SJSU M.A. Applied Economics

Optimal tech FP&A pathway with lowest tuition costs and Silicon Valley connections

Program Snapshot

Key Details

Program Length 4 semesters (≈ 18-20 months)
Tuition Cost ≈ US$22-25k
STEM OPT Status Yes (Fall '23 STEM re-code) Program Information
Brand Recognition Deep in Silicon Valley; heavy tech-finance crossover
Typical Placements Tech FP&A / product-analytics
TA Funding Rare, limited value
Internship Window Strong (summer + term-time)

Program Strengths & Weaknesses

Advantages

  • Lowest tuition cost
  • Located in San Jose where hiring managers are
  • Strong tech-sector FP&A placement
  • Full STEM-OPT 36 month total
  • Longer internship window for CPT
  • Direct networking in Silicon Valley tech ecosystem

Disadvantages

  • Less prestigious than UC system
  • Limited TA funding opportunities
  • Longer time to completion
  • Less recognized for investment banking/consulting

ROI Analysis

Investment Breakdown

Total Investment: ~$57-65k

Tuition $22,000 - $25,000
Living Expenses (18-20 months) $34,000 - $40,000
Books & Materials ~$1,000
Potential TA/RA Offset Limited

Note: San Jose's location in Silicon Valley provides excellent internship opportunities that can offset costs.

Expected Returns

Target Income Ranges

Career Path First Year Salary 3-Year Trajectory
Tech FP&A $100k-120k $120k-140k
Product Analytics $110k-125k $130k-150k
Corporate Finance $95k-115k $115k-135k
Data Analytics $100k-120k $120k-140k

Payback Period: 1-1.5 years for Tech FP&A/Product Analytics track

Comparative ROI Chart

Curriculum & Focus Areas

The SJSU M.A. Applied Economics program focuses on practical applications of economic theory with an emphasis on data analysis and business economics, particularly relevant to the tech sector.

Core Curriculum

Econometrics & Statistics
  • Econometric Methods
  • Applied Data Analysis
  • Forecasting Techniques
Business Economics
  • Behavioral Economics
  • Business Strategy
  • Technology Economics
Applied Economics
  • Industrial Organization
  • Public Economics
  • Labor Economics

Program Features

The program emphasizes practical skills development with a focus on data analysis tools commonly used in tech companies (Python, R, SQL). Students complete research projects that can be directly showcased to potential employers.

Silicon Valley Advantage

San Jose State's location in the heart of Silicon Valley provides unparalleled access to tech companies. The department maintains close relationships with local tech firms, facilitating guest speakers, site visits, and internship opportunities.

Visa & Immigration Pathway

OPT Timeline

SJSU's program provides a favorable STEM OPT timeline:

  • Program Length: 18-20 months
  • Regular OPT: 12 months post-graduation
  • STEM Extension: Additional 24 months
  • Total OPT Period: 36 months

Key Visa Considerations

  • CPT Advantages: The longer program duration allows for both summer and term-time CPT opportunities, increasing chances of securing a sponsor.
  • H-1B Strategy: Silicon Valley tech companies have established H-1B sponsorship processes.
  • Location Advantage: Being physically present in Silicon Valley facilitates networking with potential sponsors.
  • Tech Employer Familiarity: Many tech employers in the area are familiar with sponsoring international students.

Strategic Planning

The extended program length plus full STEM OPT extension gives you nearly 5 years in the US (20 months program + 36 months OPT), maximizing your chances of securing sponsorship.

Alumni Outcomes & Networking

Top Employers

  • Tech: Google, Apple, Intel, Cisco, Adobe
  • Finance Tech: PayPal, Intuit, Square
  • Consulting: Accenture, Deloitte
  • Startups: Various Silicon Valley ventures

Alumni Network Strength

SJSU has a strong local network in Silicon Valley with alumni in key positions at:

  • Major tech companies' finance departments
  • Product and analytics teams
  • Regional financial services
  • Bay Area corporate finance

Networking Opportunities

  • Tech Meetups: Regular Silicon Valley industry events with direct access to hiring managers
  • Corporate Visits: Organized company tours and information sessions
  • Industry Projects: Collaborative projects with local companies
  • Career Fairs: Tech-specific recruitment events with strong alumni participation
Strategic Networking Tip

SJSU's location allows students to participate in Silicon Valley's vibrant meetup culture. These informal networking events often lead to insider referrals and hidden job opportunities not advertised publicly.

Strategic Recommendations

SJSU is your best option if:

Career Goals
  • Targeting tech-sector FP&A or product analytics
  • Want direct access to Silicon Valley employers
  • Value practical skills over academic prestige
  • Need longer OPT runway for visa planning
Financial Situation
  • Have tight budget constraints
  • Need the lowest possible tuition cost
  • Plan to work during your studies
  • Value CPT internship earning potential

Pre-Enrollment Preparation

Before Arriving
  • Research tech companies in Silicon Valley
  • Join relevant LinkedIn groups
  • Learn basic Python/R/SQL skills
  • Secure housing near campus/public transit
First Semester
  • Connect with career services immediately
  • Join economics and tech student groups
  • Attend Silicon Valley meetups
  • Begin internship search for following summer
Second Semester
  • Secure summer internship
  • Build data analysis portfolio
  • Develop relationships with professors
  • Find part-time CPT opportunity if possible