Students studying economics and finance explore how the world economy works and take additional courses in finance that teach skills in managing the assets of an organization in relation to national and global economic changes.
Why should I study economics and finance?
This major is designed to help build quantitative and qualitative strategic thinking skills grounded in liberal arts and finance. This versatile major opens doors to careers in quantitative and strategic problem solving. It will help you:
- See the big picture between economics and finance
- Understand the world better
- Understand the choices people make
- Make informed business decisions
- Apply critical and abstract thinking in the context of economics and finance in the business field
What can I do with this degree?
- Corporate finance
- Financial analysis
- Retail metrics
- Banking (preparing statements and financials)
- Risk analysis
- Financial advising
- Investing (stocks, bonds, managing portfolios)
- Financial consultant or strategist
What skills will I develop?
- Qualitative and quantitative skills
- Challenging the assumptions behind model thinking
- Problem-solving skills
- Theory and application of theory
- Technical content
- Understanding economics and finance within a Christian worldview
- Making a material difference to business and the world
- Presenting data verbally and in writing to novices
- Economic theory and application of finance theory
- Integration of 2 emphases to elevate level of skill in these fields
- Abstract reasoning
- Business concepts
What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?
CFA Research Challenge
Our students compete in the CFA Institute Research Challenge, a global collegiate research and financial analysis competition.
Internships
All Business and Economics students will have an internship that fits their career interests. Our students have gained experiences at companies like Wells Fargo, Target, UnitedHealth Group, General Mills, Deloitte, and more.
90% or more alumni reported being prepared for current job
10% higher alumni first-time CPA exam pass rate over national average
Recent News
Liberal Arts Education Propels Alum's Journey From Spanish Major to Tech Firm President
July 24, 2017 | 3:30 p.m.
Web Design Students Work for More Than a Grade—They Work for Clients
July 20, 2017 | 3:30 p.m.
New center strengthens Bethel advising tradition
July 07, 2017 | 10:30 a.m.
Alumni Profile: John Brownlee ’93
June 16, 2017 | 4 p.m.
Upcoming Events
SEPT 26 2017
Owning It: Money and Power for Young Women
5 p.m. The Underground
Open to all female students, particularly freshmen: Enjoy a free meal and learn about investment management.
OCT 25 2017
Project Ex: Explore, Experience, Execute
9 a.m. Benson Great Hall
Career development seminar and job fair for students in the College of Arts and Sciences
OCT 25 2017
Project Ex Internship and Job Fair: Student Registration
1 p.m. The Underground
Connecting students with employers
Bethel really prepared me...having a liberal arts education was beneficial because it made me well rounded. [Businesses] look for people with all sorts of different backgrounds and leadership experience. Bethel encourages people to get involved.
Nicole (Nettleton) Willenbring '12Current job: Business Analyst, Target Corporation
While interviewing with a Bethel alum for a position at UnitedHealth Group, the interviewer asked me to consider joining the International Audit department instead of the position for which I had applied. At the time, I had next to no idea what working in International Audit entailed! That same Bethel alum also connected me to the Healthcare Reform opportunity three years later. So, it’s safe to say that my career path was undeniably influenced by Bethel and this wonderful alum who decided to take a chance on me – not just once, but twice.
Chin-Chin Lin '09Current job: Project Manager, Health Care Reform Implementation, UnitedHealth Group
As a Christian in the workplace, I am able to connect with people on a different level. I know my reason for being there and do my part to create an encouraging work environment for my coworkers. I hope my attitude is a positive example observable through the way I make decisions, treat my clients, and strive for excellence every day.
Andrew Vennerstrom '07Current job: Customer Account Manager, Frozen Organic Products, General Mills
I’m so grateful for my Bethel experience! I cultivated deep friendships and had wonderful leadership and spiritual development opportunities. Combined with, the learning experience and faculty relationships through the Communications and Business departments, it all prepared me for great leadership opportunities.
David Horsager '95, GS'07Current job: Author, Speaker, Consultant and CEO, Horsager Leadership, Inc.
