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The Bachelor of Science in Economics at Caltech offers a mathematically intensive and empirically focused education that blends economic theory with data-driven methods. Designed for students with strong quantitative aptitude, the program equips graduates to tackle complex economic problems across academia, finance, consulting, and public policy.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundations in Economics and Mathematics
Courses:
Ec 11: Introduction to Economics – Basic micro and macro concepts
Ma 1abc: Calculus and Linear Algebra – Core mathematical tools for economic modeling
Year 2: Intermediate Theory and Data Analysis
Courses:
Ec 121ab: Theory of Value – Microeconomic modeling
PS/Ec 172: Game Theory – Strategic interaction and decision-making
Ec 122: Econometrics – Empirical and statistical methods in economics
Year 3: Applied Microeconomics and Macroeconomic Growth
Courses:
Ec/Psy 108: Neuroeconomics – Behavioral intersections between psychology and economics
Ec 135: Economics of Uncertainty and Information
Ec 129 / Ec 130: U.S. Economic History or Economic Growth
Year 4: Specialization and Research
Advanced electives, often supplemented by coursework in math, political science, or CS
Independent research or senior thesis based on original investigation
Focus Areas:
Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Game Theory, Behavioral Economics, Economic History
Learning Outcomes:
Graduates are trained to:
Apply micro and macroeconomic models to real-world problems
Use econometric techniques to identify causal relationships
Analyse uncertainty, incentives, and strategic behaviour
Conduct independent and original research in economics
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
Offered by the Division of the Humanities and Social Sciences, the program aligns with Caltech’s institutional accreditation and rigorous scientific standards.
Reputation:
Known globally for its quantitative rigour, Caltech provides a unique economics education emphasising formal modelling and empirical analysis.
Experiential learning is embedded throughout Caltech’s Economics program, offering students a range of high-impact opportunities:
Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF):
10-week original research projects under faculty guidance, often culminating in publications or conference presentations.
Senior Thesis Projects:
Capstone experience requiring students to investigate complex economic issues independently and write a formal thesis.
The Linde Institute for Economic and Management Sciences:
Supports student research with funding, workshops, and access to data resources in empirical and applied economics.
OTTCP Summer Internship in Entrepreneurship:
Immerses students in Caltech’s tech commercialization ecosystem, focusing on innovation, startups, and business strategy.
Career Achievement, Leadership, and Exploration (CALE):
Offers advising, resume development, mock interviews, and internship placement services tailored to economics majors.
These experiential platforms ensure that students graduate not only with theoretical knowledge but also with practical research and policy skills applicable in top-tier industries.
Future Progression & Opportunities
Career Prospects:
Graduates are well-positioned for careers in:
Common Job Titles:
Economic Analyst, Data Scientist, Financial Analyst, Policy Researcher, Consultant
Career Support Services:
Employment Stats (Class of 2023):
44% secured full-time employment
Median starting salary: $110,000–$119,000
90th percentile: $150,000–$159,000
Graduate School Pathways:
Caltech Economics alumni frequently pursue further study in:
PhDs in Economics, Political Economy, or Quantitative Social Sciences
Master’s degrees in Finance, Public Policy, Business (MBA), or Law
Institutions attended include: Stanford, MIT, LSE, Harvard, and top European policy schools
Accreditation and Recognition:
Caltech’s global reputation for analytical and quantitative excellence provides long-term professional value and widespread academic recognition.
SAT/ACT Update: Either test is mandatory. Caltech will superscore your tests.SAT/ACT Score Reporting: When a student applies, they will be asked to submit all of their test scores, at which point Caltech will create a superscore to review the applicant. If a student is admitted and chooses to matriculate, the student will be asked to send official exam scores at that time.English Language Proficiency Tests: Duolingo or IELTS or TOEFLEssays Required - Common App Essay (650 words) - 9 Caltech Supplemental Essays (100–250 words each)Letters of Rec 2 required: - 1 from math/science teacher - 1 from humanities/social science teacherAcademic Prerequisites - 1 year of Calculus - 1 year of Physics - 1 year of Chemistry - 4 years of English - 1 year of History - 2 years of Foreign LanguageEconomic ConsultantMarket Research AnalystPolicy AnalystFinancial AnalystActuary
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California Institute of Technology
