So I got into all three of these school which surprised me as I had an average gpa and I am in a dilemma. UC Santa Barbara was my top choice as it is a UC but it means I would have to dorm and cost is an issue. I decided with long beach over fullerton but my parents said I could go to Santa barbara if I really wanted. As of right now I’m under as a sociology major but I want to change it to economics. How would you rank the Econ programs of the 3 schools? Is it worth all the money to go to Santa barbara? Long beach and fullerton are both 20 minutes away from my house so I would commute and it would be a lot cheaper. What should I do? I plan on getting my masters degree as well if it makes a difference.
I would take the UCSB if your parents are onboard, I would say the Econ is stronger too. You can worry about the masters when you figure out what you want it for, if it is better to work first etc.
What’s most important for your future isn’t the ranking of these programs but your ranking as a student. Are you going to work hard to get good grades? Are you going to get to know some of your professors for recommendations? Are you going to take part in business related activities on campus? And, most important, are you going to go out and get some internships while in college?
Do these things to stand out and your odds of success increase greatly. Don’t do them, and the school name on your diploma isn’t going to make that much difference.
BTW a masters degree in economics is not offered at UC schools.