International Economics Emphasis

The Bachelor of Science in International Economics with an Emphasis at California State University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the global economic environment and the fundamental principles that drive international trade and finance. This program is designed to equip students with analytical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to analyze economic issues on a global scale, including international markets, economic policies, trade regulations, and fiscal strategies. Students will explore key areas such as international monetary systems, exchange rates, economic development, and globalization impacts. The curriculum combines core economic theories with practical applications, facilitating students’ ability to interpret international economic data and make informed decisions in various professional contexts. Emphasis courses delve deeper into topics like international trade policies, economic integration, and the role of multinational corporations. The program prepares graduates for careers in government agencies, international organizations, banking, consulting, and multinational corporations, or for further graduate studies in economics or related fields. It emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative analysis, and effective communication, ensuring students are well-rounded economists capable of contributing to the global economy. In addition to coursework, students may have opportunities for internships, research projects, and study abroad programs, enriching their academic experience and professional readiness. Graduates will be adept at understanding complex international economic issues, developing strategic solutions, and engaging in policy dialogue at national and international levels. The program’s faculty are experienced economists and scholars dedicated to providing a rigorous and engaging educational environment. Overall, the International Economics Emphasis at California State University prepares students to excel in an interconnected world, fostering the skills necessary to succeed in diverse international economic roles.

Economics (120 units)

Lower Division Required 9-10
Upper Division Required 19
Required Emphasis 12-17
General Education 48
American Institutions 6
Free Electives 20-26
Total Units 120

Lower Division Requirements (9-10 units):

ECON 110 Principles of Microeconomics (3)
ECON 111 Principles of Macroeconomics (3)

Select either:
MATH 140 Calculus for Business Applications (3)
or
MATH 150 Calculus I (4)

Upper Division Requirements (19 units):

ECON 310 Intermediate Microeconomics (3)
ECON 311 Intermediate Macroeconomics (3)
ECON 488 Applied Managerial Econometrics (4)
ECON 496 Seminar in Economic Analysis (3)
ECON 499 Capstone (3)

Select either:
MATH 329 Statistics for Business and Economics (3)
or
MATH 352 Probability and Statistics (3)1

REQUIRED EMPHASIS (12-17 UNITS):

Economics majors are required to complete one of the following two emphases:

For all emphases, ECON 492 may not be taken to fulfill the requirements of the economics major. ECON 497 must be taken for 3 units in order to be applies to the major.

1.  International Economics Emphasis (17 units)

Lower Division - 8 units

A minimum of 2 courses in a foreign language or equivalent [for example, SPAN 101 (4) and 102 (4)].
Note: This requirement represents one additional course beyond the CI foreign language requirement.

Upper Division - 9 units

A minimum of 3 upper division courses in economics (or approved courses outside of economics) as follows:
Three courses from the following:
ECON 471 International Trade (3)
ECON 473 Economic Development (3)

Choose one of the Following:
ECON 370 The World Economy (3)
ECON 444 Values and Valuables (ANTH) (3)
ECON 472 International Macroeconomics (3)
POLS 328 United States Foreign Policy (3)
ECON 300, 492, and 497 may not be taken to meet the requirements of the economics major.

2. Managerial Economics Emphasis (12 units)

Upper Division - 12

A minimum of 4 upper division courses in economics (or approved courses outside of economics) as follows:
FIN 300 Business Finance (3)

Select either:
ECON 320 Money and Banking (3)
or
ECON 329 Managerial Economics (3)

Select either:
ECON 471 International Trade (3)
or
ECON 472 International Economics (3)

A minimum of one courses must be taken from cross-disciplinary courses offered by economics (ECON 330-349 and 430-449).

Note: Students selecting this emphasis must take either ECON 320 or 329, but may not take both courses for credit in the major.

Required Supporting and Other GE Courses (75-81 units)

General Education (48)
American Institutions (6)
Free Electives (21-27)

International Undergraduate Admission Requirements

The process for freshmen and transfer students is the same; however, as a transfer student additional criteria must be met. This additional criteria is marked with an *.

International Checklist & Application

To apply to CSU Channel Islands as an undergraduate, please submit an application and $55.00 application fee online through www.csumentor.edu 

International Freshmen Checklist  

International Transfer Checklist 

Financial Affidavit for Undergraduate applicants 

Submit all application documents to the Center for International Affairs. 

*Transfer Students: We are currently accepting applications from all community colleges in the U.S.  Please make sure that you have at least 60 units and have completed “Oral communication”, “Written communication”, “Critical thinking” and “College level mathematics/quantitative reasoning” with “C” or better.  Please note that the Nursing programs are closed for international students.  

English Score

Submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other acceptable test (see below for list of tests).  Scores must be sent directly to CSUCI from testing agency.

Acceptable English Placement Exams

TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language with a minimum Paper-Based score of 500, a minimum Computer Based score of 173 or a minimum Internet Based score of 61.

IELTS – International English Language Test System with an overall band score of 6.0.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The California State University offers a range of financial support options for students pursuing a degree in International Economics with an emphasis. Funding opportunities include federal and state grants, such as the Pell Grant and Cal Grant programs, which provide need-based financial aid to eligible students. Additionally, the university offers institutional scholarships that are awarded based on merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the student's background or intended field of study. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year to determine eligibility for federal aid programs.

Work-study programs are also available, providing students with part-time employment opportunities on or off-campus, which helps to offset educational costs and gain valuable work experience. Many students choose to participate in on-campus jobs through the university'sWork-Study program, which offers flexible hours tailored to academic schedules.

Apart from scholarships and federal aid, students can explore private funding sources, including third-party scholarships, grants, and sponsorships, which can be obtained through community organizations, corporations, and family support. The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive counseling to assist students in identifying suitable funding options and completing related applications.

Students are encouraged to budget carefully and consider additional cost-saving measures such as purchasing used textbooks, living arrangements, and part-time employment. For international students, specific scholarships and funding opportunities may be limited, but the university offers some institutional support programs tailored for their needs.

Loan programs, including federal Direct Loans, are also available, with the requirement that students meet certain eligibility criteria and agree to repayment terms post-graduation. The university emphasizes responsible borrowing and provides financial literacy resources to help students manage their student debt effectively.

In summary, financing an International Economics degree at California State University involves a multifaceted approach, combining federal aid, institutional scholarships, work opportunities, private funding, and responsible borrowing, all aimed at making higher education accessible and affordable for students from diverse backgrounds.

The International Economics Emphasis at California State University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the global economic environment and the instrumental role that international trade and finance play in contemporary economies. This program is designed to equip students with the analytical skills necessary to evaluate international economic policies, understand global financial markets, and comprehend the economic principles that underpin international cooperation and competition. Courses typically include topics such as international trade theory, international monetary systems, global economic development, and international business strategies. Students will also gain practical experience through case studies, research projects, and possibly internships, preparing them for careers in international organizations, multinational corporations, government agencies, and non-profit sectors.

The curriculum emphasizes both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of economics in a global context, fostering critical thinking, quantitative analysis, and cross-cultural communication skills. Faculty members often have extensive experience in international economics and bring real-world insights into the classroom, enriching the learning experience. Students are encouraged to participate in study-abroad programs, internships, and seminars to enhance their understanding of global economic issues.

Graduates of this emphasis are well-prepared for advanced study in economics or related fields, or for direct entry into the workforce, where they can contribute to international economic policy development, financial analysis, market research, or consulting. The program aims to develop graduates who are globally minded, analytically adept, and culturally competent, capable of navigating the complexities of international economic relations. With California's strategic location and diverse economy, students benefit from numerous networking opportunities and connections to the regional and global economic communities. The International Economics Emphasis aligns with CSU’s mission to prepare students for global citizenship and lifelong learning, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to thrive in an interconnected world.