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The study of economics is the study of choices. How should a society choose to allocate and distribute its resources? Which needs should have the highest priority, and which are less important? Economists study how people use their limited resources in an attempt to satisfy their unlimited wants. They create scientific models to explain why people behave the way they do, and use these models along with observations of the world to analyze and explain why things happen the way they do. Based on this knowledge, they propose solutions to problems that may at first seem surprising, but that prove to work well in practice. Economists work in all areas of government and industry, in positions ranging from stock market analysis to sports marketing and banking regulation.
Real World
Economics majors are well prepared to succeed in careers requiring both knowledge of financial concepts and keen analytical abilities. Graduates are working in all areas of business and government, including investment firms, congressional advisory committees, government regulatory agencies and business journalism.
Major Requirements
You will begin with a series of foundation courses in micro- and macroeconomics, statistics, and mathematics. At the upper division level, you will take two courses in economic theory, one course in either American or European economic history, and data analysis; you may then select from courses in areas of particular interest to you. These elective courses range from games theory to financial institutions and international economic development. A number of internship opportunities are offered, including the chance to spend a quarter working with government organizations in Washington, D.C. as part of the Davis-in-Washington program.
Major Adviser
Name: Diane Branam
Contact: advisors@econ.ucdavis.edu, (530) 752-0741
A Student Perspective
UC Davis' economics department is incredibly diverse. Course offerings include subjects from public policy analysis to money and banking. The flexibility of the major allowed me to tailor my schedule to my specific interests, and the opportunities outside the classroom let me make the most of my education. During my sophomore year, I spent a quarter in Washington, D.C. through the UCDC program interning for the Senate Finance Committee. My background in economics gave me the skills necessary to perform research and report on hearings for Committee staff. Next year, I will attend Oxford University to study for a master's degree in international relations. My background in economics and mathematics will help me stand out among the other students in my politics and international relations classes.
~ Lindsay Crawford, senior
A Faculty Perspective
As students in my International Trade class learn, the principles of economics impact international news and people's lives every day. The economics major teaches students to think about the functioning of the economy in a way that is useful in many contexts. Our students learn to think in a rigorous fashion about questions regarding the behavior of consumers, firms or the overall economy. The flexibility of the economics degree has prepared our students for positions in business, graduate study leading to an MBA, or careers in law, government and policy organizations.
~ Deborah Swenson, associate professor
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