ECON 3398 Economics and Defense

This upper-division elective explores the economic foundations of national defense through the lens of industrial organization and technology-driven growth models. Students will analyze the structure and behavior of defense industries, examining monopoly and monopsony dynamics, procurement incentives, and the role of public-private partnerships in defense innovation. The course will also assess how technological advancements drive military capabilities, influence strategic competition, and shape long-term economic security. Case studies will highlight the interaction between defense policy, industrial policy, and economic constraints, equipping students with the analytical tools to evaluate defense-related economic decisions in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Course overview

Department
Economics
School
MCAS
Credits
3
Level
Undergraduate
Offered
Periodically

Catalog details

Prerequisites
ECON2201 (or ECON2203)

Catalog text is imported from the reviewed Boston College course snapshot. Confirm eligibility in EagleApps.

Requirements fulfilled

  • Economics B.A.: Economics elective options (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)

Requirement eligibility can vary by school, cohort, and section. Confirm the selected section in EagleApps or with an advisor.

Official evaluation summary

4.50 / 5

Based on 24 aggregate responses from BC Avalanche/Blue evaluations.

Data freshness

Course and evaluation data last updated 2026-08-02. Source details and limitations are documented in Data Sources and Methodology.

Instructors

Sections

  • Section 01
    Fall 2026 · Peter Devine · Devlin Hall 218 MW 04:30PM-05:45PM · Offered