Economics Homepage - Department of Economics

About Us

The USC Dornsife Department of Economics is a dynamic environment for research, teaching, and studying. Academic excellence is informed by taking economic research beyond traditional boundaries, often collaborating with other disciplines. Our research ranks among the Top 20 (#12) U.S. academic institutions, and we are deeply committed to bringing creativity and critical thinking to some of the most pressing current challenges in society.

Theory Group

Analyzes how markets can be designed to improve equitable and efficient outcomes for all, including children and adolescents, and the strategic aspects of game theory in public policy and business.

Applied Economics Group

Studies the consequences of climate change on globalization, migration, financial risks, and urban dynamics; the impact of labor market policies; and the underpinnings of productivity, growth, and state capacity in developing countries.

Macroeconomics Group

Studies the link between macro-financial cycles, financial crises, and inequality to better understand the long-run risks of widening income and wealth gaps.

Econometrics Group

Ranked 5th worldwide, is creating new methods for analyzing the explosions of Big Data with special emphasis on causal relationships rather than just improving forecasts.

Undergraduate Studies

The undergraduate program in economics teaches students to think critically and become creative problems solvers. Students learn to utilize economic theory to better understand and shape social practices, political policy, financial marketplaces, and business models.

Master’s Studies

This robust Master’s program offers students the unique opportunity to master core knowledge of economic theory while advancing their applied knowledge in the following specialization tracks: Economic Policy and Development, Big Data Econometrics, Economic Consulting, Behavioral Economics and Financial Economics.

Doctoral Studies

This program is designed to prepare students for careers in teaching, research, industry, and government. The Department emphasizes economic theory and econometrics, applied economic analysis, including microeconomics, macroeconomics, international and development economics, behavioral economics, urban, and regional economics.

12th

National Research Ranking

1

Research Center

7,000

Alumni

32

Core Faculty

30

RTPC Faculty

11

Associated Faculty

1,290

Undergraduate Students

300

Masters Students

80

Doctoral Students

Professor Jeffrey Nugent Retires after 60 years of Advisorship, Dedication, and Research

After Jeffrey Nugent’s 60 years of distinguished research and advisorship, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and distinguished affiliates of the USC Department of Economics gathered to celebrate his achievements and listen to his closing lecture.

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