Overview

The Department of Economics is home to over 2,000 undergraduate students and offers two majors: Economics (BA) and Economics & Accounting (BA).

Students of both majors will be prepared with a thorough understanding of Economic Theory, problem solving and analytical skill sets that apply to careers in many different fields. The Economics & Accounting major additionally provides accounting and financial management courses to prepare students for the CPA exam.

Advising Services

The undergraduate advising office operates on a walk-in basis.  Our drop-in hours are Monday - Friday, 9:30am-11:30am and 1:30pm-3:30pm. Please note that Friday drop-ins are via Zoom only.  We are currently using QLess to have students enter a queue and be summoned to meet with an advisor.  Students can "join the line" from anywhere on campus via this link and will receive a text message once it is their turn for an advising session.  Students must indicate on QLess whether they would like to meet with an advisor via Zoom or in person at North Hall 2121.  While we encourage all students to attend drop-in advising, those with lengthy advising inquiries can make an appointment with an advisor via Shoreline.

All advising inquiries can also be sent via email to ugrad@econ.ucsb.edu. An advisor will return your message within 2 business days.

Opportunities for Undergraduates

The Department offers a number of resources to help students succeed in the major. Students are encouraged to enhance their undergraduate experience by:

• Participating in Economic research
• Exploring student-run organizations to gain research and career opportunities
• Visiting the Academic Advising or Career Connection office for guidance regarding the major and career opportunities
• Studying Economics abroad

To learn more about opportunities within the major and tracking one’s degree progress, please visit the Prospective/Current Students pages.

Why Study Economics

Economics can be broadly defined as the study of human behaviors aimed at finding solutions to help improve peoples' lives. A degree in economics doesn't have to be about finance, banking, business, or government. It can lead to many interesting and fulfilling career choices.

Watch the video "A career in Economics . . . it's much more than you think" presented by the American Economic Association to hear the perspective of four individuals offering insights on how economics can be a tool for solving very human problems.