Undergraduate Program

Economics, B.A.

Study how people, markets, and institutions shape the world through rigorous training in theory, data, and real-world analysis.


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About the Major

Understand economic decisions and real-world outcomes

The Bachelor of Arts in Economics helps students examine how society produces and consumes goods, and it analyzes real-world issues such as international trade, poverty, taxes, crime, and education.

The curriculum provides students with thorough training in both theoretical and empirical approaches to real-world problems, while offering a framework for analyzing human behavior.

Students graduate with the skills needed for successful careers across finance, consulting, accounting, government, and related fields.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of the Economics major, students develop analytical, quantitative, and communication skills to evaluate real-world economic issues and policy decisions.

Economic Reasoning

  • Apply economic analysis to everyday life
  • Interpret current events through an economic lens
  • Analyze policy-relevant issues
  • Evaluate assumptions in economic arguments

Quantitative & Statistical Skills

  • Use data and economic models to evaluate arguments
  • Understand statistical methodology
  • Interpret statistical evidence accurately
  • Recognize issues like sample selection and endogeneity

Communication & Research

  • Construct evidence-based written arguments
  • Present economic ideas clearly and effectively
  • Use graphs, charts, and visual tools
  • Work with databases and primary data sources

Major Requirements

Requirement worksheets vary by admit type and entry year. Students should review the worksheet that matches their UCLA admission category.

First-Year Admits

Students admitted to UCLA in Fall 2023 and beyond.


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Transfer Admits

Students admitted to UCLA in Fall 2023 and beyond.


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Earlier Cohorts

Students admitted to UCLA from Fall 2020 through Fall 2022.


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Declaration timing

Beginning Fall 2025, non-transfer students must complete pre-major requirements by the end of their 8th regular quarter.

Students should apply to the major as soon as their final pre-major grades are posted to DARS.

For 2025–2026, both the 135-unit deadline and term deadline apply. Beginning Fall 2026, only the term deadline will apply.

Courses and Academic Planning

Explore prerequisite planning, course offerings, and detailed descriptions to understand the structure of the Economics major.

Prerequisite Guide

Review recommended sequencing and preparation for major coursework.


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Course Information

Browse detailed descriptions of Economics courses offered at UCLA.


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Declare the Major

Learn how to declare the Economics major or pre-major.


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Stay Informed

Connect with undergraduate advising

Visit our contact page for advising information and register for Econ-Alert to receive department announcements.