Dec 06, 2025  
2025-2026 General Catalog 
    
2025-2026 General Catalog

Economics, BA



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Economics teaches you to develop critical thinking skills and understand how people make decisions, how markets work, and how economic forces interact. The Economics program at Sonoma State University with a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) designation is structured to provide students with a rigorous foundation in quantitative and analytical skills essential for contemporary economic analysis. The STEM designation reflects the program’s emphasis on integrating advanced data analysis, statistical techniques, and mathematical modeling with traditional economic theory. Core areas of study include microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and specialized courses that employ quantitative methods to address complex economic issues. The program strongly focuses on applying statistical software, data analysis, and empirical research, equipping graduates with the technical competencies required in fields such as data science, finance, consulting, and public policy.

Career Possibilities

Economics majors can pursue a variety of careers including actuary, financial analyst, consultant, economist, and data scientist. If you looking for more career advice, please Watch ”A career in Economics … it’s much more than you think.“ from the American Economic Association (AEA).

Program Learning Objectives


  • Articulate an understanding of economic terms, concepts, and theories.
  • Identify subjective and objective aspects of economic policy.
  • Use both qualitative and quantitative reasoning to analyze social and economic issues.
  • Demonstrate an awareness of current and historic economic issues and perspectives.

Degree Requirements


See the “Degree Requirements ” in the University Catalog for complete details on general degree requirements.

General Education Requirements (43 units)

See the “General Education ” requirements in the University Catalog for information on General Education requirements. Some major requirements may double count for GE requirements.

Major Core Requirements


Electives (15-16 units)


To complete the major, students must complete four additional upper division ECON courses consisting of 15-16 units. These courses are in addition to the core requirements and should be selected in consultation with an advisor. Any additional 300 or 400 level ECON courses may meet this requirement except for ECON 497 or 499.

Units


Total GE units: 48

Total Major Core units: 32 (includes 9 units that also count for GE)

Major Elective units: 15

Elective units: 34 (must take American Institutions as part of their elective requirements)

Total Units Required for Graduation: 120

Double Majors


Students with majors in disciplines such as business, environmental studies, political science and mathematics will find that adding an economics major provides them with a breadth of background that is viewed favorably by graduate professional programs and employers. Students interested in any double major with economics should consult with their Economics Department advisor.

Graduate Work in Economics and Related Fields


Economics majors planning graduate work in economics, business, or public administration should take one or more courses of calculus and linear algebra, probability theory, ECON 404, ECON 405 and ECON 417. Consult with an advisor to plan accordingly. 

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