Challenge yourself. Discover. Leave your mark.

The primary distinction between a major and an honours degree in economics is the requirement to complete ECON 4999—Honours Essay (for Bachelor of Arts students) or Honours Dissertation (for Bachelor of Science students). This capstone project involves independent research under the guidance of a faculty supervisor and offers academically strong students the opportunity to explore a topic of interest in greater depth.

If you are passionate about economics and eager to push your learning beyond the classroom, the honours program is for you. Whether you're completing a Bachelor of Arts or Science, carrying out independent research will sharpen analytical skills and allow you to engage deeply with a topic that excites you.

Why Choose Honours?

• Stand out to employers and graduate schools. Completing honours research shows initiative, discipline, and advanced technical skills, which are assets in careers ranging from government and policy to consulting, finance, and academia.
  
  
• Work closely with a faculty member. Benefit from one-on-one mentorship as you develop your research question, methodology, and analysis.
  
  
• Dive deep into what interests you. Pick a topic you are passionate about and take the lead to make your ideas count.
  
  
• Showcase your originality. This is your chance to present a well-defended argument that’s entirely your own.

Choosing the honours option means you're not just learning economics—you’re doing economics. You will come away with sharper thinking, stronger communication skills, and a powerful academic achievement that sets you apart.

How It Works (In 5 Simple Steps)

1. Meet with the Department
   Talk to the Director of Undergraduate Programs, ideally at the end of your second year, to discuss honours requirements.
   
   
2. Choose a Topic and Supervisor
   Pick a focused topic connected to your coursework. Talk with various faculty members to hear their unique advice and find someone who can supervise your research.
   
   
3. Submit a Proposal
   About 6–8 weeks before the start of your final semester of study, submit a 1–2 page proposal outlining your research question, why it matters, a brief plan and key sources.
   
   
4. Research and Write
   Work closely with your supervisor throughout the year. You will submit two progress reports and get feedback as you go.
   
   
5. Submit Final Essay
   Submit a full draft two weeks before classes end, and your final version on the last day of classes.

How to Apply?

If you are considering or planning to register for the honours program, please reach out to us at the end of your second year of study. The Director of Undergraduate Programs will be able to assess your academic performance and discuss career ambitions to help determine if this pathway is right for you.

To apply, students are simply required to fill out and submit an Application for Admission to Honours Program form.

Once enrolled in the program, you will be asked to submit your research proposal about 6–8 weeks before the start of your final semester of study. A first draft of the essay will eventually be due at least two weeks before the end of classes in your final semester, with the completed version due on the last day of classes in that semester.

More Information

For more information, including program requirements, please consult the University Calendar or contact the Director of Undergraduate Programs.