The primary objective of the Department of Economics and Business is to provide students with a comprehensive program of study of economic problems, theories and policies within the context of the liberal arts educational tradition. Courses offered in the department fall roughly into four categories: principles and intermediate economic theory; quantitative tools and methods; basic business courses, such as principles of accounting, marketing and finance; and applied economics, such as public finance, international commerce, economic development, natural resources and urban economics. Preparation in economics and business leads to international trade, accounting and financial analysis and government and private economic research organizations. Department courses also provide an excellent foundation for graduate study in law, public policy and foreign affairs; many graduates pursue an MBA or advanced degree in economics.
The opportunity for students to test their career goals and apply classroom skills to actual work situations has long been an integral part of the Kalamazoo Plan. Students gain practical experience through internships, senior individualized projects (SIPs), a variety of opportunities provided through the L. Lee Stryker Center and the Small Business Institute (SBI) and banking internships offered through the Monroe Program in Money and Banking.
The economics and business department offers two tracks of study: a major in economics and business, which requires a total of nine units and a major in economics and business with an emphasis in business, public policy, or international commerce, any one of which requires ten units.
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