Seeking the top Economics programs in California

I'm a junior right now and trying to scope out colleges with strong Economics programs in California. Could anyone share their thoughts on which ones are considered top-tier or the best that I should aim for?

Definitely, there are a number of schools in California known for their robust Economics programs. In terms of sheer academic reputation or "top-tier," Stanford University and the University of California-Berkeley (UC Berkeley) often come to mind. Stanford's economics program is especially noted for its strong faculty and research output, while UC Berkeley is particularly renowned for its emphasis on economic theory and econometrics.

The University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) also has a really strong Economics department which offers a unique Business Economics major, for students interested in the application of economic principles to the business world. Similarly, the University of Southern California (USC) has a well-regarded Economics program in addition to a Business Economics program.

Claremont McKenna is a liberal arts college known for its Economics program, with a curricula including a unique sequence in financial economics. Majors also have the opportunity to conduct senior thesis research with faculty, participate in internships, and study abroad.

Other UC schools like UC Santa Barbara, UC Davis, and UC San Diego also have strong Economics programs with faculty actively involved in research. In particular, UC San Diego's program is research-intensive and leans toward the quantitative side.

Remember, it's crucial to also consider factors like class sizes, access to faculty, research opportunities, and how these colleges align with your overall career goals. California is quite rich in its offerings for Economics, so there's definitely a lot to choose from. The best program for you will depend on your individual preferences and career goals.