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Business, Entrepreneurship, and Management

Business, Entrepreneurship & Management

Economics

Economics

Economics is the social scientific study of how individuals, organizations and societies currently produce and consume goods, services and resources now and in the future. Through the economics courses offered at Laney College, students will develop a better understanding of the choices we make as individuals and societies regarding the development and use of resources and their multifarious impacts in the microsphere and macrosphere. 

Department Overview

Economics is the social scientific study of how individuals, organizations, and societies produce and consume goods, services and resources now and in the future. Through the economics courses offered at Laney College, students will develop a better understanding of the choices we make as individuals and societies regarding the development and use of resources and their multifarious impacts in the microsphere and macrosphere.

An Associate in Arts for Transfer in Economics (AA-T) degree prepares students for a transfer to a four-year institution and knowledge of economic trends and conditions when entering the business or finance industry. The AA-T degree in Economics is awarded upon satisfactory completion of the major course requirements and the general education requirements. Review the Associate Degrees and Certificates section in this catalog for more information on the AA/AS-T overall and general education requirements.  

Students are encouraged to visit a counselor each academic semester to create or review their Student Education Plan (SEP).

Career Opportunities

A degree in economics can open up various career paths in both the public and private sectors. Here are some common career options for individuals with a background in economics:

  • Economist:
    • Conducting research and analysis on economic issues.
    • Providing economic forecasts and advice to organizations or government agencies.
  • Policy Analyst:
    • Analyzing and evaluating public policies and their economic impact.
    • Providing recommendations for policy improvements.
  • Financial Analyst:
    • Assessing financial data and market trends to provide investment advice.
    • Working for financial institutions, investment firms, or corporations.
  • Market Research Analyst:
    • Studying market conditions to identify potential sales opportunities for a product or service.
    • Analyzing consumer behavior and preferences.
  • Actuary:
    • Using statistical models to analyze financial risks, particularly in insurance and pension industries.
    • Estimating the likelihood of future events.
  • Data Analyst:
    • Analyzing and interpreting large sets of data to inform decision-making.
    • Working in various industries, including finance, healthcare, and marketing.
  • Management Consultant:
    • Advising organizations on business strategies, efficiency improvements, and problem-solving.
    • Applying economic principles to enhance organizational performance.
  • International Trade Specialist:
    • Analyzing global economic trends and trade policies.
    • Assisting businesses in navigating international markets.
  • Environmental Economist:
    • Studying the economic impact of environmental policies and practices.
    • Analyzing the cost and benefits of environmental regulations.
  • Urban or Regional Planner:
    • Assessing economic factors to plan and develop communities or regions.
    • Considering factors such as housing, transportation, and economic development.
  • Banking and Finance:
    • Investment Banking Analyst: Working on financial transactions such as mergers and acquisitions.
    • Financial Planner: Assisting individuals in managing their finances and planning for the future.
  • Government Economist:
    • Working for government agencies to analyze economic trends and develop policies.
    • Providing economic data for public use.
  • Educator/Professor:
    • Teaching economics at the high school, college, or university level.
    • Conducting research in economic theory or applied economics.
  • Nonprofit or NGO Analyst:
    • Analyzing economic aspects of social issues.
    • Working with nonprofit organizations to address economic challenges.
  • Public Relations Specialist for Economic Organizations:
    • Communicating economic data and information to the public.
    • Promoting economic initiatives and policies.
  • Real Estate Analyst:
    • Analyzing real estate market trends and investment opportunities.
    • Providing insights for real estate development and investment decisions.
  • Health Economist:
    • Analyzing the economic aspects of healthcare policies and systems.
    • Assessing the cost-effectiveness of healthcare interventions.

These career options demonstrate the diverse applications of economics in various industries. Depending on individual interests and specialization, economists can find opportunities in research, analysis, policy development, finance, and many other fields. Continuing education and staying informed about economic trends are crucial for success in this dynamic field.

Contact Us

Business & Economics Department Chair
Kim Bridges
Email: kbridges@peralta.edu

Dean of Humanities, Social Sciences, & Library
Tarek ElJarrari
Email: teljarrari@peralta.edu

Learning & Career Pathway
Business, CIT, Entrepreneurship & Management

Division
Division of Humanities, Social Sciences & Library

Campus Map

Degrees & Certificates

economics
Economics - AA-T Degree

This Degree is designed to prepare students for a seamless transfer with junior status and priority admission to a local CSU campus to a program or major in Economics or similar major for completion of a baccalaureate degree.

Business Resources, Services & Tutoring

Small Business Resource Center (SBRC)

Educational programs designed to help start a business and succeed. Offering free or low-cost classes and workshops, mentorship and access to investors and working capital. 

Location: Building F, Rm 251(F-251)

Student Support Services

Unlock the support you need to thrive!

A list of comprehensive student support services to help students achieve their academic and career goals.

Tutoring Services

A community space, a study space and a location for tutoring available on a drop-in basis.

Phone: 510-464-3155
Location: Building A, Rm 105 (A-105)

Laney College Enrollment (3)

Unlock Financial Aid for College Expenses

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Transfer To A University

Laney College's AA-T and AS-T degrees guarantee junior standing admission to the CSU system, with priority for local CSU campuses in similar programs. Consult a counselor or transfer specialist for details.

Meet With A Counselor

Counselors can help you create a Student Educational Plan (SEP) to outline the courses needed for an Associate’s degree, transfer, or certificate, even if you're unsure of your educational goals.

Uncertain About Your Career Path?

We provide support with career exploration, self-assessment as well as the major and career decision making process to help all Laney students achieve career satisfaction and success.