BSc Business Administration Major in Finance

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

American University of Sharjah

Program Overview

The BSc Business Administration Major in Finance at the American University of Sharjah combines a strong foundation in business with specialized economic analysis, preparing students to make data-driven decisions in business, finance, and policy. It is ideal for students who want to understand economic principles while gaining broad business skills for careers in consulting, government, finance, and multinational companies.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students build a solid business and economics foundation with courses like Principles of Microeconomics, Principles of Macroeconomics, and introductory business courses in management, accounting, and quantitative methods. These courses develop analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a strong grasp of how individuals and businesses operate within the economy.

Year 2:
The second year introduces intermediate economic theory and quantitative tools, including Intermediate Microeconomics, Intermediate Macroeconomics, Introduction to Econometrics, and Money and Banking. Students gain deeper understanding of market behaviour, financial systems, and the analytical skills needed for research, strategy, and policy applications.

Year 3:
Year three focuses on applied and managerial economics, with courses like Managerial Economics and advanced electives that allow students to explore global markets or specialized economic topics. This year emphasizes applying theory to real-world business and economic challenges, preparing students for professional decision-making.

Year 4:
The final year combines advanced electives and experiential learning, including a Business Internship in Economics. Students synthesize their knowledge to solve real-world problems, gain practical experience, and prepare for careers or postgraduate study in economics and business-related fields.

Focus Areas (in a string):

Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Managerial Economics, Money and Banking, Economic Policy Analysis, Business Strategy and Decision Making.

Learning Outcomes (in a string):

Graduates will be able to apply economic theory to business decisions, evaluate market and policy impacts, analyze data quantitatively, think critically, and communicate insights effectively in professional settings.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):

The program is part of the School of Business Administration, which holds AACSB accreditation, a global mark of excellence in business education. It is also officially recognized by UAE educational authorities.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):

AUS is highly regarded in the region for business education, with strong rankings and recognition in the UAE and globally, enhancing graduate employability in business, finance, government, and consulting sectors.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the American University of Sharjah (AUS), the BSc Business Administration Major in Finance is designed to combine solid theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world experience. From understanding markets and economic policy to analyzing business decisions, students gain hands-on skills that prepare them for professional success. Faculty members bring international research experience, integrating current global and regional economic challenges into the curriculum.

Here’s how experiential learning is delivered in this program:

Interactive Trading Floor (ITF): Students can work on a fully equipped trading floor that simulates real market environments, using live data and professional analysis tools to support projects and economic simulations.
Professional Internship Requirement: Students complete a professional internship where they spend several weeks working in companies or organizations, applying classroom knowledge to real-world business and economic challenges.
Applied Coursework & Group Projects: Courses include team-based projects and case studies, helping students develop collaboration, analytical, and professional communication skills.
Economics Seminar Series: The department hosts seminars with research presentations from scholars, giving students exposure to advanced economic research and analytical methods.
Career & Placement Support: AUS provides guidance in locating internships, networking with employers, and developing professional skills such as CV writing, interviews, and career planning.
Global Learning Environment: The multicultural campus environment allows students to interact with peers and industry professionals from diverse backgrounds, building valuable connections.
Library & Learning Resources: Students have access to extensive academic libraries and databases for economic research, data analysis, and project support.

What Makes This Program Stand Out

A rigorous, market-focused economics curriculum that balances theory with real-world applications.
Mandatory professional internships provide hands-on work experience before graduation.
Access to state-of-the-art facilities like the Interactive Trading Floor for applied learning.
Faculty-led research opportunities that allow students to engage with contemporary economic topics.
Career development services that support professional networking and placement.
Opportunities to present, debate, and participate in seminars and workshops for enhanced learning and industry exposure.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this program step into careers where economic insight meets strategic business thinking, shaping roles in finance, consulting, and policy both regionally and internationally. Common outcomes include Economic Analyst, Business Consultant, Financial Planner, and Market Research Specialist: all roles that draw on strong analytical and economic decision-making skills.

Why this degree will boost your career:

Career support that works for you: AUS’s Career Development Center helps students prepare for the workplace through personalised career coaching, resume and interview workshops, employer networking, and targeted internship placements with top local and global firms.
Strong employability outcomes: AUS Business graduates have a reputation for being workforce-ready, with many securing internships and full-time roles in sectors like banking, finance, consulting, and government agencies. Graduates benefit from practical, business-focused training that aligns with employer expectations.
Industry engagement and partnerships: The program offers exposure to real business environments via guest lectures, employer panels, and connections with companies that actively recruit AUS students in economics and related business disciplines.
Accredited and globally recognised: The Business Administration program at AUS is accredited by AACSB International, a gold standard for business schools worldwide. This global recognition enhances your degree’s value with employers and postgraduate institutions alike.
Career paths with growth: As an economics-focused business graduate, you’ll be prepared for roles such as economic analyst, financial consultant, industry strategist, business development associate, and policy advisor — all careers where analytical and economic skills are in demand.

Further Academic Progression:

After finishing your BSc in Business Administration with a major in Economics, you can advance your studies through:

A Master’s degree in fields such as Economics, Finance, Business Analytics, or Strategic Management
Professional certifications, like CFA or data analysis credentials, to deepen expertise in finance and economic strategy
PhD pathways if you’re passionate about academic research or high-level economic and business analysis