At UC Merced, we’re shaping the next generation of problem-solvers, innovators, and leaders. Our Economics and Business programs include majors in Accounting, Business Administration, Economics and Management and Business Economics. These majors combine rigorous academics with hands-on experience to prepare students for meaningful careers in today’s global economy.
As California’s newest research university, UC Merced offers small class sizes, faculty mentorship, and cutting-edge research. Students gain practical skills and the confidence to lead in industries that are evolving faster than ever.
What makes UC Merced Different?
Real-World Application
Our programs emphasize learning by doing through case studies, simulations, internships, and research. Students apply business and economic principles to solve real challenges in finance, management, marketing, and policy.
Faculty Mentorship and Support
The Economics and Business Management faculty at UC Merced are not just teachers they are mentors, researchers, and professionals who work closely with students to help them succeed academically and professionally.
Quantitative and Analytical Strength
Whether you’re studying accounting standards, financial markets, or business operations, you’ll gain strong quantitative reasoning and data analysis skills that set UC Merced graduates apart.
Ethical and Inclusive Leadership
Across all programs, integrity and social responsibility are central. Students learn to make informed, ethical decisions that promote sustainable and inclusive growth.
Career Preparation and Flexibility
From accounting firms and tech startups to consulting and public policy, our graduates pursue a wide range of opportunities. UC Merced’s programs provide academic and professional preparation to thrive in any sector or to continue to top MBA or graduate programs.
Pathways for every interest
Accounting
Build technical and ethical expertise for careers in auditing, taxation, and financial analysis. The curriculum exceeds state CPA exam requirements and offers a strong foundation in economics and statistics for multidimensional business insight.
Business Administration
Develop leadership and strategic decision-making skills to manage teams, lead organizations, and innovate across industries. The program focuses on practical, hands-on learning in management, marketing, and finance.
Management and Business Economics
Bridge business and economics with a focus on analytics, strategy, and organizational performance. Ideal for students interested in consulting, data analysis, or operations management. 
Economics
Explore how people, markets, and governments interact. Learn to evaluate data, policy, and global trends to make informed decisions and drive positive change.
Careers in Economics and Business
Students in UC Merced’s Economics and Business programs develop strong analytical, quantitative, and communication skills preparing them for success across a wide range of industries and professions. Employers across sectors including corporations, financial institutions, consulting firms, government agencies, and nonprofits actively seek graduates from our Accounting, Business Administration, Management and Business Economics, and Economics majors.
Our students go on to pursue rewarding careers and graduate study in fields such as:
- Accounting and Finance: Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Auditor, Financial Analyst, Controller
- Business and Management: Operations Manager, Consultant, Project Manager, Marketing Strategist, Entrepreneur
- Economics and Policy: Economist, Data Analyst, Policy Researcher, or roles in government and international organizations
Many graduates also continue to top MBA, law, and public policy programs, or pursue advanced degrees in economics and business-related fields.
Across the nation, degrees in Economics, Accounting, Business Administration, and Management and Business Economics consistently rank among the most valuable undergraduate majors, offering excellent salary potential, advancement opportunities, and career flexibility. UC Merced students graduate prepared not just for their first job but for a lifetime of professional growth and success.
