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UCSB’s BA in Economics combines rigorous economic theory with empirical research skills, preparing students for careers in business, public policy, or graduate studies. The program emphasizes critical thinking and data analysis in real-world economic contexts.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1–2
Students begin with ECON 1 (Principles of Microeconomics) and ECON 2 (Principles of Macroeconomics), alongside calculus and introductory statistics. These courses lay the foundation in economic reasoning and quantitative skills.
Year 2–3
Intermediate courses include ECON 100A (Microeconomic Theory) and ECON 100B (Macroeconomic Theory), enhancing understanding of economic models. Students also study ECON 120 (Econometrics) to develop empirical analysis capabilities.
Year 3–4
Advanced electives cover areas such as Public Economics, International Trade, and Behavioral Economics. A senior thesis or capstone project integrates theory and empirical methods, encouraging independent research.
Focus areas: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Public Economics, International Trade
Learning outcomes: Critically evaluate economic issues, apply quantitative methods, conduct independent research, communicate effectively
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited within UCSB’s College of Letters and Science; prepares students for competitive graduate programs and careers
Reputation (employability rankings): UCSB economics graduates are recognized for strong analytical skills, with excellent opportunities in academia, government, and industry
UCSB encourages experiential learning through research, data analysis, and internships with an emphasis on social and environmental economics.
Experiential learning includes:
Research assistantships with faculty on economic and environmental projects.
Internships with local agencies and nonprofit organizations.
Training on econometric software like Stata and R.
Participation in the Economics Club and speaker series.
Group projects on policy analysis and sustainability issues.
UCSB’s BA in Economics equips students with strong analytical and critical thinking skills, preparing them for careers in economic policy, research, finance, and business consulting. Graduates often work as economic analysts, financial advisors, policy researchers, and business consultants. Here’s how UCSB supports your future:
The Career Services Center offers specialized support including internship placement, career counseling, and employer networking focused on economics and related fields.
Approximately 90% of graduates are employed or pursuing further education within six months, with average starting salaries around $60,000.
UCSB has partnerships with local industries, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations providing real-world internship and research opportunities.
The program is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), ensuring high academic standards.
Alumni succeed in diverse sectors including finance, public policy, academia, and technology.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates often pursue graduate studies in economics, public policy, business, or law to broaden their career options.
Complete UC application, Unofficial transcripts from all high schools and colleges/universities attended, A letter of intent, Letters of recommendation (Optional), Test scores: SAT scores- SAT Math (660-790), Reading (640-760), Writing (650-780), ACT Composite Score (27-33), IELTS, TOEFL, A minimum GPA of 3.0Economist – 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 Santa Barbara
