Economics for Big Thinkers
As an economics student at the University of San Diego's Knauss School of Business, you'll expand your critical thinking skills by diving deep into topics like game theory, economic policy, financial economics and behavioral economics, among others. The economics major is a flexible one that gives you the opportunity to take electives and explore your interests.
Which major is the best fit for you?
Economics
Emphasizes behavior and the overall impact of human choices on decision-making. Students graduate with a Bachelor of Arts (BA).
Business Economics
Emphasizes the exchange of goods between people and companies. Students graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA).
A Growing Economy of Careers
While we can’t see the future, we can predict that you’ll go far by exploring the world of economics. As an economics major, you’ll advance your analytical skills and learn how to put theory to use — or who knows, you might even start your own business. See how our graduates have put their education to work.
Thrive at USD
Your Experience as an Economics Major
At USD, not only will you receive an enriching education with renowned faculty, but you’ll also join a community that nurtures your ideas in an unparalleled setting — beautiful, sunny, eclectic San Diego. Here are a few more unique experiences you’ll take part in as an economics major:
An Economics Curriculum Made for You
As an economics major, you'll become well-versed in topics like game theory, economic policy and financial economics. With fewer required business courses, economics majors also have the flexibility to define their academic path through electives that align with their interests. There are four major themes available within the major: Data Analytics, Financial Economics, Policy & Society and Economic Strategy.
Featured Classes
The economics minor
Focusing on economics can help give you an edge in critical thinking and econometric analysis. Consider the economics minor as another pathway to help you reach your career goals.
Tuition, Scholarships and Financial Aid
An Education That’s Worth It
Where you go to college is one of the most important decisions — and investments — you will ever make. At USD, your tuition investment will plug you into an innovation ecosystem that nurtures your ideas and an extensive alumni network that can connect you to your first job.
$61k
Tuition
per year
$3k
Textbooks and Supplies
per year
76%
Scholarships and Financial Aid
of students receive financial aid
A Range of Opportunities
With an economics major, there’s no limit to where you’ll go. Students in our program have worked as global project managers for companies like Adobe, analysts for Citigroup, and consultants at FactSet.
$59,925
Average Starting Salary of USD graduates
97.6%
of USD graduates received their first full-time offer within three months of graduation
Current Status
- Employed: 60%
- Furthering education: 20%
- Full-time service: 0%
- Military: 0%
- Seeking employment: 20%
- Not Seeking employment: 0%
Career Advancement
- Before graduating: 100%
- Within 3 months: 0%
- 4-6 months: 0%
- More than 6 months: 0%
Jobs You May Pursue
Policy Analyst
Considering public impact, a policy analyst researches issues such as healthcare, tax, energy, environmental and trade policy to recommend legislative solutions.
Market Research Analyst
By evaluating consumer demand and pricing strategies, market research analysts are vital members in understanding product sales.
Actuary
An actuary uses computer software (STATA/R) to analyze and determine the likelihood of insurable events like fires, deaths, illnesses and business failures.
Economic Consultant
Using analytical and research skills, an economic consultant identifies trends that will impact product introductions, expansions and investments for corporate clients.
Next Steps
Should We Make Things Official?
Throughout your time in our economics program, you’ll gain valuable critical thinking and analytical skills — skills that are highly desired by well-paying employers. So, let’s make it official.




