Principles of Economics
Gain a firm grasp of the theories and tools of economics, finance, and the functioning of the international economic system.
The 9-week Principles of Economics (PoE) is a non-credit course that covers introductory micro- and macroeconomics and can be used to complete the school's two-year Master of Arts in International Relations economics admissions requirement. It can also be taken as a prerequisite to take the school’s International Economics courses.
The PoE course is organized into weekly modules with each lecture recorded on a virtual whiteboard. Each weekly module contains lectures, a problem set, a practice quiz, and a short graded quiz. Students are required to submit assignments on a weekly basis. A typical week in the PoE course will involve the following:
- A set of 6-8 video lectures, averaging 10-12 minutes in length
- Textbook readings selected to support and supplement the lectures
- Practice on both short-answer quizzes and more substantive conceptual problems
- A final assessment for each module
DOWNLOAD COURSE OVERVIEW
Course Eligibility
Course is open to incoming SAIS MAIR and MAIA students, and non-degree students. Admitted students who have not completed the economics admissions requirement will receive the course for free in the summer, but will be charged the $1600 course fee if they choose to take it in Spring 2025.
How to Apply
Spring 2025 OPE Dates February 3 to April 4, 2025
Students must receive a B- or higher in Principles of Economics in order to meet the requirements for the MAIR and MAIA degree programs. This is a prerequisite for International Economics I and International Economics II (or Essentials).