Key Details
| Program Length | 3 semesters (≈ 15 months) |
| Tuition Cost | ≈ US$26-27k |
| STEM OPT Status | Yes (STEM CIP 45.0603) Program Information |
| Brand Recognition | Downtown SF; policy & fin-services links |
| Typical Placements | Gov-policy, data analytics, some consulting |
| TA Funding | Rare, limited value |
| Internship Window | Medium (summer + possible term-time) |
Program Strengths & Weaknesses
Advantages
- Econometrics-driven curriculum
- Direct crossover to gov/NGO analytics
- Location in San Francisco
- Full STEM-OPT eligibility
- Middle-tier tuition cost
- Access to SF financial district
Disadvantages
- Less tech-sector focused than SJSU
- Limited TA funding opportunities
- Higher cost than SJSU
- Less prestigious than UC system
ROI Analysis
Total Investment: ~$56-66k
| Tuition | $26,000 - $27,000 |
| Living Expenses (15 months) | $29,000 - $38,000 |
| Books & Materials | ~$1,000 |
| Potential TA/RA Offset | Limited |
Note: San Francisco's higher cost of living is partially offset by excellent public transportation and potential internship opportunities.
Target Income Ranges
| Career Path | First Year Salary | 3-Year Trajectory |
|---|---|---|
| Government/Policy | $90k-110k | $110k-130k |
| Data Analytics | $95k-115k | $115k-135k |
| Consulting | $100k-120k | $120k-140k |
| Financial Analysis | $90k-110k | $110k-130k |
Payback Period: 1.5-2.5 years depending on career path
Curriculum & Focus Areas
The SFSU M.S. Quantitative Economics program emphasizes advanced econometric methods, quantitative analysis, and policy applications.
Core Curriculum
Quantitative Methods
- Advanced Econometrics
- Machine Learning for Economics
- Time Series Analysis
Policy Economics
- Public Economics
- Urban Economics
- Environmental Economics
Applied Economics
- Health Economics
- Labor Economics
- International Trade
Program Features
The program places special emphasis on econometric techniques and data analysis tools (R, Python, Stata) that are valued in both public and private sectors. Students complete research projects with policy relevance, often in collaboration with local agencies.
San Francisco Advantage
Located in downtown San Francisco, the program offers easy access to government agencies, financial institutions, and consulting firms. The department maintains close relationships with local government offices and non-profit organizations.
Visa & Immigration Pathway
OPT Timeline
SFSU's program provides a balanced STEM OPT timeline:
- Program Length: 15 months
- Regular OPT: 12 months post-graduation
- STEM Extension: Additional 24 months
- Total OPT Period: 36 months
Key Visa Considerations
- CPT Opportunities: The program duration allows for summer internships and potential part-time CPT during the academic year.
- H-1B Strategy: Government agencies and non-profits in San Francisco may offer H-1B cap-exempt employment opportunities.
- Location Advantage: Being in San Francisco provides access to a wide range of potential employers familiar with sponsoring international candidates.
- Diverse Employment Sectors: Options span government, consulting, financial services, and tech, increasing chances of finding a sponsor.
Strategic Planning
The medium-length program plus full STEM OPT extension gives you 51 months total in the US (15 months program + 36 months OPT), providing a good balance between program completion and job search time.
Alumni Outcomes & Networking
Top Employers
- Government: City of San Francisco, State of California, Federal Reserve
- Consulting: Accenture, Deloitte, Local Boutique Firms
- Financial Services: Wells Fargo, Charles Schwab
- Non-Profit: Research Institutes, Think Tanks
Alumni Network Strength
SFSU has a strong local network in San Francisco with alumni in key positions at:
- Local and state government agencies
- Economic research organizations
- Financial institutions headquartered in SF
- Consulting firms with San Francisco offices
Networking Opportunities
- Policy Forums: Regular events with government officials and policy experts
- Agency Connections: Seminars and presentations from local government agencies
- Research Partnerships: Collaborative projects with local organizations
- SF Job Fairs: Access to San Francisco-specific recruitment events
Strategic Networking Tip
SFSU's downtown location makes it easy to attend professional events after classes. Many alumni report securing positions through connections made at San Francisco's numerous industry conferences and policy forums.
Strategic Recommendations
SFSU is your best option if:
Career Goals
- Targeting policy, government, or NGO roles
- Interested in quantitative economic analysis
- Value being in San Francisco proper
- Want balanced program length and OPT time
Financial Situation
- Have moderate budget constraints
- Can manage mid-tier tuition costs
- Able to handle San Francisco living expenses
- Value city amenities and public transportation
Pre-Enrollment Preparation
Before Arriving
- Research SF government agencies
- Brush up on R/Stata/Python skills
- Join Bay Area economic policy groups
- Secure housing near public transit
First Semester
- Connect with professors researching policy
- Attend SF economic forums and events
- Build relationships with local agencies
- Begin planning for summer internships
Second Semester
- Secure summer internship with policy focus
- Develop econometric analysis portfolio
- Connect with non-profit organizations
- Explore H-1B cap-exempt employers