Welcome to Economics at SFSU

Prepare for an impactful career with a degree in Economics. Our program equips you with the tools to understand complex socioeconomic dynamics, analyze pressing societal issues, and drive positive change in the world.

SF State students walk outside the J. Paul Leonard Library, overlaid with economic charts, graphs and data visualization icons.

Whether you're passionate about addressing climate change, reducing income inequality, or shaping the future of work, an economics education from SFSU will empower you to make a difference.

Join our diverse community of learners and expert faculty as you develop crucial analytical skills, gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools, and prepare for a wide range of exciting careers. From data science to environmental economics, financial analysis to policy advising, our program opens doors to countless opportunities in the public and private sectors.

Stay connected with the SFSU Economics Department on LinkedIn: This is a community for current students, faculty, and alumni to share department news, events, professional development opportunities, and job updates.

Why Major in Economics?

Economics is the key to understanding the complex forces that shape our world. At San Francisco State University, our Economics program equips you with the tools to analyze wealth, poverty, growth, trade, money, jobs, and more – preparing you for a diverse range of careers and advanced studies.

As an Economics major, you'll gain insights into crucial global issues:

  • Examine the factors behind unemployment and inflation
  • Investigate why some economies flourish while others struggle
  • Analyze how international trade shapes local and global markets
  • Explore the role of financial systems in economic growth
  • Understand the impacts of economic policies on society

Our program goes beyond theory, providing you with practical skills highly valued in today's job market:

  • Economic modeling and data analysis
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Policy evaluation and decision-making
  • Understanding of market forces and financial systems
  • Proficiency in essential computer skills and economic software

Economics at SFSU offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application:

  • Apply economic theories to real-world scenarios
  • Analyze current economic trends and policies
  • Develop strategies to address contemporary economic challenges
  • Gain hands-on experience with industry-standard economic analysis tools

With an Economics degree, you'll be equipped to tackle some of the most pressing issues of our time:

  • Climate change and sustainable development
  • Income inequality and social justice
  • Technological disruption and the future of work
  • Global economic development and poverty reduction
  • Financial stability and crisis prevention

An Economics degree opens doors to a wide range of exciting careers:

  • Economic Analyst
  • Financial Consultant
  • Market Researcher
  • Policy Advisor
  • Investment Banker
  • Data Scientist
  • Environmental Economist

Whether you're considering an MBA, law school, or a Ph.D. in Economics, our program provides a solid foundation for graduate studies. Many graduate programs actively seek out Economics majors for their analytical skills and broad understanding of social and financial systems.

Our department, situated in the urban setting of San Francisco State University, offers:

  • A mix of students from diverse backgrounds and age groups
  • Evening classes to accommodate working students
  • Opportunities to share real-world experiences in class discussions

Our Programs

Top Employers

Economics graduates from SF State are in demand across government, finance, healthcare, and beyond. Listed below are some of the top employers who have hired our students and alumni for worthwhile internships and rewarding full-time roles.

AmazonFederal Reserve Bank of San FranciscoNike
Benefit CosmeticsGenentechPG&E
Bureau of Labor StatisticsHotwireS&P Global Mobility
California Department of JusticeKaiser PermanenteSan Francisco Unified School District
City and County of SF (Housing Authority)LendingClubU.S. Census Bureau
Etihad AirwaysLos Angeles County Sheriff’s DepartmentUnion Bank
Farmer’s InsuranceMetaWells Fargo
Two students wearing graduation gowns pose for a photograph
Accelerated Master's Program

SFSU Accelerated Bachelor's + Master's

Qualified students to earn both a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Master of Science in Quantitative Economics in just five years. This innovative 4+1 program allows students to begin graduate coursework during their senior year at undergraduate tuition rates, developing advanced skills in economic theory, econometrics, and quantitative analysis. With faculty guidance and research opportunities, graduates are well-prepared for careers in data science, government, financial services, policy analysis, and doctoral programs in economics and related fields.