Professor VanGilder (chair); Associate Professor Nicoara; Assistant Professors Aukers, Henkel, King, Shoeb, Yan; Visiting Professors and Instructors Chaudhary, Stern, Cooper, Ricciardi, Sereni.

The Department of Business and Economics offers a variety of programs to prepare students for careers in the public and private sectors and studies in graduate or professional school. Programs include majors in Economics and Finance as well as minors in Accounting, Economics, Finance, and Management Studies. The Economics major develops a broad perspective on the allocation of resources as well as skills in applying economic theory and data to real-world problems. The Finance major prepares students to contribute to society at financial institutions and within the finance and accounting functions of both for-profit and non-profit organizations.

The major in Business Economics prepare students to analyze factors impacting businesses both quantitatively and qualitatively. These skills provide a solid background for a variety of professions as well as prepare students for advanced education. After graduation, Economics and Finance majors are prepared to work independently and effectively in a dynamic environment where resources are scarce, information is over-abundant or uncertain, and decisions are often morally complex. Students gain experience and skills in teamwork and are challenged to recognize the moral elements of situations, the impacts of their decisions and actions on others, and are empowered to choose courses of action that are ethically sound.

Minors offered by the Department of Business and Economics complement the studies of students majoring in any discipline.

Requirements for Economics Majors

A major in economics consists of 44–48 credits, comprised of the following courses:

• Three foundational courses: ECON-101,102,151. The ECON-151 requirement will be waived for students who receive a C- or better in both MATH-111 (or a higher-level calculus course) and STAT-141Q (or a higher-level statistics course).
• Three intermediate courses: ECON-200W, 201, and 202.
• ECON-300Q.
• Four electives from the following list: ECON-210, 213, 223, 231, 263, 311, 312, 313, 314, 330, 361, 362; FIN-374.
• The economics capstone seminar: (ECON-403W). Qualified students may substitute BE-491 and 492W for the capstone requirement.

Economics Capstone

All students who major in Economics can fulfill the college’s capstone, writing, and oral presentation requirements with ECON-403W. Qualified students may substitute BE-491 and 492W for the capstone requirement.

Graduate Study in Economics

Students considering entering a doctoral program in economics after graduation are advised to take MATH-111, 112, 211, 234, and 311W as well as CS-173. Coursework in probability, statistics, and data analytics is also valuable preparation for doctoral work in the field. Research experience is also desirable. The BE department recommends students discuss their interest in graduate school with their academic advisers.

Requirements for Finance Major

A major in finance consists of 44–48 credits comprised of the following courses:

• Five foundational courses: ECON-101, 102, 151; ACCT-140; FIN-270. The ECON-151 requirement will be waived for students who receive a C- or better in both MATH-111 (or a higher- level calculus course) and STAT-141Q (or a higher-level statistics course).
• One intermediate economics course – either ECON-201 or 202.
• FIN-200W
• ECON-300Q
• Either three finance electives from the following list: FIN-213, 262, 313, 370, 372, 374; ECON-362; or two of the preceding finance electives and one accounting elective from the following list: ACCT-240, 241 or 242.
• The finance capstone (FIN-403W). Qualified students may substitute BE-491 and 492W for the capstone (FIN-403W) requirement.

Finance Capstone

All students who major in Finance can fulfill the college’s capstone, writing, and oral presentation requirements with FIN-403W. Qualified students may substitute BE-491 and 492W for the capstone requirement.

Graduate Study in Finance

Students considering entering a doctoral program in finance after graduation are advised to take MATH-111, 112, 211, 234, and 311W as well as CS-173. Coursework in probability, statistics, and data analytics is also valuable preparation for doctoral work in the field. The BE department recommends students discuss their interest in graduate school with their academic advisers.

Requirements for Business Economics Major

A major in Business Economics consists of 44–52 credits comprised of the following courses:

• Four foundational courses: ECON-101, 102, 151, 200W, 201; ACCT-140; The ECON-151 requirement will be waived for students who receive a C- or better in both MATH-111 (or a higher- level calculus course) and STAT-141Q (or a higher-level statistics course).
• MGT-200
• MGT-201

Concentration Elective Requirements

All Business Economics majors must concentrate in Analytics, Entrepreneurship, Management, or Marketing. The following courses do not count as elective credit for the major in Business Economics: ECON-120; BE-381, 382, 391, 392, 394, 491, and 492W; FIN-001–004, 010, 011, 100, 272, 301, 302, 401, 402, and 403W.

Analytics Concentration

• DATA-201 or ECON-300
• ECON-403W
• eight credits from ACCT-241, PSYC-250, MCS-350, ENTR-101, ENTR-102, ECON-231, ECON 312, MKT-250, FIN-374, and MGT-300

Entrepreneurship Concentration

• ENTR-101 and 102
• either ECON-403W or MGT-403W 
• eight credits from ACCT-241, PSYC-250, ECON-231, ECON-312, MCS-350, MKT-250, ECON-310, FIN-370, ENTR-120, and MGT-300

Management Concentration

• Two courses from: ACCT-241, MCS-350, PSYC-250 
• MGT-403W
• eight credits from ENTR-101, ENTR-102, MKT-250, ECON-210, ECON-231, ECON-312, FIN-370, MGT-330, and MGT-300

Marketing Concentration

• ECON-231, MGT-403W and MKT-250 
• eight credits of electives from ACCT-241, PSYC-250, ECON-231, MCS-350, ENTR-101, ENTR-102, ECON-310, FIN-370, and MGT-300

Business Economics Capstone

All students who major in Business Economics can fulfill the college’s capstone, writing, and oral presentation requirements with either ECON-403W or MGT-403W (depending on concentration). Qualified students may substitute BE-491 and 492W for the capstone requirement.

Requirements for Accounting Minor

A minor in accounting consists of 20 credits: ACCT-140; 240, 241, 242; and FIN-270.

Accounting Careers

Students interested in careers in accounting are encouraged to complete the Accounting minor. Many Ursinus graduates work in the field of accounting after graduation, but state boards of accountancy mandate 150 credit hours of coursework before candidates may sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. Students must therefore take additional courses after graduation to become a CPA. Students should also be aware that there are other accounting certifications and career paths separate from the CPA, such as the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation.

Requirements for Economics Minor

A minor in economics consists of 20 credits, including eight credits from two required courses: ECON-101, 102; and three ECON electives at the 200-level or higher. Note: 200-level courses may have additional pre-requisites besides ECON-101 and 102. As pertaining to the normal limitations on major/minor overlap, Business Economics and Finance majors may only count two courses of their major requirements toward the minor.

Requirements for Finance Minor

A minor in Finance consists of 20 credits including 12 credits from three required courses: ACCT-140; ECON-102, FIN-270, and eight credits from two electives chosen from the following list: ECON-362; FIN-370, 372, 374. Elective courses may have additional prerequisites besides ACCT-140 and FIN-270. As pertaining to the normal limitations on major/minor overlap, Economics and Business Economics majors may only count two courses of their major requirements toward the minor.

Finance Scholars

This program is offered to selected students with a strong career interest in finance and investments with the potential goal of earning the Chartered Financial Analyst (“CFA”) designation. The program involves a range of relevant co-curricular activities (FIN-301, 302, 401, and 402) that prepare students to take the CFA examination. Eligible students must major in Finance or Economics or minor in Finance. Students must apply to the Department Chair or the chair’s designee for acceptance to the program at the end of their sophomore year.

UCIMCO

The Ursinus College Investment Management Company (UCIMCO) is the college’s student-managed investment fund. The fund manages several portfolios, exposing students to different management styles and group collaboration. There are no prerequisites to taking part in the fund. Students from any class year or major are encouraged to join. For students interested in investment or financial careers, the fund provides invaluable experience in research and portfolio management. To take part in UCIMCO, students should enroll in a section of FIN-001. 

Requirements for Management Studies Minor

A minor in Management Studies requires that students take 24 semester hours in courses across several disciplines. All Management Studies minors are required to take ACCT-140 and MGT-200. In addition students are required to select one course focused on ethics from PHIL-240 or 246, MCS-315, HEP-275, EDUC-380, MGT-201 and 300 (Leadership Ethics) and three elective courses (12 credits) chosen from the following list and representing three different disciplines and at least two different departments or programs: Business and Economics (ACCT-240, 241; or ECON-120, 210, 231, 361; or MKT-250; or MGT-300, 330); Data Analytics (DATA-201); Entrepreneurial Studies (ENTR-101 and -102, 120); Health Sciences (HS-223, 226, 245, 365, or 446); Interdivisional Studies (IDS-110 depending on topic); Media and Communications Studies (MCS-307, 315, 342, 350, or 375B); Psychology (PSYC-250 or 350); Sociology (SOC-255 or 260 depending on topic). (LINQ)

Note: Following normal overlap limitation guidelines, majors in Economics and Finance are permitted to minor in Management Studies, however due to major/minor overlap Business Economics majors may not pursue the Management Studies Minor. See the appropriate departmental listings for course descriptions.

Secondary School Teaching Certification

This program satisfies the Pennsylvania State requirements for secondary certification in social studies. Substantial further coursework outside of economics and education is required in order to prepare the student for subjects taught in the secondary curriculum. Students who wish to obtain teaching certification should consult their departmental adviser and the chair of the department of education as early as possible, preferably at the end of the freshman year.

S/U Guidance

Courses taken as S/U cannot not be counted towards any major or minor in the Business and Economics Department.

Accounting

ACCT-140 Financial Accounting and Reporting

An introduction to financial accounting concepts, standards and reports. Emphasis on the accounting cycle, journal entries, relationships between the income statement, balance sheet and statement of cash flows and relevance of accounting information to decision making. Excel applications of accounting problems. Three hours of lecture; two hours of computer laboratory per week. Four semester hours.

ACCT-213 Topics in Accounting

An occasional course focusing on a special topic in accounting. Prerequisites will vary. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

ACCT-240 Topics in Advanced Financial Reporting

An in-depth study of selected topics related to financial reporting and disclosure, including their impact on decisions by managers, investors and creditors. Prerequisite: A grade of C- or higher in ACCT-140. 

ACCT-241 Management Accounting

The study of accounting information used internally by managers for planning and controlling business activities and decision-making. Emphasis is on cost concepts and behavior, costing systems for products and services, budgeting, breakeven and variance analysis. Prerequisite: A grade of C- or higher in ACCT-140. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

ACCT-242 Federal Income Tax Policy

An introduction to the principles and policies of the federal income tax code, with focus on issues affecting corporations, partnerships and individuals. Prerequisite: A grade of C- or higher in ACCT-140. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

ACCT-313 Advanced Topics in Accounting

An occasional course focusing on a special topic in accounting involving advanced reading, theory, quantitative analysis, writing, or some combination of the four. Prerequisites will vary. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

Business and Economics

BE 001-004 Community Service Practicum

This practicum allows students to volunteer and collaborate with a local non-profit organization. Placement is based on availability, student interest and qualifications. Special classroom training may be needed. Students report to a supervisor and faculty advisor, keep a journal of their activities, and write a research paper. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing and permission of the chair. A minimum of 40 hours. Grade: S/U. One semester hour.

Students may take up to four credits of Community Service Practicum. Completion of the Community Service Practicum does not satisfy the XLP requirement for the college.

BE-005-008. Readings in Business and Economics

Individual study and directed reading of a particular topic or book within the discipline. Students will work closely with a member of the BE faculty in selecting, reading, and discussing the topic, and in determining a proper written assignment. Prerequisites: Permission of the instructor. Grade: S/U. One semester hour.

Students may take up to four credits of Readings in Business and Economics

BE-381. Internship

An academic/work experience under the supervision of a faculty internship adviser and an on-site supervisor. Students must document their experience according to the requirements delineated in the College catalog section on Internships. Students are required to document their experiences in a written journal. A poster presentation of the experience is required. Contact the chair of the department for further details. Open to juniors and seniors. The term during which the internship work is performed will be noted by one of the following letters, to be added immediately after the internship course number: A (fall), B (winter), C (spring), or D (summer). Internships undertaken abroad will be so indicated by the letter I. The intern must complete a minimum of 120 hours of work. Prerequisites: Four courses in the major and prior written approval of a faculty internship adviser. Graded S/U. Three semester hours. (XLP.)

BE-382. Internship

An academic/work experience under the supervision of a faculty internship adviser and an on-site supervisor. Students must document their experience according to the requirements delineated in the College catalog section on Internships. Students are required to document their experiences in a written journal. A poster presentation of the experience is required. Contact the chair of the department for further details. Open to juniors and seniors. The term during which the internship work is performed will be noted by one of the following letters, to be added immediately after the internship course number: A (fall), B (winter), C (spring), or D (summer). Internships undertaken abroad will be so indicated by the letter I. The intern must complete a minimum of 160 hours of work. Prerequisites: Four courses in the major and prior written approval of a faculty internship adviser. Graded S/U. Four semester hours.  (XLP.)

BE-391. Research/Independent Study

Independent investigation of an area of business or economics not covered in regular courses. Prerequisite: Completion of Economics, Business Economics or Finance major core and written consent of a department faculty member. Graded S/U. One semester hour.

Note: This course may be taken more than once.

BE-392. Research/Independent Study

Independent investigation of an area of business or economics not covered in regular courses. Prerequisite: Completion of Economics, Business Economics, or Finance major core and written consent of a department faculty member. Graded S/U. Two semester hours.

Note: This course may be taken more than once.

BE-394.Research/Independent Study

Independent investigation of an area of business or economics not covered in regular courses. Prerequisite: Completion of Economics, Business Economics, or Finance major core and written consent of a department faculty member. An oral presentation to the department is required. Graded S/U. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

Note: This course may be taken more than once. This course always fulfills the XLP requirement for the college.

BE-491. Research/Independent Study

Preparation of an independent research paper. Open only to candidates for departmental honors or to fourth-year majors with the permission of the department chair. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

BE-492. Research/Independent Study

A continuation of BE-491. Prerequisite: BE-491. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

Economics

ECON-101. Principles of Microeconomics

An introduction to the economic study of consumers and firms through the framework of supply and demand. The course presents an overview of different market structures, economic decision making, and foundational economic models. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (SS.)

ECON-102. Principles of Macroeconomics

The course covers the foundations of the macro-economy. Concepts of the price system, measurements of economic performance, macro models, monetary and fiscal policies, and the time value of money will be introduced. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (SS.)

ECON-120. Contemporary Global Economic Issues

This course examines a variety of contemporary economic issues in low and middle-income countries (LMiCs). Economic theory provides the basis of the analysis. Specific issues may vary from semester to semester, and will include how LMiCs have dealt with or reacted to some or all of the following: the environment, the labor market, health care, government regulation, monetary and fiscal policy, international economics, and social policy. Students will participate in debates and critically evaluate current events. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (GN, SS.)

Note: Students who have received credit for ECON-101 or 102 may not enroll in ECON-120 nor may ECON-120 be taken concurrently with ECON-101 or 102. 

ECON-151. Analytic Foundations in Economics and Finance

This course covers the essential quantitative principles necessary for majors in both Economics and Finance. Mathematical topics include a review of algebra, functions, graphs, logarithms, and differentiation. Instruction in statistics will take a conceptual approach that covers sampling, randomness, probability, distributions, hypothesis testing, confidence intervals, correlation, and linear regression. Pre- or co-requisite: ECON-101 or -102. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (Q, R.)

Note: Students may satisfy the requirement for this course with a C- or better in MATH-111 and STAT-141.

Note: Students with credit for ECON-150 may not enroll in ECON-151.

ECON-200W. Research Methods in Economics

This course is an introduction to research within Economics. Topics include writing conventions within the discipline, presentation development, synthesizing data, and culmination of analysis across different genres. Students will manipulate data using Excel to help support their arguments. Prerequisites: a grade of C– or higher in ECON-101 or a grade of C– or higher in ECON-102. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

ECON-201. Managerial Economics

This course develops the tools and theories of some microeconomic models and introduces elements of behavioral economics. Topics covered include utility, consumer theory, producer theory, monopoly, imperfect competition, risk aversion, externalities, principal-agent problems, moral hazard, and adverse selection. Topics will be examined from the viewpoint of both consumers and firms. Prerequisite: A grade of C– or higher in ECON-101 and either a grade of C- or higher in ECON-151 or a waiver for ECON-151. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

ECON-202. Intermediate Macroeconomics

The study of inflation, unemployment and economic growth within the context of the world economy. An examination of how exchange rates, taxes and central bank policies affect businesses and the performance of the U.S. economy. Prerequisite: A grade of C– or higher in ECON-101 and either a grade of C- or higher in ECON 151 or a waiver for ECON-151. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

ECON/GWSS-210. Race and Gender in the American Economy

The study of the issues of race and gender in the U.S. economy. We will evaluate the economic status of racial minorities and women. Issues include occupational segregation, wage differentials, educational attainment, affirmative action and labor market discrimination. . Prerequisites: ECON-101 or ECON-102 or permission of instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (DN, SS.)

ECON-213. Topics in Economics

An occasional course focusing on a special topic in economics. Prerequisites will vary. Prerequisites will vary. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

ECON-223. Economies in Transition

Students will investigate why some countries are relatively rich while other countries are poor within the context of the former communist economies in Central and Eastern Europe, including the Baltic region. Coursework is centered on experiential learning through three weeks of intensive field study in the Eastern Bloc and the Former Soviet Countries. Visits to local establishments, old and new organizations, lectures, and historical and cultural sites, field research are among other activities. Offered for three weeks during the summer. Prerequisites: ECON-101 or 102; or permission of instructor. Four semester hours. (GN, SS, XLP.)

ECON-231. Behavioral Economics

A study of economic models in which standard economic rationality assumptions are relaxed. Models will include psychologically plausible assumptions on behavior. New models improve ability to predict and understand behavioral phenomena including altruism, trust and reciprocity, procrastination, and self-control. Prerequisites: A grade of C– or higher in ECON-101. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

ECON-263. Development Economics

An introduction to the study of various challenges facing low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Focusing on the understanding the nature and the contribution of economic, cultural and political institutions. Approaches to progress are reviewed. Case studies of successful and unsuccessful LMICs will be examined. Prerequisites: ECON-102 or permission of instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (GN, SS.)

ECON-300Q. Econometrics

Econometric methods used in analyzing business and economic data, including hypothesis testing, trend analysis, and forecasting of behavioral decisions by consumers and firms. Topics include the specification, estimation and verification of multiple regression and time series models. Laboratory experience includes statistical software usage. A research paper presenting original data analysis is required. Prerequisites: ECON-200W or FIN-200W; ECON-201 or 202. Three hours of lecture; two hours of laboratory per week. Four semester hours. (SS.)

ECON-311. Health Economics

Discussion of various topics including the supply and demand of health care, health professionals’ services, facilities and pharmaceuticals. Government policies concerning Medicare and Medicaid are analyzed. International comparisons of health care delivery systems are discussed. Prerequisite: ECON-200W and 201 or permission of instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

ECON-312. Labor Economics

A theoretical and empirical study of the functioning of labor markets, with emphasis on employment and compensation determination as affected by worker and firm characteristics, public policy, and worker organizations. Prerequisite: ECON-200W and 201. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

ECON-313. Advanced Topics in Economics

An occasional course focusing on a special topic in economics involving advanced reading, theory, quantitative analysis, writing, or some combination of the four. Prerequisites will vary. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

ECON-314. The Economics of Sports

The study of introductory economics and business using topics in sports and sports business. Professional, amateur, college and recreational sports will be analyzed. Prerequisites: ECON-200W. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (SS.)

ECON-361. International Trade Theory and Policy

An exploration of the factors that contribute to international trade and globalization. Topics include gains from trade, firm motivation, and government policies. Ongoing discussion analyzing current trade problems, prescriptions and legislation. Prerequisite: ECON-200W and 201. Three hours per week.Four semester hours.

ECON-362. International Finance Theory and Policy

An examination of foreign exchange rate markets as they relate to multinational corporations. The key factors that influence exchange rates and international capital flows will be studied. The course will also consider policies that governments use to influence the foreign exchange market. Prerequisite: ECON-200W. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

ECON-403W Seminar in Economics

This course is both the capstone for the applied economics major’s concentration in economics and a college core capstone. The course provides an opportunity to synthesize and apply the theory and methods of economics. Interdisciplinary perspectives will help illuminate for students what makes economics distinctive from other ways of knowing. Students will reflect on their experiences in the field and how those experiences influence their responses to the question, “What will I do?” These objectives will be met through reading and discussion of influential economic thinkers; writing a reflective journal; a review of econometric methods; and the research, writing, and presentation of a capstone paper. Prerequisites: Completion of all other required courses in the major and two electives in the Economics major, or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (CCAP.)

Finance

FIN-001. Student-Managed Investment Fund (UCIMCO)

In this course students will oversee and manage an investment fund. From selecting the portfolio to communicating about investment analysis, students will assume a variety of roles related to fund maintenance. Offered every semester. This course may be repeated for credit. Students are limited to counting a total of eight credits across all FIN-00X courses toward graduation requirements One hour per week. One semester hour.

Note: This course does not satisfy any department requirements.

FIN-005. UCIMCO Leader

In this course student leaders will oversee and manage the UCIMCO organization. Student leaders are elected by the organization. This course may be repeated for credit. Students are limited to counting a total of eight credits across all FIN-00X courses toward graduation requirements. Offered every semester. Two hours per week. Two semester hours.

Note: This course does not satisfy any department requirements.

FIN-100. Personal Finance

As the financial world becomes more complex, the need for financial literacy grows. This course is open to all students and intended to prepare them for post-Ursinus life. The nature and scope of the economy and how it affects one’s life plans and goals will be examined. Topics include supply and demand, financial planning, personal taxes, retirement planning, investing in stocks and bonds, portfolio management, the time value of money, managing credit cards and debt, and insurance planning. Four hours per week for half a semester or two hours per week for a full semester. Two semester hours.

Note: This course does not satisfy any department requirements.

FIN-200W. Research Methods in Finance

Students develop an understanding of best practices in research and communication about financial topics, including investments, organizational finances, and financial institutions. The course emphasizes the creation of documents and presentations that make use of clear and engaging writing, speaking, slides and charts. Students will learn how to use a variety of software, particularly spreadsheets. Students will also examine professional standards of ethics and objectivity in financial research. Prerequisites: ECON-101 and 102. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

FIN-213. Topics in Finance

An occasional course focusing on a special topic in finance. Prerequisites will vary. Prerequisites will vary. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

FIN-262. Corporate Valuation and Financial Modeling

This course explores the fundamentals of valuation methods and financial modeling techniques. Students will consider the theory and practical challenges associated with forecasting as well as the ethical and social implications of the standard approaches used in contemporary valuation. Prerequisites: ACCT-140 and one of ECON-101 or 102. Four semester hours.

FIN-270. Introduction to Finance

An introduction to the core subjects of finance. Topics include financial markets and institutions, the interpretation of financial statements, methods for estimating the value and risk of financial securities, and theories that explain interest rates. Prerequisites: A grade of C– or higher in ACCT-140 and ECON-102. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

FIN-301. Finance Scholars I

This course is restricted to students admitted to the Finance Scholars program. Content is oriented to the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Relevant co-curricular activities are required. Offered fall semester. Prerequisites: Major concentration or minor in Accounting and Finance; Junior standing; Pre- or Co-Requisite: FIN-270. Grade: S/U. One hour per week. One semester hour.

Note: This course does not satisfy any department requirements.

FIN-302. Finance Scholars II

This course is restricted to students admitted to the Finance Scholars program. Content is oriented to the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Relevant co-curricular activities are required. Offered spring semester. Prerequisite: FIN-301. Grade: S/U. One hour per week. One semester hour.

Note: This course does not satisfy any department requirements.

FIN-313. Advanced Topics in Finance

An occasional course focusing on a special topic in finance involving advanced work in theory, quantitative analysis, writing, or some combination of the four. Prerequisites will vary. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

FIN-370. Corporate Finance

A study of the basic issues and principles involved in the financing of corporations: corporate structure, short- and long-term financing instruments, expansion, failure, and reorganization. This course will employ case studies, and a semester project will require students to use financial analysis and forecasting techniques. Prerequisite: FIN-200W and FIN-270; or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

FIN-372. Investments

A survey of securities and security markets. Through the study of texts and market data, students explore the characteristics of stocks, bonds, and derivatives, paying particular attention to the measurement of returns and risk. In the process, students develop their understanding of market efficiency, fundamental analysis, technical analysis, behavioral finance, and ethical issues related to investment management. Prerequisite: FIN-200W and FIN-270; or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

FIN-374. Money and Financial Institutions

An in-depth understanding of the role of money and financial institutions in the economy. Money-related topics include monetary systems, money’s relationship to prices and economic growth, and theories of central banking. The course explores the characteristics common to all financial institutions, their role as intermediaries between savers and investors, and the nature and influence of regulations on financial institutions. Prerequisite: FIN-200W and ECON-102 or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

FIN-401. Finance Scholars III

This course is restricted to students admitted to the Finance Scholars program. Content is oriented to the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Relevant co-curricular activities are required. Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: FIN-302. Grade: S/U. One hour per week. One semester hour.

Note: This course does not satisfy any department requirements.

FIN-402. Finance Scholars IV

This course is restricted to students admitted to the Finance Scholars program. Content is oriented to the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Relevant co-curricular activities are required. Offered spring semester. Prerequisite: FIN-401. Grade: S/U. One hour per week. One semester hour.

Note: This course does not satisfy any department requirements.

FIN-403W. Seminar in Finance

This course is both the capstone for the finance major and a college core capstone. The course provides an opportunity to synthesize and apply the theory and methods of economics and finance. Students will reflect on ethical challenges that finance professionals encounter. In addition, students will consider sociological and psychological perspectives on the field of finance. Through this process, students will develop their outlooks on the question, “What will I do?” These objectives will be met through reading and discussion of texts on ethics; a reflection paper; a review of econometric methods; and the research, writing, and presentation of a capstone paper. Prerequisites: Completion of all other required courses in the major, ACCT-140, FIN-270 and one elective in the Finance major, or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (CCAP.)

Management Studies

MGT-200. Management and Organizational Behavior

The study of theories and practices in the field of organizational behavior. Organizations are made up of individuals and groups of people resulting in a complex psychological, sociological and social psychological environment within which individuals must interact and effectively function. Focus is on understanding, explaining, and ultimately improving the attitudes and behaviors of individuals and groups in organizations. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

MGT-201. Business Ethics and Practices

The study of theories and practices in the fields of management and ethics through a human centered lens. Management is directly responsible for whether the organization’s efforts produce its desired results in an ethical manner. The focus is on understanding management and the pursuit of an organizations goals efficiently and effectively by integrating the work of people through planning, organizing, leading, and controlling the organization’s resources and the ethical challenges and considerations that arise during these processes. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

MGT-300. Topics in Management Studies

Contemporary topics in management are discussed such as organizational leadership, human resource management and international business. Prerequisite: sophomore standing or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

MGT-330. Strategic Analysis

A case-oriented course in strategy and strategic management taught from the perspective of the firm’s top management team as they seek to achieve a competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving business world. Prerequisite: MGT-200. Three hours per week. Four semester hours

Note: Students who have taken ECON-330 can not enroll in MGT-330.

MGT-403W. Seminar in Management and Marketing

Issues in Management and Marketing are discussed using a cross-disciplinary approach. Course will incorporate the development and exploration of a student-selected, independent research topic, culminating in a written and oral presentation. Three hours per week. Prerequisites: Completion of required courses in the Business Economics major and two electives in the Management, Marketing or Entrepreneurship concentration. Three hours per week.  Four semester hours.

MKT-250. Marketing

The study of market analysis, consumer behavior and the four components of the marketing mix—product, price, promotion and distribution. Marketing issues will be examined through case studies and projects utilizing marketing research and analytical techniques. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.

MKT-350. Marketing Research

Focuses on fundamental issues in research design and analysis: problem formulation, data collection, sample selection, data analysis and interpretation. Topics include the economic aspects of pricing strategies, advertising, inter and intra market rivalries, entry and barriers to new markets, and regulations. A marketing research paper is required. Prerequisites: MKT-250. Three hours per week. Four semester hours.