What Category is Economics on the Common App? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Not as Boring as You Think)
So, you’re all set to conquer the Common App, but then BAM! You hit a wall. The dreaded “What Category is Economics?” question. You might be thinking, “Economics? That’s all about money, right? So, it’s gotta be Business, duh!”
Hold your horses, my friend. It’s not quite that simple.
The Short Answer: Economics is most commonly categorized as a Social Science on the Common App.
The Long Answer: Think of it this way. The Common App is like a giant, bureaucratic playground where colleges get to see how you play with different subjects. Now, economics, the study of how people make choices given limited resources, is not just about counting your pennies (though that’s definitely a part of it). It’s about understanding how societies function, how individuals interact with each other, and how decisions impact the world around us.
You see, economics dives deep into the human psyche. It’s about understanding how people make choices, why some people are more risk-averse than others, and how our decisions impact the entire economic system. And that, my friend, is why it’s categorized as a social science.
Economics: More Than Just Numbers
Let’s break down why economics is more than just crunching numbers:
- It’s about people. At its core, economics is about understanding human behavior. Why do people buy certain products? How do different cultures approach economic issues? How do government policies affect individual choices? These are all questions economists grapple with.
- It’s about the big picture. Economics is not just about your personal finances. It’s about understanding global trade, international markets, and the economic challenges facing societies worldwide.
- It’s about solving problems. Economists use their knowledge to develop solutions to real-world issues, such as poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability.
Why Social Science?
The Common App’s categorization of economics as a social science makes sense. Social sciences delve into the complexities of human behavior, relationships, and societal structures. Economics, with its focus on individual and collective decision-making, fits snugly into that sphere.
Think of it this way:
- Psychology: Studies how individuals think, feel, and behave.
- Sociology: Looks at the structure and function of societies.
- Anthropology: Examines human cultures and societies across different time periods.
- Economics: Explores the choices people make in the face of scarcity and how these choices impact the world around them.
See? Economics is all about those human connections and the impact of choices on society. That’s why it’s a social science, not a business subject.
The Business Connection
Now, you might be thinking, “But wait, I see economics courses in business schools. So, shouldn’t it be a business subject?”
This is where things get a little tricky. While economics heavily influences business practices and financial decision-making, it’s not solely confined to the realm of business.
Think of it like this: You might use a hammer to build a house, but a hammer isn’t exclusively for building houses. It’s a tool that can be used for various purposes. Economics is a tool that can be applied to business, but it’s also a powerful tool for understanding the world around us.
What About Specific Courses?
You might be wondering what to do when you’re listing your specific economics courses. Should you stick with social science? Here’s the deal:
- General Economics Courses: Generally, courses like “Principles of Economics” or “Microeconomics” fall under the Social Science category.
- Specialized Economics Courses: Courses with a specific business focus, such as “Financial Economics” or “Managerial Economics,” might be considered business-related.
If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to double-check with your guidance counselor or college admissions office.
Navigating the Common App: Beyond the Categories
The Common App is a bit of a beast, and its categories aren’t always crystal clear. But remember, it’s not about fitting perfectly into a box. It’s about showcasing your unique strengths and interests.
Here are some tips for navigating the Common App:
- Be honest: Don’t try to force your interests into a category that doesn’t fit.
- Be specific: If you’re passionate about a particular aspect of economics, highlight that in your application.
- Show, don’t tell: Use your application essays, supplemental materials, and extracurricular activities to demonstrate your interest in economics.
The Bottom Line:
Don’t stress about the exact category. Show your passion for economics, and the universities will see your potential. Just remember, economics is a fascinating field that goes beyond the bottom line. It’s all about the impact of choice on individuals and societies, making it a true social science.
Need More Help? If you’re still struggling to categorize your economics activities or have any other questions about the Common App, don’t hesitate to reach out to the JobLoving community. We’re here to help you navigate the complex world of college applications and make sure you stand out from the crowd.