ECON 3720 seems similar to ECON 4720. What’s the difference between these two courses?
Both courses teach econometrics. Econometrics is the toolkit of statistical techniques—in particular, regression analysis—that help us decide whether causal stories about economic behavior are supported by actual data. We believe strongly that every economics major should study econometrics, and we expect that within a few years it will be a required course. ECON 3720 and ECON 4720 take different approaches to teaching econometrics. They are not perfect substitutes. You should probably not take one if you have already taken the other. However, if you do choose to take both, both will count as economics electives. ECON 3720 focuses on applied regression analysis, without delving fully into its mathematical underpinnings. It’s excellent preparation for data analyst jobs at investment banks and consulting companies. ECON 4720 explores the mathematical foundations of regression analysis. The ideal student for ECON 4720 has taken several mathematics courses, and wants to thoroughly understa
