Economics analyzes the ways in which societies decide what to produce, how to produce it, and who gets it. Because it deals with these fundamental issues of our material well being, it sheds light on the reasons why some societies, and some individuals, are rich and others are poor. At SDSU, economics majors will explore how producers and consumers make their decisions. Majors will also analyze the events that shape and result from these decisions, which are made by governments, businesses, and individuals. Inflation, unemployment, taxation, environmental and social policies, international exchange, and comparative economic systems are some of the topics studied by economics majors at SDSU.

Program Overview

Students may elect to take either the general economics program, or one of three specializations: emphasis in international economics, emphasis in pre-professional studies, and specialization in quantitative analysis. The emphasis in international economics is designed for students wanting to focus on international issues and who seek careers in international policy or in internationally oriented enterprises. The emphasis in pre-professional studies is designed for students interested in law school, business administration, health administration, or education administration. The specialization in quantitative analysis is designed for students wanting to go to graduate school in economics, or who seek a more rigorous quantitative background.

Career Opportunities

Many beginning positions in business and government are available to students with a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics. A graduate may find employment as a research, statistical, data, or pricing analyst. Federal, state and local government agencies employ economists to analyze public policy. There are management trainee positions with banking, finance, and research institutions.