Prospective Students

Information for Prospective Students

We are very excited you’re interested in studying economics with us. As an undergraduate student in the Department of Economics at the University of New Mexico, you will have the opportunity to learn about the most pressing problems of this century through the lens of an economist. Working with a committed, diverse faculty, you will learn in-demand skills and knowledge as you progress through the program. You will take a set of foundational economics courses before embarking on electives that suit your own interest. There is also a host of ways to Enrich Your Econ Degree through research opportunities, internships, study abroad, and much more.  

The undergraduate program offers a major and minor both on campus and online. Beginning in Academic Year 2023-2024, the Department of Economics is excited to offer a Shared Credit Master of Arts in Economics Plan III (coursework only). Learn more here!

Whether you’re a new incoming freshman with your heart set on economics, transitioning out of the exploration/undecided period, or kicking around the idea of switching majors, we’ll be here for you when you’re ready to declare Economics as your major. It’s never too early or too late to join our program.

Flexible Learning Paths

The breadth of electives and flexibility of the program allows students to choose coursework that best fits their interests and post-graduate ambitions. Below are suggested courses grouped by focus but you can choose any combination of courses for your degree. Note - not all courses we offer are listed below and many may fall into more than one area. See the Course Catalog for a full list of course offerings. Students are encouraged to discuss the selection of electives with the Economics Undergraduate Advisor or Undergraduate Director.

Becoming an Economics Major or Minor at UNM is as Easy as 1-2-3

Visit for information on how to join the UNM Economics Accelerated Online Program.

Step 1. Become a Main Campus Lobo by Applying to UNM – Main Campus

Any student wishing to pursue a B.A. in Economics should firstly be admitted to UNM. UNM makes it easy for students to apply. Go to http://www.unm.edu/apply to find out admission requirements and to select your application depending on your “student-type” (e.g., first-time freshmen, transfer student, international student, etc.)

Step 2. Declare your Major or Minor in Economics with our Department Undergraduate Advisor

When you’re ready, and whether you want to declare Economics as a major, add it as a double major, switch majors, or add a minor, schedule an appointment with the Economics Department Undergraduate Advisor using LoboAchieve. Follow the LoboAchieve Scheduling Instructions to help guide you. For general advisement questions you may also call (505) 277- 4621 or email econadvise@unm.edu (must be sent from UNM email and include UNM ID#).

Step 3. Automatically Transition from Pre-Major to Major

When the following conditions are met, you’ll automatically be transitioned from Pre-Major to Major status. (i) Completed at least 26 student credit hours (SCH), (ii) cumulative GPA is at least 2.0, (iii) satisfied the following UNM General Education areas (grade of C or better in each course): 6 credits in Communication, 3 credits in Mathematics and Statistics, 3 credits in Second Language, and (iv) earned a grade of C or better in ECON 2110: Macroeconomic Principles and ECON 2120: Microeconomic Principles.

Interested? Connect with US!

If you’re interested in learning more about the program or how you can become a part of it, reach out to our dedicated Undergraduate Advisor or Undergraduate Director team:

Kayla Dubrule, Economics Department Undergraduate Advisor

To declare an economics major and consultation on your degree requirements, minors/2^nd majors, academic holds, class scheduling/semester planning, advisement paperwork, or referrals to campus resources, please make an appointment with the advisor. To schedule an appointment, follow the Loboachieve Scheduling Instructions. For general advisement questions email econadvise@unm.edu. Emails must be sent from your UNM email address and include your UNM ID #.

Dr. Dave Dixon and Dr. Cristina Reiser, Economics Department Undergraduate Program Co-Directors

For consultation on course choices, internships, graduate school planning, and careers, please email one of the Undergraduate Directors, Dr. Cristina Reiser at creiser@unm.edu or Dr. Dave Dixon at ddixon@unm.edu. Emails must be sent from your UNM email and include your UNM ID #. 

In addition, Advisement at the College of Arts and Sciences Center for Academic Success provides information on connecting with advisement services, workshops, and orientations.