For students pursuing an M.A. in Economics at Cal State Fullerton, the journey is both rigorous and rewarding. One of the key courses offered in the program is ECON 504 – Advanced Econometrics, taught by Economics Professor Maria Casanova who brings both expertise and enthusiasm to the classroom.
A Practical Approach to Econometrics
In ECON 504, students delve into statistical tools to study real-world questions and apply them to their own research. Casanova explains, “I enjoy teaching this course because it gives students practical skills they can use in many careers.” The course emphasizes hands-on learning, equipping students with tools to analyze and interpret data.
One of the most important lessons students take away from the course is understanding the difference between correlation and causation. “Just because two things happen at the same time does not mean that one causes the other,” she notes. This principle is critical not only for aspiring social scientists but also for navigating everyday information. For instance, Casanova notes that a study stating that people who visit museums live longer may imply that museum visitors differ in other important ways from those not participating in cultural experiences, rather than museum visitation being a means to live longer in and of itself.
Why Pursue an M.A. in Economics?
For recent graduates and young professionals, the M.A. in Economics offers a range of benefits. As Casanova highlights, “Many students are drawn to the program because it is very practical and data focused. Students learn statistical and analytical skills that can be applied across many fields where data analysis is important.”
The program also serves as a stepping stone for students aiming to pursue further graduate studies, such as a Ph.D., or for mid-career professionals seeking to update their knowledge. A unique aspect of the program is its integration of cutting-edge tools. “For example, the program now offers extensive training in machine learning, an area that was often not part of economics courses when mid-career professionals completed their degrees several years ago,” the professor explains.
The M.A. in Economics places a strong emphasis on preparing students to work with the latest technology tools. While the ECON 504 course focuses on core econometric methods, it lays the groundwork for students to use modern data tools responsibly.
“Students learn the econometric foundations that allow them to ask the right questions of their data, interpret results correctly, and understand the limitations of any tool they use,” she says. This solid foundation enables students to integrate advanced techniques meaningfully in later coursework and professional settings.
Career Highlights and Research Achievements
On the research front, Casanova has collaborated with colleagues from USC and UC Berkeley and has designed a longitudinal survey exploring how people interact with artificial intelligence (AI). “We are following respondents over time to understand how these interactions evolve,” she explains.
The team recently published an article in the journal PNAS Nexus on patterns and disparities in AI adoption during the first 18 months following the introduction of ChatGPT. Additionally, she is working on two more papers exploring changes in trust and attitudes toward AI, as well as the impacts of AI on the labor market.
A Bright Future for Economics Students
The M.A. in Economics program at CSUF equips students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in today’s data-driven world. Whether through mastering econometric techniques, exploring the latest technology tools, or engaging in impactful research, students leave the program prepared to make meaningful contributions to their fields. For more information, read more of our articles on the M.A. in Economics.
