Wassup guys! I'm a junior in high school and I absolutely live and breathe econ. I'm starting to look at colleges and I was hoping you guys could give me a run-down of the best economics programs in California.
Hello! It's wonderful to hear that you're passionate about economics! There are a number of excellent colleges in California with great economics programs. Here are a few to consider, listed in no particular order.
1. Stanford University: Known for its world-class faculty and rigorous curriculum, Stanford is certainly one of the top choices for an economics major. The economics department regularly ranks among the best worldwide, and students have a wealth of research opportunities available.
2. University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley): UC Berkeley has a very strong economics program, and Berkeley economists are frequently at the forefront of their areas of study. The university offers a diverse course selection and numerous opportunities for research and internships.
3. California Institute of Technology (Caltech): Although Caltech might be best-known for its STEM programs, it also has a very strong economics program, particularly for students who enjoy a more mathematical approach to the subject.
4. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA): The economics major at UCLA is quite popular and provides students with a solid understanding of economic theory, in addition to a wide range of electives. The campus's location also provides numerous opportunity for internships and networking.
5. University of Southern California (USC): USC's economics program is very flexible, offering a B.A. in Economics, a B.S. in Economics/Mathematics, and a progressive degree program where you can earn your B.A. and master’s in just five years.
6. Pomona College: If you are considering liberal arts colleges, Pomona's economics major is one of the most popular on campus. The college's small class sizes promote close interactions with faculty, and students often work on research projects with professors.
7. Claremont McKenna College: Claremont McKenna has a robust department of economics and finances, and is known for a hybrid operations research and economics course, Mathematical Economics. What's unique is the college's emphasis on leadership and experiential learning, their "money lab" is the largest student-run investment fund among undergraduate institutions.
Finally, your choice should also depend on the specific areas of economics you're interested in, like behavioral economics, international economics, or economic policy, as some colleges may have stronger courses and faculty in specific areas. Good luck with your search!
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