Economics

More than Money

Economics is a social science that examines the functions of various markets, the determination of prices, the distribution of income, the rates of unemployment, income, and inflation. The study of economics deals with social problems and issues such as racism, sexism, war, and poverty. The focus of learning is on principles of economic analysis, fiscal and monetary policy, macro and micro theories, consumer protection, international trade, American economic history, monetary systems, and governmental regulations.

Program Awards

Our Economics programs are included in the Business field of study and offer these awards:

Award	Location	Estimated Completion	Program Map
Economics (SB1440), Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT)	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Economics, Associate in Arts Degree: Transfer Preparation	Chula Vista	# Semesters

Common Careers

Below is a sample of the career options available for the economics major. A few of these require an associate degree, most require a bachelor’s degree, and some require a graduate-level degree: economist, general manager, budget analyst, industrial relations specialist, high school or college instructor, research technician, market analyst, labor relations arbitrator, business conditions forecaster, investment analyst, economic commentator, manpower economist, natural resource economist, commodity economist, energy economist, international economist, and commodity price forecaster.

The average annual salary in this field is  $104,820  for occupations like Economist.

Typical Duties

• Analyzing Data or Information
  Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
• Working with Computers
  Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
• Getting Information
  Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
• Processing Information
  Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
• Making Decisions and Solving Problems
  Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
• Thinking Creatively
  Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
• Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
  Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
• Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events 
  Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
• Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
  Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
• Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
  Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
• Training and Teaching Others
  Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
• Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information
  Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
• Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People
  Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
• Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
  Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
• Communicating with People Outside the Organization
  Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
• Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
  Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
• Developing Objectives and Strategies
  Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
• Documenting/Recording Information
  Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
• Providing Consultation and Advice to Others
  Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.