Economicsat California State University-Los Angeles
Graduates earn $32,877/yr in their first year — about 39.0% below the national Economics average. Base-case 10-year earnings $424K; scenarios range from $419K to $416K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Cal State LA
The earnings data for Economics at Cal State LA reflects a unique interplay of regional market dynamics and program focus. Los Angeles is a highly competitive, high-cost-of-living area, and many graduates often secure roles within the local economy, which might include government, non-profits, or smaller businesses where entry-level salaries differ from national averages in high-finance or tech hubs. The program likely provides a strong foundation in economic theory and analytical skills, but isn't necessarily a direct pipeline into the highest-paying, specialized roles often inflating national economics major earnings. Many students may also pursue further education or careers in fields like teaching. Given the high AI risk for this major, developing practical, in-demand skills like advanced data analysis or specific industry knowledge through internships is crucial to enhance your post-graduation prospects.
Three scenarios, ten years out
Each scenario is a different assumption about how AI reshapes the career paths this major feeds into. Earnings projections stack the full 10-year cumulative trajectory; scores use the same 0–100 metric as the hero, recomputed under that scenario's assumptions.
10 year projection
Year-by-year earnings under each scenario. Base case reflects BLS growth patterns applied to Cal State LA's starting earnings; optimistic and pessimistic adjust for AI's effect on each career path this major feeds into.
Common career destinations for this program's graduates, weighted by the school's specific occupation mix. Salary is BLS national median; AI risk is per-role task-exposure research.
Peer schools offering Economics
How Cal State LA stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Cal State LA
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Cal State LA, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Economics offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Economics trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Economics at Cal State LA
How does California State University-Los Angeles's Economics program score?
This program scores 44/100 — on the lower end for Economics. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is Economics to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Economics careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 56% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why are Economics earnings lower at California State University-Los Angeles?
Lower starting pay at California State University-Los Angeles may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.