Why study applied business economics at BGSU inOhio?
- Learn from the experts. The department hosts conferences and colloquia each year that bring renowned economists to campus. We also host an undergraduate student paper contest and conference.
- Real-world experience. Build your resume through structured co-ops and internships. Our students are highly recruited by companies from every state and many countries. More than 90% of employers say they would hire their intern or co-op student as a permanent employee after graduation.
- National reputation. The Schmidthorst College of Business is ranked as the No. 13 best public business school for academic excellence by Poets&Quants in 2023. We are among the top 6% of business schools globally that are accredited by the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
- Global perspectives. Broaden your horizons with our extensive study abroad opportunities and form connections with university partners worldwide. Gain a global perspective that enhances your business acumen and sets you apart in the competitive job market.
- Expert faculty. Receive a cutting-edge education from our world-renowned faculty members who are actively involved in industry and bring current issues into the classroom. They are thought leaders whose trailblazing research shapes the future of business practice and theory.
- Strong corporate and alumni network. Connect with over 1,000 organizations through our strong corporate and alumni network. These relationships provide invaluable opportunities for mentorship, internships and future career paths.
- Community of support. The Business District is a live-in learning community in which residents forge connections with fellow business students and enjoy additional support and unique opportunities.
- An affordable education. Benefit from over $1 million in scholarships awarded annually to business majors. More than 90% of incoming students receive some form of financial aid.
- Career prep. Our dedicated career coach in the college will help you navigate your career journey with confidence. We are here to support your success – from your first internship to landing that full-time job.
- Economics Club. Share your interest in economics with your peers. We have workshops centered around career opportunities, graduate programs, important papers in the field and public policy.
- Vibrant student life. Learn teamwork, event organization and effective leadership in our 17 business student organizations. These groups consistently earn prestigious awards for their outstanding contributions.
Ranked among the top business schools in the U.S. for student experience
Sources:Poets&Quants, 2023
Career - what can you do with a specialization in applied business economics?
The BSBA specialization in applied business economics will give you an advantage in any field or job that requires skills in analyzing and predicting economic data and trends. Applied business economics graduates are well-equipped to shape economic outcomes in various sectors.
Graduates can become economists who provide crucial insights and policy recommendations to governments and organizations or financial analysts who help investors make informed decisions. They excel as market research analysts, management consultants, data analysts and real estate analysts who analyze trends, solve problems and maximize profitability.
Applied business economists also play vital roles in international trade, environmental policy, healthcare, insurance, agribusiness and government. They contribute to informed decision-making and resource allocation.
Students also are well prepared for graduate education in MBA programs or law school.
Career paths
- Agribusiness
- Consumer goods planning
- Environmental economist
- Health economist
- Research economist
- Research analyst – economist
- Federal Reserve or World Bank economist
- Data analyst
- Financial assistant
- Management consultant
- Policy analyst
Quick Facts from the Bureau of LaborStatistics
Curriculum
Applied economics majors take core business courses required for the BSBA. You also select a complementary area of study to combine with economics.
Choose from recommended course combinations in:
- Public policy
- Financial economics
- Economic forecasting and economic policy
- Market forecasting and market structures
- Global studies and global economic systems
- Politics and political economy
Other combinations are available to meet your specific career goals.
We also have incorporated the BGSU Life Design curriculum into our introductory business course. Faculty members, in collaboration with Life Design and career coaches, help you learn lifelong skills to craft a plan for your future and pivot when faced with challenges.
Required courses
Sample courses
- Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory
- Contemporary Economic Problems
- Health Economics
- Environmental Economics
- Economic Analytics
- Behavioral Economics
- Game Theory
- International Trade and Finance
- Introduction to the Analysis of Economic Data
- Money and Banking
Schmidthorst College of Business Specializations
The flexibility to complete one or more of our 12 specializations distinguishes us from other universities – and gives you a competitive edge in the job market.
- Accounting
- Applied Business Economics
- Business Analytics and Intelligence
- Finance
- Individualized Business
- Information Systems
- Insurance and Risk Management
- International Business
- Management
- Marketing
- Sales and Services Marketing
- Supply Chain Management
Premier entrepreneurship program
The Paul J. Hooker Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership at BGSU is one of 20 centers worldwide recognized by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
We weave entrepreneurship into all business programs and offer an entrepreneurship minor.
You can take courses in:
- Real estate entrepreneurship
- Women and social entrepreneurs
- Nonprofit and corporate responsibility
- Innovation and disruption
Top business leaders and entrepreneurs-in-residence bring real-world experience and expertise to our curriculum. A mentorship program connects students with alumni and industry leaders.
Thanks to an incubation program funded by alumni and supporters, more than $800,000 has been provided to student entrepreneurs to start their own ventures.
