Special Fields and General Examinations

In addition to the satisfactory completion of the core requirements, competence in four special fields must be demonstrated, of which two fields are designated as major and two fields are designated as minor. Competence in the major fields must be demonstrated by passing a written general examination whose content includes, but is not necessarily restricted to, topics covered in specific subject offerings related to those fields.

In contrast, competence in the minor fields can be demonstrated by the satisfactory completion of designated subjects in each field, or by completion of the supervised research minor field. Satisfaction of a field by course work alone requires a grade of B or better in each of the two terms of subject matter. (Although the core econometrics requirement can be satisfied with a grade of B-minus, a grade of B must be attained if it is used as a minor field.)

The fields in which the Department offers specialization and the subjects that will satisfy their designation as a minor field are given in the chart below. Some fields overlap so substantially that both cannot be taken by a student. In any event, the same subject cannot be counted towards more than a single minor field. Students must receive the approval of their Graduate Registration Officer for their designated major and minor fields.

Students normally demonstrate competence in all four fields by the end of their second year. That is, they normally finish their required course work and general examinations by that time. In the event that scheduling or other difficulties interfere with this timing, one minor field other than theory or econometrics (including the paper), or one subject in a minor field and in history, may be postponed until the third year. Before making such a deferment, students must consult with their Graduate Registration Officer. Students planning to take the general examination before the end of the second year.the usual time.must obtain permission in advance from their Graduate Registration Officer.