The Master of Arts in Economics program is intended to prepare the student for a variety of applied analysis positions in both the private and public sectors.  Students develop a level of expertise in economic theory and quantitative methods appropriate to many positions in government and business. 

The MA may also serve as a prelude to more advanced graduate work.  Students endeavoring to teach in college and university are encouraged to apply to the doctoral program.

Admission policies are detailed in the 

  section of the Bulletin.

Degree Requirements

The MA in Economics is a 36-unit program.  The program requires that all 9 courses or 36 units be completed with an average grade point average of 3.0 (B) or better.  The program’s Student Handbook provides additional details.

Final Paper Portfolio.  All students are required to submit two papers to the program office.  One paper must be written during the student’s first semester in the program.  A second paper should represent the student’s best work and may come from any subsequent semester that the student is enrolled in the program.  Papers are used for accreditation reviews of the program.

University Policies.  University policies detailed in the Academic Policies  section of the Bulletin apply.

General Degree Requirements

Students considering a transfer to the PhD program should consult with their faculty advisor and the Program Coordinator before choosing their courses. These students (and students with a strong background in mathematics) may take the first-year PhD sequence.

Core Courses (8 units)

• ECON 302 - Macroeconomic Analysis I
• ECON 313 - Microeconomic Analysis I if needed OR ECON 316 - Consumer Theory and General Equilibrium

Quantitative Methods (12 units)

Choose one of the following options:

Option 1

• PP 481 - Quantitative Research Methods
• PP 482 - Advanced Quantitative Research Methods
• PP 485 - Qualitative Research Methods OR PP 487 - Applied Data Analysis

 

Option 2

• ECON 381 - Probability and Statistics for Econometrics
• ECON 382 - Econometrics I
• ECON 383 - Econometrics II

 

Electives (16 units)

Electives help students develop techniques that enhance a deeper and richer appreciation of the institutional contexts in which economic analysis must be conducted.  Course descriptions and outlines are available on the department’s web pages. Students should speak to their faculty advisor before choosing electives.