COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Quantitative Economics at California State University, Sacramento requires a total of 30 units and is structured around core coursework, electives, and a thesis. All students must first complete 15 units of core courses with a minimum grade of “B” in each, ensuring a strong foundation in advanced macroeconomic and microeconomic theory, applied economics, mathematics for economists, and econometric analysis. These courses develop essential quantitative and analytical skills needed to model and interpret complex economic behavior.After completing the core sequence, students take 12 units of elective courses, allowing them to specialize in areas aligned with their interests and career goals. Elective options include topics such as public finance, monetary and fiscal policy, international trade, industrial organization, urban economics, and cost-benefit analysis. Students may also choose supporting courses from statistics, mathematics, or data analytics, enabling them to strengthen their technical and data-driven capabilities.The program concludes with a 3-unit master’s thesis, which serves as the culminating requirement. In this component, students conduct independent research on an economic topic, applying theoretical and quantitative methods learned throughout the program. The thesis demonstrates the student’s ability to analyze real-world economic issues and present findings in a rigorous academic format. Overall, the curriculum combines theory, quantitative methods, and applied research to prepare graduates for careers in business, government, and academia.