As an undergraduate sophomore considering various degree options, I met a university professor who suggested

that I explore coursework steeped in questioning, analysis, and research of a different type. He encouraged me to
explore an academic area that enabled me to ask difficult questions and to explore various solutions and theories
associated with business and human scenarios. He believed that this particular academic program might challenge me to
reach further, with more excitement and enthusiasm than what I had previously experienced. His assumption was
correct, and I have never regretted choosing to study in the field of Economics.

My undergraduate study has enabled me to explore various concentrations of economics; my favorite is the
study of public economics. Although I have enjoyed all of my major classes, I have actively sought undergraduate
research opportunities. During the spring semester of 2023, I began a project that analyzd various policy decisions and
subsequent implications on the current state of immigration reform. As a student researcher, I was named a finalist at
the Three Minute Thesis Competition sponsored by the University of Arizona. I was invited to discuss the project at a
University research roundtable event, and I was also a presenter at the spring 2023 conference of the Society of
Business and Economics. Immersed in the study, I determined to expand the research, partnering with my faculty
advisor in an effort to produce a more complete analysis of the subject. We were accepted to become Transaction
Records Access Clearinghouse (TRAC) research fellows. To attain my Economics degree, I have completed both
Intermediate Microeconomics and Macroeconomics, a course in Public Finance, a Contemporary Economic and Financial
Issues course, Business Calculus, and an independent study course to further an undergraduate research project. To
support my intense interest in economic research, I will have completed four semesters of Quantitative Methods
courses upon graduation.

Through my undergraduate career, I have had the pleasure of encountering professors who taught their specific
discipline with an infectious excitement. I understand how important it is to be led by professors who are not only
experts in their field, but who also are driven to encourage and see students succeed. Similarly, I plan to pursue a
teaching career after graduate work so that I, too, can encourage and excite students in the study of economics. The
Thesis Track of the Master of Arts in Economics degree at the [University Name] fits my academic and research goals
through opportunities to interact with stellar faculty and exciting research projects. I am pursuing admission into this
specific program because I truly believe that the MAEcon Thesis Track will prepare me for a seamless and successful
entry into a PhD program to further my knowledge in the realm of Economics.

I believe that the field of Economics is one of the most exciting tracks for students who are intent on pursuing a
career in banking, investment, agricultural economics, or general business. At this time in the life of our country and
globally, the study of economics is very relevant. I am certain it is the best choice for me personally; I appreciate your
consideration of my application. So that you are better aware of the program from which I am graduating, I am including
a recent program newsletter.

On behalf of the faculty and staff of the UA College of Business, it is my pleasure to welcome you to our university.
Business is an exciting career choice and we are pleased that you are considering one of the options in business offered by
the University of Arizona. Every organization-Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurial start-ups, retail stores, schools,
churches, manufacturers, social service agencies, technology firms, governmental agencies, airlines, hotels and
restaurants-requires business know-how. Our business programs prepare students for career success in whatever path they
pursue.

The College of Business at UA offers a broad array of concentrations. Students can pursue undergraduate majors in
accounting, banking and financial services, enterprise information systems, finance, economics, management, and
marketing. Graduate concentrations include accounting, information systems, international business, health care
management, finance, project management, ERP systems using SAP, and the executive option.

The College of Business is the fastest growing unit of the University, using on-campus and online programs to serve 1,100
undergraduates and more than 600 graduate students. Forty highly dedicated full-time faculty staff the College—most
holding PhDs from leading universities. The College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate
Schools of Business (AACSB) and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). The
information systems majors are also accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. The College of
Business hosts The Institute of Export Research and Transfer Technology and the Small Business Development Center.
Their presence provides opportunities for faculty and student research and consulting.

The College of Business is very proud of its alumni and students. Our graduates have an enviable record of success in
their professions, and our students are highly successful in statewide and national academic competition. Our faculty
members are dedicated to building on this record of success.

The College of Business is committed to continuous improvement of its curriculum, academic programs, faculty and staff
support, and its course management technology. Initiatives are pursued that enhance the academic and extracurricular
opportunities for College of Business students, providing them greater opportunities to grow professionally and
personally.

I hope you will accept the challenge of becoming a student and graduate of the College of Business. You will be limited
only by your imagination and your willingness to work hard and to engage in the opportunities we offer. The College of
Business can get you where you want to be, whether you are a first time freshman, a transfer student, or a working
professional exploring graduate degree options.

The impact of economics and finance in your world is profound and far-reaching. From corporate mergers and
restructuring to investing for retirement and even balancing your checkbook, a strong foundation in economics and
finance is beneficial. All areas of business depend on one's ability to think critically, to analyze thoroughly, and to
communicate effectively. The curriculum in the department of Economics and Finance is designed to develop these vital
skills. If you are interested in furthering your education through graduate study in business administration, economics,
finance, or law, you will find that our curriculum will give you a solid foundation.

You can earn a Bachelors degree with a major in either economics or finance. Many students choose to pursue a major in
both areas. Requirements for the Bachelors degree are listed under the Majors tab on this page.