2008 Snyder Lecture
UCSB Economics is proud to announce the 50th Annual Carl Snyder Memorial Lecture.
updated Apr 15, 2008

Undergraduate Program - Frequently Asked Questions

NOTE:
Please refer to the UCSB General Catalog for official policies and procedures.

Which math course - Math 3AB (Calculus with Applications) versus Math 34AB (Calculus for Social & Life Sciences) - should I enroll in?

Students may select either series of calculus to fulfill the Business Economics pre-major. Economics and Economics/Math students must, however, take the Math 3 series. Students considering an MBA degree in the future will be prepared to enter into this type of graduate program with either series.

What's the difference between Writing 109EC, 109SS, and 109AC? When can I enroll in this course on GOLD?

All three writing courses satisfy the pre-major requirement as well as a general education requirement. Writing 109EC is Writing for Economics and Business Economics, Writing 109SS is Writing for Social Sciences, and Writing 109AC is Writing for Accounting Economics. Please note that you must be enrolled in Economics 136A the same quarter you take Writing 109AC.

In order to register into any of these writing courses, you must have upper-division standing and be a declared pre- or full major in Economics or Business Economics on the first two passes. Questions about course content or enrollment/waiting lists should be directed to the Writing Program.

What's the average load of economics courses?

The average load of economics classes is two per quarter. We recommend no more than three in any one quarter.

When can I declare the pre-major? the full-major?

Students who enter UCSB as something other than pre-business economics may declare the pre-major once they have completed three pre-major courses (at least two must be economics courses). Once students have completed all other pre-major requirements successfully (Economics 1, 2, 3A, 3B, PStat 5E, Math 3AB/34AB), with the exception of the writing course, then they may declare the full major. Successful application is dependent on the pre-major GPA requirements.

Why can't I register for certain economics courses?

The registration system restricts enrollment in certain classes by major codes. All students may register in pre-major courses. All upper division Economics classes are restricted to full majors.

Can I put my name on a waiting list if a class is full?

Yes! Waiting lists are accessible through this website.

I took a summer school course at a local community college. Where should I have my transcripts sent?

All transcripts should be sent to the Office of the Registrar, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106. The department will receive a credit memo to indicate that you have completed the course. You are also encouraged to bring an unofficial transcript to the undergraduate office, North Hall 2121.

Do courses from my junior college count toward the pre-major?

There are many courses that satisfy pre-major requirements at community colleges. If you receive credit for completing an equivalent class elsewhere. DO NOT enroll in the same course at UCSB. Grades from any institution outside the University of California do not transfer into your pre-major GPA. You may visit www.assist.org to check course transferability.

Where can I go for more answers to my questions?

The staff in the undergraduate office are happy to assist you with any questions you may have regarding the major. The office is located in North Hall 2121 and is open from 9-12 and 1-4 Monday through Friday. You should also seek advice from the College of Letters and Science (1st floor of Cheadle Hall) for questions regarding general education and other university requirements. The College of Letters and Science can also be reached at (805) 893-2038.

When and how will I find out if I got into the class via the waiting list?

Instructors or TA's for each course will distribute the approval codes at the beginning of the second week of classes. Please attend class and listen for instructions.