECON 2610	Principles of Microeconomics
ECON 2620	Principles of Macroeconomics
Choose 12 credits in ECON electives in consultation with advisor		12
Total Credits		20