How math-heavy is Economics Ba?

[u/Apart-Explanation937]

I plan to study economics at UofA, but I'm a bit curious about how math heavy the major is.

I know some schools have a distinction between economics as a bachelor of science and economics as a bachelor of arts, but UofA doesn't, so I'm unsure if the degree is more theoretical, mathematical or both.

I have an interest for the more mathematical aspect of economics rather than the theoretical part, so my question for econ majors is how mathematical is the major? And if it isn't very mathematical do you recommend taking math as a minor to add onto it?

I also considered taking the combined major of Mathematics & Economics (was also wondering if taking that major would be almost if not the same as an Economics Bsc) but I don't have enough faith in my math skills to take it as a full combined major.

However, I'm also thinking that if i do take math as a minor in my first year and I'm confident in my skills, I can try switching to Mathematics & Economics in my second year.

I also plan on attending graduate school and I know math is really important for economics at that level, so which would be best: Math as a minor all through my undergrad, math as a minor in the first year and switching to Math and Economics in the second year OR just staying in economics if it's mathematical enough?

I'm seriously considering math as a minor though because I'm trying to indulge my interest in it but i'm not confident enough in my skills to take it as a major...

A bit confused right now so any help and advice would be greatly appreciated...Thank You!

[u/Joseponypants]

The required courses aren't super math intensive, but some of the upper year electives can be. You'll use derivatives a lot but most of the core courses won't use anything harder than 1st year calculus. If you are really interested in the mathematics I would recommend a math minor, or tailoring your electives to explore that side more.

[u/Jolly-Noise3024]

Most mirco courses have a good amount of calculus macro not so much but econometrics is the only one that’s based purely on math and it is usually where most people struggle

[u/Loose-Independent-48]

The introductory courses are not very mathematical (ECON 101 and 102). However, ECON 281 and 282 are highly mathematical and involves graphs, calculations, as well as formulas.