Choosing Courses

In order to choose the right courses, you must first understand the economics requirements at SAIS. Click here to open the International Economics Program Web site. 

The information on this page describes the eligibility requirements for Pre-Term course work. Only intermediate-level economics courses are offered during Pre-Term. Click here for more information about the introductory-level SAIS Online Principles of Economics course.

Eligibility for Pre-Term

To be eligible for Pre-Term course work, M.A. candidates must have successfully completed the admissions entrance requirement for course work in principles of economics prior to the start of the program. This can be done through one principles of microeconomics course and one principles of macroeconomics course, or a single combined course on principles of microeconomics and principles of macroeconomics. Successful completion is defined as a minimum grade of "B-" or the numerical equivalent. The principles courses may be taken from any accredited institution.

Those who were conditionally admitted to SAIS because they have not yet successfully completed principles of microeconomics and/or principles of macroeconomics, may register for Pre-Term as long as they have submitted official proof of successful completion of this course work or of current enrollment. This proof is due to the Pre-term Office by the enrollment deadline, June 26, 2013. Those who have questions about their conditional status should e-mail the Admissions Office.

M.I.P.P. candidates who have successfully completed principles of economics course work with a minimum grade of "B-" may register for the corresponding intermediate level Pre-Term course. For example, an M.I.P.P. candidate who received an "A-" in Principles of Microeconomics from an accredited institution may register for intermediate Microeconomics in Pre-Term. An M.I.P.P. candidate who received an "A" in Principles of Macroeconomics from an accredited institution may register for intermediate Macroeconomics in Pre-Term. M.I.P.P. candidates are not required to complete economics course work for their degree. 

Ph.D. candidates may enroll in Pre-Term to accelerate their study of economics or complete Statistical Methods. Pre-Term course work may help candidates prepare for the required comprehensive examination in international economics.

Eligibility for Two Pre-Term Courses

*Please note, students may take either English OR Economics and Statistics courses but not both due to overlapping schedules*

Taking two Pre-Term courses is very demanding and intensive. Therefore, students may take two courses during Pre-Term only if they have taken at least one of the courses previously, earning a minimum grade of "B-".

Another option for completing Pre-Term courses prior to matriculation is SAIS Summer Programs. SAIS offers evening courses over an eight-week term in June and July. Those who enroll in Microeconomics or Statistical Methods during SAIS Summer Programs 2013 may enroll in Pre-Term Macroeconomics at a reduced Pre-Term tuition rate of $600.

Summer coursework does count towards the 16 courses for graduation.

Math Preparation

Math plays an integral part in building the type of sound understanding of economics and quantitative reasoning you will be expected to develop as a SAIS student. All incoming SAIS M.A. students will receive access to an online course in Blackboard that will provide resources such as video tutorials, lessons, problem sets and quizzes to assist you in this preparation. Students are strongly encouraged to work through the material prior to their arrival at SAIS. By tackling these math skills, your experience at SAIS will be easier, more enjoyable and much more rewarding.

Students will be given access to the Blackboard site in mid-May if they have submitted their matriculation fees.

Note: Students taking economics in Pre-Term DC  must pass the math exams at the end of the online Blackboard course. TAs will be available during Pre-Term DC to assist those who need additional math support.
 

Economics Waiver Exams versus Pre-Term

Students with approved prior study in intermediate Microeconomics and/or intermediate Macroeconomics may be eligible to take the online waiver exam(s) offered by the International Economics Program prior to matriculation. Students can take these exams from anywhere in the world at no charge. Each exam may be attempted only once. Those who take the exams offered June 8- June 9, 2013, will find out the results in time to complete registration for Pre-Term, if interested.

Information about registering for these exams, as well as the content and suggested ways to prepare, is available on the International Economics Program Web site.

English

Non-native English speakers who were admitted to a SAIS degree program, but who have limited experience with English as a medium of instruction, are encouraged and in some cases required (if conditionally admitted) to take summer English language courses.

Non-native English speakers whose first language is not English must take the English proficiency exam upon matriculation. Taking Pre-Term English may be helpful in preparing for the proficiency exam.

Pre-Term English focuses on improving English language skills through development of writing and research skills at the intermediate and advanced levels. Pre-Term is considered a full-time course load. Students who enroll in Pre-Term English may not take additional course work.

Additional summer English training is available through the English course offered through SAIS Summer Programs from June 3 to July 25. This course hones speaking, reading, writing and listening skills to prepare students to communicate effectively in academic environments. Late registration is due by May 31, 2013.

Pre-Term information is subject to change without prior notice.