Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Finance

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

John Cabot University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Finance at John Cabot University in Rome offers rigorous classes in core areas like microeconomics, macroeconomics, finance, and econometrics, helping you grasp global economic trends and their real-world effects while blending in liberal arts topics such as the history of economic thought and business ethics. It's perfect for students who want to build strong analytical skills for careers in business, policy, or grad school, all within an exciting American liberal arts program abroad that emphasizes critical thinking and international perspectives.

Curriculum Structure
First Year
You'll kick off with foundational courses that build your economic toolkit, diving into Principles of Microeconomics to explore how individuals and firms make decisions in markets, Principles of Macroeconomics to understand big-picture issues like growth and inflation, and introductory math or stats for quantitative confidence. This year sets a solid base, mixing econ basics with JCU's liberal arts requirements to spark your curiosity about how economies really work. By the end, you'll already see connections between theory and everyday global events.

Second Year
Building momentum, you'll tackle Intermediate Microeconomics for deeper analysis of consumer behavior and market structures, Intermediate Macroeconomics to model national economies and policy impacts, plus Quantitative Methods to sharpen your data skills. These courses ramp up the rigor, teaching you to use models and stats to dissect real issues like trade or unemployment. It's an exciting phase where concepts start clicking into practical insights.

Third and Fourth Years
Upper-level electives let you specialize, with gems like International Economics on global trade and finance flows, Corporate Finance covering investment and valuation, and Econometrics for testing theories with data—capped by a Senior Seminar on policy papers, ethical communication, and CFA standards. You'll refine arguments, interpret evidence, and prepare for pro careers through advanced topics and hands-on projects. The final stretch hones your edge for grad school or jobs, all while enjoying Rome's vibrant scene.

Focus Areas
Microeconomics and macroeconomics, finance, econometrics, international economics, economic history, and business ethics—tailored to global trends and quantitative rigor.

Learning Outcomes
Develop critical thinking, data interpretation, empirical analysis, and clear communication of economic ideas; master tools for policy, business, and ethical decision-making in a complex world.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
JCU is a CFA® Institute University Affiliation Program member since 2013, embedding much of the CFA Candidate Body of Knowledge into the curriculum, and the Frank J. Guarini School of Business holds AACSB accreditation since 2022—one of the first for American universities in Europe.

Reputation (Employability)
Economics and finance grads are prized for their analytical prowess and international experience at an American university abroad; the program opens doors to top grad schools and careers in business, law, policy, and more, backed by faculty who've published globally and JCU's liberal arts excellence.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At John Cabot University, our Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Finance stands out for its strong focus on experiential learning, where you'll build practical skills through hands-on application of economic theory right alongside your core classes in microeconomics, macroeconomics, finance, and econometrics. You'll dive into real-world analysis using empirical data and historical evidence, honing critical thinking and quantitative tools that employers love, all while benefiting from our CFA Institute University Affiliation Program status—which embeds industry standards and ethics into your studies for a competitive edge. This approach turns classroom knowledge into actionable expertise, preparing you to tackle global trends and policy challenges with confidence.

Here are some standout ways our program delivers that hands-on experience::

- CFA-aligned projects and senior seminars: Tackle position papers, policy analysis, and ethical case studies drawn from the CFA Candidate Body of Knowledge, practicing professional communication and standards used in finance careers.
- Quantitative and empirical tools: Master analytical software and stats through econometrics courses, interpreting real data sets to model economic issues—no generic drills, just rigorous, evidence-based practice.
- Group-based learning in core classes: Collaborate on assignments in economics and finance courses that emphasize well-documented arguments and team analysis of current social and economic problems.
- EXP experiential 1-credit electives: Short, focused courses (up to three in your degree) for targeted practical skills, offered on specific Fridays—perfect for supplementing your major with real-world application.
- Academic advising for internships and careers: Personalized guidance from expert faculty (many with peer-reviewed publications) to pursue internships, leveraging Rome's finance hub and our business network.

Imagine applying to a program where you're not just learning economics—you're living it in Rome. This is your chance to gain skills that open doors to top grad schools, business, policy, or finance roles.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Finance at John Cabot University develop strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills that open doors across finance, business, and policy sectors. You’ll be prepared for roles such as financial analyst, risk manager, policy analyst, and investment professional, with a versatile profile valued globally.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

Career support services: The university’s Career Services team provides one-on-one advising, career workshops, company visits, and career fairs to help you build a strong professional profile
Internship access & industry exposure: You’ll benefit from internship opportunities and connections with over 200 partner companies and international organizations
Strong employment outcomes: Around 81% of students secure internships and 82% report satisfaction with career support, reflecting strong employability outcomes
Industry-relevant curriculum: The program focuses on practical learning, data analysis, and finance skills aligned with real-world business and economic needs
Professional accreditation advantage: The degree is affiliated with the CFA Institute University Affiliation Program, adding strong long-term value for careers in finance and investment
Wide career pathways after graduation: Graduates move into areas like accounting, corporate finance, financial planning, hedge funds, real estate, risk management, and public policy

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this program, you can pursue advanced studies such as a Master’s in Economics, Finance, Data Analytics, or an MBA. The solid foundation in quantitative methods and research also prepares you for specialized fields like econometrics or quantitative finance, as well as professional certifications such as the CFA, helping you progress into senior and global roles.