Navigating the UCLA Economics Department: A Guide to People, Resources, and Opportunities
The UCLA Department of Economics offers a vibrant and supportive environment for undergraduate students. Whether you're a prospective student, a newly admitted Bruin, or a seasoned economics major, understanding the resources and people available to you is crucial for academic success and overall well-being. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the UCLA Economics Department, focusing on its advising services, student opportunities, and key personnel.
Undergraduate Advising: Your Gateway to Success
The Department of Economics Undergraduate Advising Office is your primary resource for all major-related questions and concerns. The advisors are equipped to guide you through various aspects of your academic journey, including:
- Requirements for the Economics and Business Economics majors
- Enrollment in Economics courses
- Program planning for a double major
- Advice about studying abroad
- Scholarships
- Referrals to various campus resources
Beginning in Fall 2025, the department is transitioning to a drop-in advising model. This means that in addition to virtual appointments and the Message Center, you'll have more opportunities to connect with advisors on a flexible, as-needed basis.
Accessing Advising Services
The Economics undergraduate advisors are accessible through multiple channels:
- Virtual Drop-in: Connect with advisors remotely for quick questions and immediate assistance. Note that you must use your UCLA login credentials to join through the SSO UCLA Zoom logon. Drop-in hours may vary.
- Message Center: Use the MyUCLA Message Center to send detailed inquiries and receive personalized responses. To access the Message Center, log on to MyUCLA and click “Message Center” in the top right corner.
- Virtual Appointments: Schedule dedicated time with an advisor for in-depth discussions and comprehensive planning.
- In-Person Drop-in Advising: Offered occasionally throughout the quarter. When offered, the dates and times will be announced on Econ-Alert and posted.
Stay Informed with Econ-Alert
Econ-Alert is the Economics Department's primary communication channel for undergraduate students. It's the best way to stay informed about important departmental information that you won't hear about from anywhere else, such as policy changes, the Business Economics Application, and updates to course offerings. This is also the only place to access our Pre-Major and Economics Major Request Forms.
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To receive Econ-Alerts, join the Econ Counseling Bruin Learn site.
Meet the Advising Team: Your Partners in Education
The UCLA Economics Department boasts a dedicated team of advisors with diverse backgrounds and experiences. They are passionate about education and committed to making a positive impact on students' lives. Here's a glimpse into the advising team:
Lauren
Lauren is a proud double Bruin from the Class of 2022 and 2023. She has several years of experience advising students from various majors and backgrounds. Outside of UCLA, she enjoys reading, exploring coffee shops, and all things Star Wars!
[Advisor Name]
[Advisor] has worked in marketing, real estate, and finance, but found that her passion for education drives her most. She has over 10 years of experience in this field and is a proud Bruin and graduate of this very Department.
[Advisor Name]
[Advisor] is a Sociology graduate from the University of California, Los Angeles. She has years of experience in academic advising and working in higher education spaces, with aspirations to pursue opportunities as a podcaster and cultural commentator.
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College Academic Mentor (CAM)
CAMs are graduate students who advise undergraduate students in the College of Letters and Science. The Econ Department is fortunate to have a CAM supporting the department for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Student Ambassador Program: Become a Leader
The Department of Economics is looking for current students to serve as Student Ambassadors! This is a fantastic opportunity to represent the department at various events, collaborate with department staff, and lead the development of new programs!
If you're interested in serving as a Student Ambassador, fill out the Student Ambassador Interest Form. You can also apply to be a part of the Student Ambassador Leadership Team for the 2025-2026 academic year by completing the application.
STEM Certification: A Recognition of Rigor
The Bachelor of Arts in Economics and the Bachelor of Arts in Business Economics have been reclassified as STEM majors (CIP Code 45.0603: Econometrics and Quantitative Economics). This change is in effect for students with a Degree Expected Term of Fall Quarter 2019 or later. It does not apply retroactively.
This STEM certification highlights the quantitative and analytical rigor of the economics programs at UCLA, opening up new opportunities for students in terms of career paths and further education.
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