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UC Davis offers a comprehensive Economics program focusing on economic theory, data analysis, and real-world application. It is ideal for students aiming for careers in business, government, or further graduate study.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1–2
Students begin with ECON 1A (Introduction to Microeconomics) and ECON 1B (Introduction to Macroeconomics), paired with courses in calculus and statistics. This foundation builds core economic concepts and analytical skills.
Year 2–3
Intermediate courses such as ECON 120A (Microeconomic Theory) and ECON 120B (Macroeconomic Theory) develop deeper theoretical understanding. Econometrics and applied economics courses equip students for empirical research.
Year 3–4
Advanced electives include Public Finance, International Trade, and Behavioral Economics. A senior seminar or thesis project allows practical application of economics in real-world contexts.
Focus areas: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Public Finance, International Trade
Learning outcomes: Apply economic theory critically, perform quantitative analysis, conduct empirical research, communicate economic insights clearly
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited through UC Davis College of Letters and Science; prepares students for careers in diverse economic fields
Reputation (employability rankings): UC Davis economics graduates are well-regarded for strong analytical skills and versatility in business, policy, and research roles
UC Davis provides students with hands-on experience emphasizing agricultural and environmental economics.
Experiential learning includes:
Internships with local government and agricultural businesses.
Research projects focusing on sustainability and resource economics.
Training in data analysis software such as Stata and R.
Group projects addressing regional economic challenges.
Access to specialized research centers and labs.
UC Davis’s Bachelor’s in Economics combines strong theoretical knowledge with applied skills, preparing graduates for careers in economic analysis, finance, consulting, and policy development. Graduates typically work as economic analysts, financial consultants, policy advisors, and market researchers. Here’s how UC Davis supports students:
The UC Davis Career Center provides tailored advising, internship programs, job fairs, and networking events with regional and national employers.
Around 90% of graduates find employment or pursue further education within six months, with average starting salaries near $58,000.
UC Davis partners with California government agencies, agribusiness firms, and tech companies to provide practical internship opportunities.
The program is accredited by WASC, ensuring rigorous academic standards and a strong reputation.
Alumni succeed in a wide range of sectors including agriculture economics, finance, public policy, and consulting.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates often continue with master’s degrees in economics, business analytics, public policy, or law to advance their careers.
Test scores: ACT with Writing, SAT with Essay, TOEFL score of 550 on the paper-based , 213 on the computer-based TOEFL or 80 on the Internet-based, IELTS score of 7Economist – Analyze economic data and trends to advise government agencies private corporations or consulting firms on policy markets or business strategyInvestment Banking Analyst – Support capital raising mergers and acquisitions and financial transactions by building detailed financial models and conducting valuations at investment banksData Analyst or Data Scientist – Use programming languages like Python R and SQL and statistical techniques to analyze large datasets and provide actionable insights for business or policy decisionsActuary – Combine economics statistics and mathematics to assess and manage financial risks for insurance companies pension funds and financial service firmsManagement Consultant – Advise organizations across industries on operational efficiency market entry and strategic challenges to improve overall performanceFinancial Analyst – Evaluate company financial statements market conditions and investment opportunities to guide corporate finance portfolio management or banking decisionsPolicy Analyst – Research and assess public policies related to economics labor health or education for think tanks NGOs or government agenciesQuantitative Analyst or Econometrician – Apply advanced quantitative methods and econometric models to forecast economic outcomes and guide investment or policy decisionsCertified Public Accountant CPA – Provide auditing tax planning and financial consulting services combine economic understanding with regulatory compliance in accounting firms or corporationsEconomic Researcher – Conduct academic or applied research for universities government bodies like the Federal Reserve or Bureau of Labor Statistics or international organizationsMarketing Analyst – Analyze consumer data and market trends to optimize pricing strategies product launches and promotional campaigns for corporationsFinancial Risk Analyst – Identify and quantify financial risks in banking insurance or corporate finance to develop risk mitigation strategiesInternational Development Specialist – Work on economic development projects focused on poverty reduction trade or policy reform for international agencies like USAID or the World BankFederal Reserve Analyst or Central Banker – Support monetary policy economic research and financial regulation to promote economic stability and growth at regional Federal Reserve Banks or the Board of GovernorsEntrepreneur or Startup Founder – Leverage economic principles to build businesses especially in sectors like fintech healthtech or analytics-driven platforms
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University of California Davis
