Department of Economics

Economics is a social science, which studies human behavior in its endeavour to use scarce resources in the best possible ways. The modern economic approach makes use of quantitative and analytical tools to uncover regularities in the ordinary business of life.

Koç University offers both BA and MA degrees in Economics.

The undergraduate program is designed to provide a solid foundation in economics by combining economic theory with policy and business applications. Students are engaged in active learning, so that they can develop their inherent curiosity about economic phenomena into economic intuition that will prove quite useful in analyzing economic and non-economic issues alike. The program offers courses in basic theory and a wide range of applied subjects. The economics curriculum is designed to prepare students for the challenging environment of the fast-paced global economy, whether they choose to pursue a business or public service career, or opt for graduate studies in economics leading to advanced degrees.

A basic understanding of economic principles should be an important part of a good college education. With this perspective, the program is designed to serve students in other fields as well. The program offers a variety of courses on economic issues, which all students can take after one introductory course in economics. In addition, the program offers double majoring option to students in other fields, who have a serious interest in economics.

The MA program in Economics is designed to serve as a bridge to a career in Economics. The two-year program has a thesis requirement. The first year is devoted to coursework in economic theory and econometrics. The second year is primarily devoted to directed research. Application oriented advanced courses offered in the Fall semester expedite the research orientation.

Both the undergraduate and graduate programs offer opportunities for close faculty-student interaction. MA students have TA and RA positions in the department. BA students who stand out in their coursework are also given short-term TA and RA appointments. Workshops, Seminars and Public Lectures serve as platforms for discussions on the frontiers of research and debates on economic policy.