Economics · California

Economics colleges in California

CampusPin lists 301 U.S. colleges in California that offer Economics programs. Compare tuition, acceptance rate, and enrollment in the table below, every figure links back to the institution's official IPEDS data.

Economics studies how individuals, firms, and governments allocate resources, combining theory with empirical analysis and a strong mathematical foundation.

Schools in California that offer Economics

Economics programs in California: by the numbers

A quick comparison of the 50 schools (of 301 total) listed above, drawn from each institution's published IPEDS data.

Schools listed

301

Public / private

21 / 29

Universities / 2-year

39 / 11

Cities represented

41

In-state tuition range

$1,104–$63,255

Median in-state tuition

$12,118

Figures reflect the schools currently listed and each institution's most recent reported data. Verify current tuition and admissions details with the school before applying.

What you'll study in a Economics program

  • Microeconomic theory
  • Macroeconomic theory
  • Econometrics (regression, time series, causal inference)
  • Calculus, linear algebra, probability
  • Field electives: labor, public, international, behavioral
  • Game theory
  • Economic history or development
  • Senior research paper

Where a Economics degree can lead

  • Financial Analyst
  • Management Consultant
  • Data Analyst / Economist
  • Policy Analyst
  • Investment Banker
  • PhD Economist (academia)

Typical pay: $60,000–$90,000 early-career (BLS, 2024 economists median $115,440)

An Economics major covers microeconomics (consumer and firm behavior, market structure), macroeconomics (growth, inflation, monetary and fiscal policy), and econometrics (statistical analysis of economic data). Coursework requires calculus, linear algebra, statistics, and most departments now strongly recommend or require advanced econometrics. The major often comes in two flavors: a BA (lighter math) and a BS or "Mathematical Economics" (heavier math, recommended for PhD-bound students).

Economics graduates are sought by financial services, consulting, government, tech (data and product analytics), and academia. The major pairs well with a CS minor for technical roles or a Math/Statistics double for quantitative finance.

Find more Economics schools

Use CampusPin's filter-first search to narrow 301+ Economics programs in California by tuition, school size, acceptance rate, and campus setting.