M.A. in Economics

The Masters Program prepares graduates for research and policy positions in government and business. Our teaching and research stress the importance of markets and institutions on political and socioeconomic outcomes. Although this program emphasizes general economics, it also guides students in the rigorous preparation necessary for doctoral programs.

Please refer to the Economics Catalog for details and specific course descriptions.

Core Courses (16 units)

Additional Courses (12 units)

• Approved 100- or 200-level courses.
  
  Courses may be at undergraduate level or outside of the department by pre-approval of Economics Graduate Advisor or Chair**

Culminating Experience (1 unit)

• ECON 298E - Special Study Comprehensive Exam (1 unit)***
• One additional Economics Elective (3 units)

32 Total units  

* Students must complete ECON 201 and ECON 202 (or ECON 235) with a grade of "B" or better. Students earning less than a B in any of these classes are allowed one attempt to retake and achieve the minimum grade.

** Students must not earn less than a B on any undergraduate course. Students earning less than a B in any undergraduate course are allowed one attempt to retake and achieve the minimum grade. (This does not apply to undergrad courses that are not re-taught within one year).

*** As an alternative to taking the Comprehensive Exam, the Department of Economics also offers a Thesis option, which is available to students who are in the M.A. program. 

• Internal Advising Form - MA [pdf]
• Suggested Schedule - MA [pdf]

• Comprehensive Masters Exam Information

For graduate student advising, please see our Advising page.