EC 347 - Economics of Race and Inequality

(3.00 cr.)

Examines racial inequities and discrimination from an economics perspective. We ask hard questions such as: Why does the racial wealth gap persist? Why are African Americans disproportionately represented in our prisons and more likely to be shot by police officers? And why, more than 60 years after Brown versus Board of Education, are our schools becoming more segregated? The course uses economists' toolbox to better understand and answer questions surrounding racial justice in the U.S. specifically regarding the labor market, the housing market, the criminal justice system, and education. In small groups, students complete a major research paper focused on developing policy solutions to a specific problem related to racism or inequality in the U.S.. The course also implements various experiential learning techniques such as student-led group discussions, tours to museums, guest speakers from community organizations, and community engagement such as writing an op-ed or to an elected representative.

Prerequisite: EC 102 , EC 220 .
Sessions Typically Offered: Spring
Years Typically Offered: Annually