The Undergraduate Program

Studying Economics is more than just learning about markets and competition; it’s about learning critical problem-solving skills and understanding how people, businesses, and governments make decisions.

Economics is a versatile and valuable degree that opens up a variety of exciting career paths such as:

Business Management : Learn how to make smart decisions about resources, market strategies, and operations – essential for running and growing a business.

Consulting : Use your analytical skills to help businesses and governments solve problems and improve their strategies.

Financial Investment : Dive into the world of finance by analyzing and predicting market trends to make informed investment choices.

Data Analysis : Use your statistical and econometric skills to analyze large datasets and uncover insights that can drive decision-making in various fields.

Policymaking : Work with governments or international organizations to design policies that aim to improve economic outcomes for communities and countries.

Research and Academia : Contribute to academic knowledge and public policy by conducting research and publicizing your findings.

If you’re curious about how the world works and enjoy problem-solving, a degree in Economics may be the perfect fit for you!

The degrees offered by the Department of Economics at UCSD all feature a strong analytical core combined with a broad selection of electives.

Students choosing one of our majors will receive a strong foundation in economic and data analysis, and by selecting elective classes in their preferred fields of specialization they will have the opportunity to craft their unique career preparation narrative.

Through our own dedicated Student Professional Development Office and our career preparation classes, students will be able to turn the knowledge and skills acquired in our classrooms into their desired career path.

Welcome from the Department Chair

Faculty

The faculty, whose research has led the Department to be ranked the 14th best department by the most recent US World and News Report , all teach undergraduate courses. Additionally, several faculty have written undergraduate textbooks including Kate Antonovics (with Robert Frank & Ben Bernanke) on the next edition of "Principles of Economics;" James Rauch (with Gerald Meier), "Leading Issues in Economic Development;" Ross Starr, "General Equilibrium Theory: An Introduction;" and Joel Watson, "Strategy."