Professional Science Masters in Biotechnology
The PSM in Biotechnology at Saint Mary's is a two-year, 40-credit hybrid program de...
B.A. in Economics
Moraga, California
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.A. in Economics at Saint Mary's College focuses on providing students with a comprehensive understanding of economic principles and their application in diverse contexts. It delves into a broad variety of topics such as income disparities, trade, employment, inflation, economic growth and development, environment, discrimination, and recessions. The program is specifically designed for students who are interested in the social science aspects of economics, providing a solid foundation for careers in various sectors, including the private, public, and non-profit realms. It prepares students for roles that require sound decision-making and a nuanced understanding of economic systems.
AACSB Accreditation: Yes, the School of Economics and Business Administration (SEBA) at Saint Mary's College of California, which houses the Economics department, is AACSB accredited. This accreditation signifies that the undergraduate and graduate programs within SEBA, including the B.A. in Economics, meet rigorous global standards for quality and excellence in business education. AACSB accreditation ensures that students receive a globally recognized education grounded in ethical leadership, innovation, and a commitment to service, reflecting a high caliber of faculty, relevant curriculum, and valuable educational and career opportunities.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.A. in Economics provides a strong foundation in core economic principles and analytical methods. Typically, it includes foundational courses such as "Microeconomic Principles and Applications" and "Macroeconomic Principles and Applications." Students then progress to intermediate theory courses like "Intermediate Microeconomic Theory" and "Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory." The curriculum also integrates courses in data analysis, such as "Probability and Statistics" and "Econometrics," to equip students with quantitative skills. Elective options allow students to explore specialized areas within economics, potentially including "International Economics," "Economic Development," or "Environmental Economics," providing flexibility to tailor their studies to specific interests. The program culminates in a "Senior Project in Economics," where students apply their knowledge to an independent research endeavor.
Research Focus: The B.A. in Economics at Saint Mary's College strongly emphasizes the application of economic theories and quantitative methods to understand real-world phenomena. Students are trained to use techniques and theories from various related fields, such as mathematics, market research, and data analysis. The curriculum includes courses like Econometrics, which focus on empirical research methods. Students are encouraged to develop a deep understanding of the trade-offs between increasing production and preserving the environment, reflecting a focus on ethical and societal impacts. The program culminates in a Senior Project, which often involves original research where students investigate economic issues, analyze data, and present their findings, demonstrating their ability to contribute to economic inquiry.
Industry Engagement: Saint Mary's College fosters industry engagement for its Economics students by equipping them with highly desirable skills for employers in many industries, including data analysis, mathematics, analytical reasoning, and critical thinking. The program's focus on practical application prepares students for diverse career paths in the private, public, and non-profit sectors. While specific, formalized industry engagement programs like mandatory external internships are not explicitly detailed for the B.A. in Economics on all public materials, the curriculum's emphasis on general business operations and trends, combined with the College's strong liberal arts tradition and Bay Area location, provides ample opportunities for students to connect with various industries through networking events, career services, and faculty connections.
Global Perspective: The B.A. in Economics at Saint Mary's College inherently integrates a global perspective by exploring the "many intricacies of our increasingly globalized economy" and the "broader global, social, and environmental factors that drive and derail economies." The curriculum often includes courses such as "International Economics" and offers concentrations like "International and Development" within the B.S. in Economics, indicating a focus on global economic interdependencies. The School of Economics and Business Administration (SEBA), where the program is housed, explicitly aims to "inspire students to develop a global and responsible business perspective," ensuring graduates are prepared to examine issues from a multitude of perspectives and collaborate with diverse individuals in an interconnected world.
Location
Moraga, California
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 59251
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Saint Mary's College of California is dedicated to making high-quality education accessible and affordable for students from around the world. To support this commitment, the college offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically for international students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a desire to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
Merit-Based Scholarships: All international undergraduate applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships at the time of admission no separate application is required. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores (if submitted), extracurricular involvement, and personal accomplishments.
International Excellence Scholarship: This competitive award recognizes exceptional international students who exhibit outstanding academic performance and global leadership. Students selected for the International Excellence Scholarship may receive additional financial support beyond standard merit scholarships. Selection is based on a holistic review of the application, essays, and achievements.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While financial aid for international students is limited, some need-based assistance may be available on a case-by-case basis. Students are encouraged to communicate directly with the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid to explore all available options.
External Scholarships and Sponsorships: International students are also encouraged to apply for external scholarships from global organizations, private foundations, and government-sponsored programs. The college provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for third-party funding opportunities that can supplement institutional aid.
Graduates of Saint Mary's College of California's B.A. in Economics are equipped with a powerful blend of analytical acumen, quantitative proficiency, and critical thinking skills.
Financial Analyst: Advises individuals and organizations on investment decisions, analyzes financial data, and creates financial models to forecast market performance for banks, investment firms, or corporations.
Market Research Analyst: Studies market conditions, consumer behavior, and competitive dynamics using economic principles and statistical methods to help businesses make informed decisions about products, services, and marketing strategies.
Data Analyst: Collects, cleans, analyzes, and interprets large datasets to identify trends, patterns, and insights that inform business decisions across various sectors, leveraging strong quantitative skills.
Management Consultant: Provides expert advice to organizations on how to improve efficiency, solve problems, and achieve strategic goals, often applying economic frameworks to optimize business processes and financial performance.
Policy Analyst (Government/Think Tank): Researches and evaluates public policies (e.g., environmental, social, trade) to assess their economic impact and effectiveness, informing legislative decisions and public discourse.
Economic Analyst: Conducts research, analyzes economic data, and forecasts economic trends for businesses, government agencies, or financial institutions, providing insights into various economic phenomena.
Credit Analyst: Evaluates the creditworthiness of individuals or companies to assess risk for banks and other lending institutions, using financial statements and economic indicators.
Actuarial Analyst (often requires further exams/certifications): Assesses and manages financial risks, particularly in the insurance and pension industries, using advanced mathematical and statistical models informed by economic principles.
Business Journalist/Reporter: Specializes in covering economic news, financial markets, and business trends for various media outlets, translating complex economic concepts into understandable narratives for a broad audience.
Urban Planner (often requires graduate degree): Analyzes economic factors influencing urban development, housing, and infrastructure to help design and implement sustainable community plans for government agencies or private consulting firms.
