2.8

Tom Lee

Economics - California State University - Northridge

2.8
Quality
3.7
Difficulty
31%
Would Retake
152
Reviews
2.8
Quality
3.7
Difficulty
2.8
Helpful
2.7
Clarity

31%

Would Retake

152

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

31

4

29

3

26

2

24

1

42

What Students Say

He's smart but a horrible professor

ECON311 - 2.0 rating

I did not like his teaching style at all

ECON411 - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

52%

Textbook Required

76%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B-

95% confidence
Based on 21 grades
Most common grades:
Rather not say (7)
B (5)
A (4)
Grade Distribution
A(5)B(6)C(5)D(2)F(1)A-/B+(2)
Based on 28 reported grades
Rather not say: 7
B: 5
A: 4
C+: 3
Common Tags
Skip class? You won't pass. (12)
Tough Grader (7)
LECTURE HEAVY (6)
GRADED BY FEW THINGS (6)
Lecture heavy (5)
Graded by few things (4)
TEST HEAVY (3)
Clear grading criteria (3)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.85 avg change
May
Apr
May
Apr
Jun
Apr
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

307307

5.0

(1)

MICROECONO

5.0

(1)

ECONOMICS

5.0

(1)

ECO310

5.0

(1)

ECONINTRO

5.0

(1)
+12 more courses
Difficulty by Course

ECON

5.0

ECON311

4.5

ECON411

4.3

ECON410

4.2

ECON308

3.8

Reviews (152)
5.0
3.0
310
Jan 17, 2003

No Comments

4.0
2.0
ECON310
Mar 4, 2003

No Comments

5.0
3.0
ECON310
Jun 30, 2003

No Comments

5.0
2.0
MICROECONO
Nov 10, 2003

This teacher is the only teacher ive ever met that teaches the way i like..he explains with clarity, with examples and with JOKES! i love his handouts and i loved the course..id take any class he teaches without a doubt

2.0
4.0
ECON308
Dec 1, 2003

No Comments

3.0
4.0
ECON308
Dec 23, 2003

I took his ECON 308. His lecture is full of examples to explain the stuff from the book, so it is easy to understand the contents. But tests are not easy. U re gonna have to study hard anyway.

5.0
2.0
ECON310
Mar 29, 2004

Clear lectures, and str8 to the point. Provides helpful handouts for midterms. Just memorize his lecture notes, and you'll do fine.

5.0
2.0
ECON308
Apr 27, 2004

Very Intelligent and great teacher, by far one of the best in the business department!!

4.0
4.0
ECON310
May 19, 2004

Don't take him if you are not an Econ major, hard tests, but will pass if memorize all his notes and def. need to study hard for a good grade. Good overall teacher but expects allot from students.

3.0
3.0
ECON310
Jun 8, 2004

main thing is to keep up with the lecture and draw the graphs accurately...and use the tutors especially the SI sessions in the student center...try to get good grades on the first to exams..to cushion the final..so suck it up and get those high scores!

4.0
3.0
310
Jun 21, 2004

Overall, Tom Lee is really nice professor and he is very confident in his knowledge. I would give 4.9 grade to him.

4.0
2.0
ECON160
Jun 23, 2004

just memorize the handouts and go to the lectures and youll do fine, i got a B

4.0
3.0
ECON161
Jul 12, 2004

he is very easy. the test are straght from the handouts. To pass the class you to attent class and study the review sheet. Very basic and straight to the point.

2.0
5.0
ECON308
Jul 31, 2004

Very hard teacher! He says the tests are only 4 questions but it is really 16. He grades on a weird curve. Even if you get A's on all your tests but aren't one of the top 5 students, you won't get an A. Pick a different teacher!

2.0
3.0
ECON161
Aug 27, 2004

Hard to understand his accent. You have to have a very good memory to take his class coz he makes u remember word for word definitions and they will be on the exams.

5.0
1.0
ECONOMICS
Sep 1, 2004

No Comments

1.0
1.0
ECON161
Sep 9, 2004

WHAT A HORRIBLE TEACHER!!! he is the worst, his exams are terribly hard and it is extra difficult to answer the way he wants you too, he will be comparing you to other students and he will not make things clear, he is the worst...

1.0
3.0
ECON308
Oct 1, 2004

Don't take him for managerial econ. He couldn't answer my questions because he doesn't know management!

5.0
1.0
ECON308
Nov 17, 2004

Thought he was a wonderful professor and has alot of valuable information to share for all management majors

5.0
4.0
ECON308
Dec 2, 2004

he gives lecture in the class and all the exams are taken for class notes. The exam is an essay question, so you should read it.He gives lots of interesting information, answer the questions that students have, and discussion.

5.0
3.0
ECON310
Dec 4, 2004

This class is not easy, but you learn a lot. Lee makes the class interesting by relating the material with everyday life. He simplifies the material by giving you handouts. Although it's a lot of info on the handouts, at least you know what's fair game. Study and you will pass without a prob.

4.0
3.0
ECON160
Dec 13, 2004

GREAT PROFESSOR BRILLIANT MAN! HIGHLY RECOMEND HIM FOR THIS COURSE! HE GIVES HANDOUTS TO STUDY! FAIR GAME! QUESTIONS ON TEST WERE ON DEFINITION SO NOT TO DIFFICULT!

5.0
3.0
ECON160
Dec 14, 2004

He tells you everything that will be on the exam ahead of time. You have to study (class handouts not the book), and if you understand the handouts, you will get an A on the test. Do not buy the book if you plan on going to class everyday.

4.0
4.0
ECON310
Feb 4, 2005

Lee is big on getting the definitions right. He does have good command of ECON and the class is helpful. Hated his comments on Politics though!

4.0
5.0
ECON310
Apr 18, 2005

His tests are really hard

4.0
4.0
ECON310
Jul 21, 2005

His explanations are clear, but this class requires itself require a lot of study. You can pass the class just by studying his handouts (which contain definitions) and his lecture notes (Graphs). The class is hard, but don't worry...he curves the grades.

5.0
2.0
ECO310
Aug 29, 2005

He is GREAT. His explaination is clear. I learn a lot from this class. The exams are not easy, but if you study it easy to get a B.

5.0
3.0
ECONINTRO
Aug 30, 2005

No Comments

3.0
5.0
ECON308
Sep 7, 2005

He's a good dude. cool, funny, knowledgable. But his (essay) tests are EXTRAORDINARILY HARD!!! You bomb one, you're SCREWED, he doesn't do extra credit.

5.0
4.0
ECON310
Dec 1, 2005

He's a funny guy and his lectures and examples are interesting. However, when it comes to exam time, u have to study hard and make sure you know all the definition that he typed for you in the hand out. For the graphs, just study hard and try your best (it's freaking complicated). He curves really nice though.

2.0
4.0
ECON310
Jan 16, 2006

No Comments

5.0
1.0
ECON310
Jan 20, 2006

Great Teacher! you will really enjoy the class!

1.0
4.0
ECON310
Feb 24, 2006

horible teacher he very hard to understand. If you don't get a good grade on the first exam forget about it!

2.0
4.0
ECON310
Mar 12, 2006

Very difficult to understand. He's not very interested in helping you during office hours. He practically doesn't want to hear your situation. He likes to have control of his class. He doesn't tell you where you stand in class so you have to guess how bad or how good you're doing.

1.0
5.0
ECON
Mar 21, 2006

No Comments

3.0
3.0
ECON161
Apr 1, 2006

good teacher he lectures. sometimes he will take notes on the board! He dyes his hair...haha...he is kinda hard to understand at times but its not that bad...he is a good teacher.

1.0
5.0
310
May 25, 2006

Horrible teacher, stay away!!he will not help and his classes are hard, he thinks too much of himself.. bad teacher!

5.0
3.0
ECON161
May 27, 2006

Lectures are very interesting. A lot of work for an A, but possible. Advice: study everything on the handouts (don't worry about his review question sheet), memorize definitions and you'll do fine. The best grades are 37-38 out of 40 on his exams (3 exams+10 page paper, no final), but he curves. Awesome professor!

3.0
2.0
ECON308
May 31, 2006

Piece of cake class, easy A. Has a deep accent, hard to understand. Just study his outlines inside and out and you will get an A.

3.0
3.0
ECON308
Jun 2, 2006

Very competitive, good luck getting an A. Got 35 out of 40 on each exam and still wasn't able to get an A. GO FIGURE!!

3.0
3.0
ECON161
Jun 10, 2006

His Tests are Essay! DONT BUY THE BOOK! He gives you handouts just study those because that is what he has in front of him whenhe makes the test. 2 midterm, a final and a 10pg paper. The paper is easy...basically re-write the right answers to your test (and it should make up 10 pgs. Its easy if you study hard. Go to class to get notes.

3.0
3.0
161
Jul 19, 2006

DO NOT BUY THE BOOK...he is an inteligent professor; however, he expects you to memorize A LOT for the essay exams even though he tells you exactly what will be on it. I liked him but he was tough.

5.0
3.0
ECON308
Jul 22, 2006

A very well educated professor! He is one with a lot of knowledge. he will teach you real world stuff, so you will have an understanding how economics is used in the real world. I learned a lot from this professor. He is funny too. Very clever. I would definitely recommend him.

4.0
4.0
ECON161
Sep 7, 2006

good professor, very knowledgeable, will learn a lot about important things you use in life. difficult to get a good grade. worked really hard and still got a B+.

5.0
3.0
ECON308
Nov 21, 2006

he made econ interesting. that's all i need to say!

5.0
3.0
ECON308
Jan 31, 2007

Interesting class!!! He made me realize what is going out out there. Very knowledgable. Study to pass the class.

3.0
5.0
ECON308
Apr 12, 2007

Very nice man. Very hard essay tests. Likes to talk about the subject matter. Heavy Korean accent, but understandable.

5.0
3.0
ECON308
Apr 29, 2007

Prof is fair in grading. Class attendance is mandatory if you want to get a good grade in class. A lot of class examples not in book but is are on exams. Take good notes. Recommend professor. Very nice and is very approachable.

2.0
4.0
ECON308
May 23, 2007

He is very difficult to understand. He speaks VERY fast and mumbles all the time with a heavy accent. His tests are also very hard. Good luck passing

1.0
5.0
ECON411
May 31, 2007

One of the worst econ teachers in the school!! the class was a waste of time! he doesnt make sense doesnt explain clearly and talks about unrelated stuff to much.

5.0
1.0
ECON308
Jun 1, 2007

People who do poorly in his class don't pay attention or go to class. He is insightful, if you take notes and learn them you will get A's on all tests. Great professor few like him.

4.0
5.0
ECON308
Jul 18, 2007

Very difficult grader. He sometimes contradicts the book while grading tests. Students would get questions marked wrong that were straight out of book.

3.0
4.0
ECON308
Jul 19, 2007

stupid professor...hey..prof lee..if you see this...screw u...u make all asians look bad!!!I worked hard in ur class

4.0
2.0
ECON307
Nov 13, 2007

Very easy go to class, take notes since the book is no use and study for midterms two days before then you As it.

1.0
5.0
ECON308
Nov 24, 2007

I'm an "A" senior student-failed my first test in his class! He's the worst teacher I've ever had. Doesn't make any sense. Can't understand his horrible accent and mumbles. Doesn't explain anything at all. Makes fun the students who do bad. Tests are very subjective. Dont buy book, waste of $. Dont use text examples-u will get the answers wrong.

2.0
3.0
ECON308
Nov 28, 2007

The course was not that difficult, but it was completely useless. I didn't learn anything because everything was straight memorization. I hated going to his class and trying to translate everything he said from Ingrish to English. He was not helpful at all, and DON'T BUY THE BOOK!!!!

4.0
3.0
ECON307
Dec 7, 2007

Class wasn't too bad. The big problem is that he grades on a curve...the bad kind of curve where everyone in the class competes. Do not buy the book, he gives handouts, which he explains in detail, and the tests are taken straight from them.

2.0
3.0
MKT307
Dec 12, 2007

tests are straight from notes. if you study and take notes in class, you can do well. the group project is not that hard. he graded us on the presentation, but didnt tell us. he is annoying. cant speak english, hard to understand. asks the class questions to get feedback, but then answers them himself to make himself look smart or something.

1.0
5.0
ECON308
Dec 16, 2007

Very hard class, too much to memorize in short period of time. Really bad accent, hard to understand. Essay format tests comes only from lectures, nothing is from the book. Don't buy the book, you won't need it.Don't take him!

4.0
2.0
ECON310
Dec 20, 2007

cute lil asain man.Interesting class, teaches well, but u must come to class 2 know wuts on test, he lectures w/real world examples. essay format tests(3) and one term paper on a given company,work with group of 5. I enjoyed class learned alot. Dont buy the book.

2.0
5.0
ECON311
Jan 3, 2008

His tests only have 4 or 5 essay questions. You will only get tested on those topics and you have to write a lot on them so if you studied everything except for those topics or you don't know much on them you will fail. Very hard grader.

2.0
3.0
ECON308
Jan 7, 2008

This guy is like a robot. You have to do what he says otherwise it is wrong. He cuts you off when you are trying to prove a point, can't speak English, and grades extremely hard! I'd still take him over Tontz though for this class. A Really bad teacher but not that hard of a class to pass. All you gotta do is remember his real world examples.

4.0
5.0
ECON307
Feb 6, 2008

He is a very good professor. His tests are not hard if you know the material and if you don't miss classes and mention the real world exmaples given in class.His mid terms are very straight foward! I am his fan, I love Dr. Lee!

1.0
5.0
ECON307
Mar 13, 2008

dont buy the book waste of money

4.0
5.0
ECON308
May 2, 2008

DO NOT BUY THE BOOK. He uses handouts for the tests. He has gotten some bad reviews, but I have to say he's a very nice man and extremely bright. he'll challenge you with his essay questions, but as long as you prepare you'll do fine. HE IS A GOOD PROFESSOR!!!!

2.0
4.0
ECON307
May 20, 2008

This guy is extremely lazy. There's no point in buying the textbook because he doesn't use it once! He just prints out notes, reads them out loud in class, and expects you to write 4 essays in 1 hour. The tests are extremely hard because there's too much material to study. This guy needs to retire or change his teaching habits. AVOID his class!

1.0
5.0
ECON311
Jun 2, 2008

This Professor is extremely difficult to understand. The only way I got a B is because I recorded his voice and spent hours attempting to decipher the accent. It is pointless to buy the book. If you must take this professor buy a digital recorder and prepare to put your time in.

3.0
3.0
ECON307
Jun 23, 2008

3 noncumulative midterms, one group project. attendance not manadatory, but his test are directly from lecture and handout notes. Dont buy the book. One major group project of about 5 people regarding a company he assigns you. need to present project and turn in 25 pg paper. He is a very laid-back relax guy and offers good news info.has a accent

3.0
3.0
ECON307
Dec 11, 2008

Go to his office hours and ask LOTS of questions. He LOVES that. Comments are generally accurate, but make an effort to do well in his class and he will LOVE YOU!!! P.S. DON'T TRY AND CHEAT ON TEH FINAL!!!!!! Someone did that in my class and the prof caught him and that person got suspension...

5.0
1.0
ECON307
Dec 12, 2008

BEST Econ teacher, yet! He is a very laid-back, nice and caring man. He is very understanding and will open his doors to anyone that needs help in his class. He truly stands out from the rest. VERY interesting class with tons of real world examples. Apply this to stuff you do outside school to improve on all aspects of business :-) It's rewarding!

2.0
5.0
ECON307
Dec 21, 2008

Avoid taking him at all costs. He doesn't teach you anything. For the project he only explains what he wants during his office hours and not in class. He expects every student to go to his office hours. He inconsistent with what he wants and with what he tells people. His tests are beyond hard and he never tells you your grade on anything.

1.0
3.0
ECON307
Dec 24, 2008

Lee is the worst professor I have had. Cannot understand what he says. Didn't learn a single useful piece of information. His class was the most useless class anyone can take. Tests (3) are memorization of handouts. Just terms and definitions. Class presentation and 25 page paper. Econ major, business minor. 3.7 GPA. Useless!!!!!!!

1.0
4.0
ECON307
Mar 24, 2009

Run fast and far from this eggroll. Worst in the COBAE program. All memorization, no improvisation. If you have nothing better to do than memorize the notes or learn inventive ways to cheat, take him. This is your final warning, RUN!!!

1.0
4.0
ECON307
May 12, 2009

Agreed, does not tell you anything about ur grade. I am recommending students do not take him. He is a real bonehead. Miles of study notes, rehearse to the "t". Please, find another elective. Stay away!If you do plan to stay, please learn Mandarin as well as Cantonese; English is not the medium used to teach this course. "A" students, you get a "D"

1.0
5.0
ECON308
May 12, 2009

this class is the worst class i have ever taken - i do not recommend this class to ANYONE. you cannot understand anything this man is trying to tell you in his lecture. DO NOT BUY HIS BOOK, you do not open it once. LECTURES ALL DAY and DOES NOT ANSWER QUESTIONS. you never know what your grade is... the worst class i have EVER taken.

1.0
5.0
ECON308
May 12, 2009

i jut finished this final exam and am so happy i will never see this devils face EVER again. he is the worst i have ever experienced and definitely have changed my views about CSUN professors. To this day, the last day of the semester, i DO NOT understand anything this man is talking about.. he mumbles his words and does not complete his sentences

1.0
5.0
ECON308
May 12, 2009

Mr Lee comes off as a nice little asian man, willing to help all the students in his classes. His lectures are unbearable, his vocabulary is worse than his lectures, his sentence structure is even worse than his lectures. the man needs to take english 101 before trying to teach upper Division econ. this is the worst csun experience i have ever had.

1.0
5.0
ECON308
May 12, 2009

STAY AWAY FROM THIS MAN AT ALL COSTS. THE ENTIRE CLASS WAS CONFUSED ABOUT EVERYTHING EVERYDAY IN THIS CLASS. VERY RUDE TO STUDENTS, MAKES YOU FEEL VERY STUPID, YOU NEVER KNOW YOUR GRADE. GIVES 6 HANDOUTS PER EXAM, YOU MUST MEMORIZE ALL MATERIAL ON ALL PAGES IN ORDER TO GET SOMEWHAT OF A DECENT GRADE. VERY UNFAIR GRADER. "A" STUDENTS GET "D's".WORST

3.0
5.0
ECON307
May 13, 2009

dont take this prof. he is the worst teacher i ever had. his exams dont make sense, he wants u to leran five single spaced handout word by word. on top of that the hall class dont understand a word of what he is saying.also dont even try to ask questions cause he will answer it vaguely or he will go out of subject.

1.0
5.0
ECON307
May 13, 2009

all i can say is. Lee is the worst teacher. hard grader, not understandable,memorize all 6 big handout word by word , and a project that he never explained. if u want to fail or have the lowest grade that we ever had take him.

1.0
5.0
ECON307
May 13, 2009

worst teacher, if u want to get a D take him. my GPA is 3.5 and never got a D untill i got this can even say professor cause he doesnt deserve to be one.

1.0
5.0
ECON307
May 13, 2009

Hard to understand his accent. You have to have a very good memory to take his class coz he makes u remember word for word definitions and they will be on the exams.

1.0
5.0
ECON308
May 20, 2009

Mr. Lee's class was the worst experience i have ever had at CSUN. i have a 3.70 GPA and i received an F in this course. He is very unfair, and moreover - UNCLEAR. you do not understand anything this jerk is saying and his grading is extremely unfair and confusing - goodluck if you simply mispell a word on a test. STAY AWAY FROM THIS PROFESSOR!!!!!

1.0
5.0
ECON307
May 21, 2009

Wow, nothing learned here. Just a bunch of "real world" advice from someone who seems to have some patriotism issues. He's always talking trash on "Americans." No book, just his "Handouts" that you have to MEMORIZE for each of his 3 exams. He has you memorize everything because his exams are all essay style. 1 major project.

3.0
2.0
ECON307
May 26, 2009

The other reviews are accurate but I thought the class was pretty simple. I NEVER went to class, just collected the hand-outs the period before the exam and memorized them. group project sucked but you don't have to go to class and you know exactly whats on the exam. I got a B and only studied the nite before the exams, but I have a good memory

2.0
5.0
ECON307
Nov 11, 2009

You will have to memorize 6-7 pages, WORD for WORD!! for each of the three exams. You will not be able to ask a q in class, his answer will be about something entirely off topic, as he does not let you finish a sentence. He is a very unfair and hard grader. The only + is the class attendance +book are useless! Insults students, thinks he's GOD

3.0
5.0
ECON308
Dec 9, 2009

Prof Lee is disinterested and marking time until he retires. Re relies entirely on handouts and lecture. The textbook is not used at all. It is all rote memorization - 3 of this 7 of that-there is no thought or learning. Take it if you must, you can get the grade, it is just no learning experience. btw- he also poses as a student and posts comments

3.0
3.0
ECON307
Dec 12, 2009

He is a very nice guy. He is a little hard to understand. Gives you lots of definitions to remember so study for exams. Talks alot, usually for hours straight.

4.0
1.0
ECON307
Jan 11, 2010

The key to getting an A in his course is memorizing the handouts. YES, they are alot of handouts(about 5/test) but its much of the material is common sense. Also it helps to go to class and take not for the "real world examples" (you can use the same ones on the test). Just memorize with time (4 or 5 days) slowly and you'll be okay!

2.0
5.0
ECON310
May 10, 2010

DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT take Lee for 310. It is nothing but memorizing graphs and complex equations word for word. The highest grade on our class midterm was a 16/40 which says how clear he is. HORRIBLE class, didn't learn anything. Take Tontz instead.

4.0
2.0
ECON307
May 13, 2010

I took him way back in 2008 but I noticed all the bad comments and had to comment here. The guy is a bit hard ot understand, and always talks about Lexus and Las Vegas. He is fairly helpful, though, and the class is not as hard as half the people here claim. Just do a little studying (God forbid!). He's a pretty nice dude

4.0
5.0
ECON310
Mar 15, 2011

Dont need text book!!! here's the bottom line btw the ppl that love/hate him...your basically competing against the class to get the highest grade! memorize the handouts n the meaning behind everything in the handouts and I guarantee u that u'll get a good grade. just make sure u know more than ur neighbor & u'll be fine.

5.0
2.0
307307
Nov 9, 2011

I usually relay on this site to help me pick my classes but for this Time despite the "u can't understand him" comments I took professor lee anyways. And I can say he is one of the best professors. Lectures are interesting, mid terms are not hard, he's very helpful, and you CAN understand him. I would recommend him to anyone.

4.0
3.0
ECON307
Dec 22, 2011

This class is not very hard. 15 total handouts, 3 exams. Everything is right from the handouts, but do take lecture notes, because he does go into detail about items on the handout. Overall he is not hard to understand, but a few times you may have to ask him to repeat some things. Overall great class of marketing from a different perspective.

4.0
4.0
ECON307
Dec 22, 2011

This professor is great because he only tests on materials covered in class. You don't need the book, just pay attention to everything he says.

5.0
2.0
ECON307
Dec 23, 2011

He is a great professor. Prior to starting the class, I thought "Great, another boring professor who I won't be able to understand." That is NOT the case. He speaks clearly (although sometimes quietly). No textbook, 1 easy term paper, and 3 tests. He gives you handouts but you should take more detailed notes if you wanna do well on the tests.

4.0
3.0
ECON307
Jan 16, 2012

He is a typical ECON professor. No books needed and he gave handout. You need to go to class and take notes(examples).I only study before the test. Recite all the materials (5 handouts per test)word by word and I got an A.

3.0
5.0
ECON311
May 29, 2012

Tough, hard to understand, but very good if you get into it. I took perfect notes after getting a 70 on his first test, and got A's on his next two. Everyone knows him as the toughest Econ professor, but he is fair and knowledgeable. Avoid if you're just trying to pass, but take if your interested in the Money/Banking stuff.

1.0
5.0
ECON311
Jun 25, 2012

If you survive this class you should be given the medal of honor. For an economics major the topics in this class are highly important but Lee is a hardcore professor. You can expect to have 30-40 page study guides for each exam and you have no idea what you will be tested on. Also you will need a voice recorder and be ready to put in serious work.

4.0
3.0
ECON311
Jul 1, 2012

Professor Lee's class is not hard at all, take good notes, i used a recorder, be on time! or else you will miss like two pages of notes! Study your notes for the two midterms and final. If you don't understand you can pull it off by just memorizing, but keep in mind it's a lot easier to remember when you understand the material, ask him questions!

5.0
4.0
ECON311
Jul 12, 2012

I am not an A student, and pulled off an A with flying colors. Prof Lee is a great/smart teacher and really knows how to teach econ! ive had him twice now and i am taking him again. JUST PUT IN STUDY TIME AND ATTENDANCE IS MANDATORY. Regardless of the comments, he is a good prof.

2.0
3.0
ECON307
Dec 11, 2012

If you're ok with written tests take him, he's not very clear when he talks. Sit in front and record him. He passes hand out take good notes and don't miss the class. A bit effort will give you an easy A.

1.0
4.0
ECON307
Dec 20, 2012

By far the worse professor I have taken in 2 years. This guy is arrogant and only his voice matters. If he asked "What color the sky?" and you reply Blue, he would answer no its orange and red at sunset. If you said red and orange, he would say "No, its Blue". No matter he has to be right and puts others down in class. BEWARE! Me: 3.75 GPA

4.0
1.0
ECON308
May 24, 2013

Wonderful professor. He is definitely challenging, but if you're looking to gain a good sense of knowledge of the economics and financial world, take him. He gives real life examples and those are great to talk about outside of the classroom.

2.0
5.0
ECON308
May 29, 2013

Hardest class I've taken so far. Expect to memorize at least 10 pages of typed notes per exam. 3 exams 1 term paper. Grades harshly. Don't bother buying the book coz he'll mark you off if you write definitions from it. Only his lectures and examples matter, so write down everything that he says. Record him if you need to because he mumbles a lot!

5.0
5.0
ECON308
Jun 6, 2013

Attendance is a MUST; if there is any class you do not want to miss, this is it. However, I don't seem to understand why students complain about him. If you want an easy A, stay away from him. If you want to learn A LOT, take him. End of story.

5.0
3.0
ECON308
Jun 10, 2013

You will learn an ample amount of information based on the financial and economical world in his class.

2.0
5.0
ECON
Jun 29, 2013

The book for this class is useless, don't even bother buying it. the professor gives out 16 handout throughout the semester that's what you use to study for the midterms Tests are essay format , so you really have to know what you are talking about. 1 paper 2500 words-which consists of the 2 previous mid term questions -you have to re answer them.

2.0
5.0
ECON410
Oct 3, 2013

This class was extremely confusing- not only does he refuse to use anything from the book, he also speaks so quietly that it is difficult to even follow what is going on.

5.0
5.0
ECON411
Dec 11, 2013

It's a very good class and very rewarding, as long as you're willing to put in a lot of work. Prof. Lee is a smart man and knows a lot about the subject matter. The subject matter is difficult and the workload can get high, but at the end you will learn a lot about the quote-unquote real world.

2.0
4.0
ECON307
Dec 21, 2013

I always loved econ, until now. I work full time, take care of my sick mom, & am in school full time. I'm also an honors student who focuses on studying. I failed. He was accommodating to some students, yet unhelpful to others. DON'T buy the textbook & when he asks for examples on the test, ONLY give what he has given in class. NEVER miss a class!

2.0
3.0
ECON307
Grade: B+
Jan 13, 2014

Professor Lee passes out 5 handouts prior to each written exam. The exams are questions that ask you to recall information from these handouts. If you want to pass this class, study the handouts front and back. Show up to class take quick notes of the examples he talks about. Otherwise, this class is ridiculously boring. Wouldn't recommend it.

4.0
3.0
ECON308
May 17, 2014

Lee is probably the smartest prof I've had in my time at CSUN. He's tough, but if you're willing to put in the work it can be a rewarding and interesting class.

2.0
3.0
ECON307
Grade: C+
Jun 20, 2014

If you want to pass this class you better come to every class, take really good notes and memorize! He does not use a textbook, he uses a handout with terms. He gives specific definitions and specific examples. You must use HIS examples. 3-5 pages to memorize. He does not give homework. Grade is based on exams and in-class essay.

3.0
5.0
ECON
Grade: D
Aug 25, 2014

YOU MUST GO TO EVERY CLASS. NO EXCEPTIONS. The textbook is useless, the questions are short essay form, and he gives you half credit for examples from the book. He is a really nice guy, he just likes you to answer is specific way.

3.0
4.0
ECON311
Grade: B
Dec 20, 2014

The class is ranked so your grade depends on your ability to pick up the material against the other students. 3 exams 1 term paper. Start studying a week before exam date as there is plenty of material to learn on the handouts he gives. Class is tough but easily passable. Median for exams was 2040

2.0
5.0
ECON311
Grade: C-
Jan 9, 2015

Dr. Lee ruined my life; before his class I had a 3.5 and loved econ, and now hearing the words "coupon bond" give me PTSD. Dr. Lee doesn't use the book and he'll teach you literally 150 different things and then he'll give you a 4 question short answer test. You actually have to study to fail, and you have to write everything he says in lectures

4.0
3.0
ECON411
Grade: A-
Jan 20, 2015

Dr. Lee is very nice and lectures are clear, not many from the book but whenever you took note and prepare before the tests you will get at lease a B+. I didn't do very well on other classes but always on his. Don't skip class and please take notes, notes are very important for tests.

2.0
5.0
ECON410
May 9, 2015

This class can easily be titled Calculus Economics. You will have a very hard time in the class if you do not have prior calculus experience. He is a very smart professor and if you put in the hours of work needed to even pass this class, then you can gain a lot knowledge from the class. By far one of the hardest classes I have ever taken.

3.0
2.0
ECON410
May 20, 2015

If you want to be prepared for grad school in economics take this course. Many people complained about the difficulty of math in the course. It honestly is mostly conceptual and if you don't understand it just memorize. Most of the topics in the course are easy to understand and the first and final exam are easily passable. Not a cake course!

4.0
1.0
ECON307
May 20, 2015

Show up to get the handouts. Read them at least once a day and by the time the test rolls around you'll score very high very easily. This class was the easiest out of all my econ courses. You must however be willing to show up and get the examples he provides else you may have points docked off. I repeat very easy course to get a good grade in.

1.0
5.0
ECON311
Grade: F
May 21, 2015

Average grade B-? That's a lie. He told us in class, "70% of you are failing". If 70% of us are failing, maybe it's not us with the problem. Can't speak English, grades arbitrarily. If you don't use his examples, you apparently didn't learn a thing. Says to study handouts but all they have are cookie cut terms, no definition. Worst prof on campus.

1.0
1.0
ECON307
Grade: A
Jun 22, 2015

All you have to do is write down anything pertinent to his worksheets from his lectures. This class is literally memorization & regurgitation. I got a perfect on the last two tests & remember nothing. He has the worst communication skills of any human. This guy has no professional experience whatsoever. Memorize everything 2 days before & easy A.

3.0
3.0
ECON308
Grade: C
Dec 20, 2015

Show up to class, follow his handouts & take notes to pass. Remember his examples! Info on the exams are from his lectures & the handouts. 4Qs on each exam. MGT majors will learn more in his class than any other class. He's a bit hard to understand but he's worth the take if you actually want to learn something.

4.0
4.0
ECON307
Grade: B
Dec 23, 2015

Professor Lee is a really smart and funny guy. There will be 3 exams and 1 ten page paper based on the exams. His lectures are straight out of the handouts he gives, which comes out to 15(5 handouts per exam). The exams are pure memorization, so you should read and memorize the handouts a couple of days in advanced. Fun class!

4.0
5.0
ECON311
Grade: A
May 23, 2016

Prof. Lee structures his class in a really hard way. The grading is unclear because it goes by ranking and not necessarily points. You will have 3 exams all worth 30%, and a paper that is worth 10%. Attendance is not mandatory, but is necessary to pass, and there is no homework or extra credit. Show up, take lots of notes, study and you'll be fine.

3.0
4.0
ECON308
May 27, 2016
Would take again

There were three tests, 2 midterms and a final. There is one term paper, which is just a paper that includes corrections made to the 2 midterms. I recommend going to class, get every handout and write down examples he mentions on handout terms. If you memorize everything on the handouts and have real world examples for terms you can ace tests.

1.0
5.0
ECON411
Grade: Rather not say
Nov 15, 2016
Wouldn't take again

If you are planning to take ECON 410 & 411 with him, then take my advice and stay away from him. I did not like his teaching style at all. Soft spoken with an accent. midterms and finals are rocket science. Good luck ;)

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
4.0
ECON311
Grade: B-
Dec 28, 2016
Wouldn't take again

My oh my, Dr. Tom Lee. A very knowledgeable professor. Everything he mentioned about politics and economics seemed so right and intelligent. I received a B- but should have and could have done better. You will pass as long as you go to class, record his lectures, listen to them again and take notes. You have just three tests, don't mess it up

Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
3.0
ECON308
Feb 19, 2017
Wouldn't take again

It is so hard to understand what he says during his lectures... horrible

Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
3.0
ECON311
Feb 28, 2017
Would take again

Warning.... from Day (1) of any class you take with him bring a recorder with a great mic! This sums up all the bad reviews for him. If he is the only professor that fits your schedule, then follow the above. Take the class and bring a recorder and don't be afraid to ask questions. He is a horrible TEACHER. But a very smart PROFESSOR big diff.

Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
4.0
ECON307
Grade: Rather not say
May 17, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Horrible accent, can barely understand. I don't even think he knows exactly what he is talking about. No book at all just handouts, tests are complete memorization. No learning required. Oh and use his examples because if he doesn't know about your example its wrong. what a clown, if you're going to use examples get some that are relevant.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
5.0
ECON410
Grade: B
Jun 18, 2017
Wouldn't take again

I do not have a problem with the difficulty of his class. I did pass his class, and I like to challenge. But I don't like his teaching style, personal talk and opinions (I don't care about his opinions), and an accent. It is hard to understand what he says, but his exams are heavily based on his lecture. No textbook use.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
5.0
ECON311
Grade: C+
Jun 23, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Never miss a class. Write down everything he says and memorize it. Pretend that you are enjoying his lecture. That's all I can say because you must take his class at lease once if you are econ major at csun.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
ECON410
Grade: Rather not say
Jul 17, 2017
Wouldn't take again

His exams are pure memorization. He has no real life experience. Cannot tell too much details here because it will be deleted. He seems cool and funny, but he is NOT.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
4.0
ECON411
Grade: Rather not say
Jul 17, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Too much personal talking. He sometimes spend entire class for talking about something completely irrelevant with course material. I know a lot of successful business people personally, and I don't find him smart at all. He is very emotional. I have to take his class again. Now I try to think this is what CSUN is.

5.0
4.0
ECON308
Grade: A
Jul 27, 2017
Would take again

Dr lee is very knowledgeable and experienced professor. He provides real world examples and is straight forward on how he grades. The class is hard in that you have to pay attention to his lectures. Their are no surprises in the exams either. Everything that is in the exam is something that he went over in the lecture. Very good professor.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
4.0
ECON411
Grade: B
Jan 13, 2018
Would take again

3, 15 page papers for the whole course all examining an anti-trust case. Case will be given one week before due date, except term paper. No need for book, all info from lecture and handouts. I did papers night before they were due and got a B in the class. Just outline them and youll be fine easy class if writing comes naturally to you.

Tough Grader
Tests? Not many
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
2.0
5.0
ECON311
Grade: C+
Mar 17, 2018
Wouldn't take again

If you are a visual listener, bring a recorder to class because he talks for the most part. His exams are essay based 4 questions, but follow directions and use real examples when asked to explain. His lecture is boring, but don't miss class because he doesn't use PowerPoint. He's smart but a horrible professor.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
5.0
ECON310
May 17, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Horrible teacher. terrible accent. exams are based on lectures, good luck with understanding him.. Low knowledge and at the same time very very confident. brags about his family and his past. All you see is a guy laying on a table instead of setting on a chair.

1.0
5.0
ECON308
Jun 8, 2018
Wouldn't take again

He Doesnt know how to teach. Soft voice. Terrible accent. Talks about his personal opinions too much. Needs to learn how to act professionally

Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
ECON308
Grade: D
Jun 25, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Worst class I ever took. His class is based on 3 test and one essay. His test are 4 essay questions where you have to list everything you know in order to pass. Barely anyone in this class did well. On one test the class average was a 14/40 and he thought it was our fault and not his poor teaching skills. All he does in sit on his desk and talks.

TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
4.0
ECON307
Grade: A+
May 8, 2019
Would take again

He does a well job on treating his students like adults by welcoming discussion more than the lecture, but he's not a good listener. Recording lectures is ideal to not miss any 'real life examples' as they are critical for exams. 3 exams & each covers about 5 handouts. Be ready to memorize things word for word. + 1 term paper (extremely easy)

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
5.0
5.0
ECON311
Grade: A
May 21, 2019
Would take again

Must use the right strategies to study this class. If you are not a good note taker, bring audio recorder. Make flashcards for define terms. Don't wait until the last day to study where it took me 35 separate days to absorb the materials. Make 1 to 2 sentences summary on each topics. I really liked the examples he provided. Stay strong and GL

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Inspirational
1.0
4.0
ECON311
Grade: Rather not say
Dec 11, 2019
Wouldn't take again

You just have to memorize useless stuff. Rude, Terrible accent and not clear.

5.0
4.0
ECON308
May 3, 2020
Would take again

Dr. Lee is one of the greatest professors CSUN has to offer. People complain that he is too hard and rude but realistically those are the people who dont pay attention. As long as you show up, pay attention and stay off your phone for a hour or 2 the exams are literally based off the notes. Very caring and always willing to help! Great guy!

Gives good feedback
Clear grading criteria
Caring
1.0
4.0
ECON308
Apr 27, 2021
Wouldn't take again

He is a smart man but I don't think he realizes that he is a teacher. The class requested feedback on our papers, but he shook his head and said we need to figure it out on our own. No powerpoint. He only talks to us the whole time. Two 10 page papers decide your grade. And he's a tough grader. Get another professor if you want to learn and/or pass

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
3.0
ECON308
Grade: B
May 4, 2021
Wouldn't take again

He graded us on two papers, gave us the topics one week before they were due, and failed everyone except two. He has been reported to the dean by numerous students. He is older, doesn't use canvas at all, barely uses zoom, and ridicules students who ask questions in class. Avoid at all costs unless you want you GPA to take a nosedive.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
3.0
ECON410
Grade: Rather not say
Apr 1, 2022

Not professional at all. Too much personal talking and stuff

Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
ECON311
Jun 6, 2022

He is the worst professor at CSUN. stay away from him. 3 exams and 1 term paper. Never gives study guide or topics.

1.0
5.0
ECON308
Grade: Rather not say
Jun 16, 2022

I took this class thinking it would be easy since there was no homework. I was completely wrong, this was easily the worst class I have ever taken. Teacher just sits and talks the whole class and he wants you to use the examples he gives in class on the exams. Do not take this class unless you want a f on your transcript, only 10% of students pass.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
3.0
4.0
ECON308
Apr 5, 2023
Would take again

A lot of people complained about this class but it wasn't toooo bad. Very very lecture heavy. Professor just sits at front of class and lectures the whole time. Taking extensive notes is key to passing this class. Two midterms, a final, and one super easy term paper. Exams are all essay questions based off of the lectures. Study!!!

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

52%

Textbook Required

76%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B-

95% confidence
Based on 21 grades
Most common grades:
Rather not say (7)
B (5)
A (4)
Grade Distribution
A(5)B(6)C(5)D(2)F(1)A-/B+(2)
Based on 28 reported grades
Rather not say: 7
B: 5
A: 4
C+: 3
Common Tags
Skip class? You won't pass. (12)
Tough Grader (7)
LECTURE HEAVY (6)
GRADED BY FEW THINGS (6)
Lecture heavy (5)
Graded by few things (4)
TEST HEAVY (3)
Clear grading criteria (3)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.85 avg change
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Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

307307

5.0

(1)

MICROECONO

5.0

(1)

ECONOMICS

5.0

(1)

ECO310

5.0

(1)

ECONINTRO

5.0

(1)
+12 more courses
Difficulty by Course

ECON

5.0

ECON311

4.5

ECON411

4.3

ECON410

4.2

ECON308

3.8

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