Enter OTP
This Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Business Economics combines economic insight with a strong foundation in business practices. It’s a great fit for students who enjoy analyzing data, understanding markets, and making informed business decisions in industries like consulting, finance, and public policy.
Curriculum structure:
Year 1: You’ll begin with the Carolina Core curriculum alongside foundational courses in business and economics. These include Principles of Microeconomics (ECON 221), Principles of Macroeconomics (ECON 222), Financial Accounting (ACCT 225), and Applied Statistics for Business (MGSC 291)—all designed to give you the essential tools for thinking critically and working with data.
Year 2: Your studies expand to the full business core, with subjects like Managerial Accounting (ACCT 226), Introduction to Finance (FINA 363), Principles of Management (MGMT 371), and Business Law (ACCT 324). You’ll gain a holistic understanding of how different functions operate within a business, all through the lens of economic thinking.
Year 3: This year brings a sharper focus on economics, featuring courses such as Intermediate Microeconomic Theory (ECON 321), Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory (ECON 322), and Introductory Econometrics (ECON 436). These courses give you hands-on experience with economic modeling, forecasting, and real-world application of data analysis.
Year 4: You’ll complete upper-level economics electives and, if you choose, add a business analytics concentration. With options like Investment Analysis, Accounting Information Systems, or advanced business analytics tools, you’ll shape your path toward a data-savvy business role that matches your interests and career goals.
Focus areas: Economic theory, business finance fundamentals, business analytics (optional), econometrics, and practical applications.
Learning outcomes: Graduates will analyze business decisions through an economic lens, apply statistical and econometric tools, communicate insights clearly, and evaluate business strategies with a data-driven mindset.
Professional alignment (accreditation): The program is part of the AACSB-accredited Darla Moore School of Business, blending business strategy and economics in a professionally aligned curriculum.
Reputation (employability rankings): The Darla Moore School is nationally recognized, especially for international business, and is consistently ranked among the top by U.S. News. Students benefit from a strong career services network and employer connections.
Students in the Business Economics program at the University of South Carolina develop practical skills through immersive projects and real-world experiences. The program emphasizes applying economic theory to business contexts, supported by internships and international exposure.
Capstone projects that challenge students to solve authentic business and economic problems.
Internships that provide hands-on experience in various industries.
Study abroad programs offering global perspectives on economic systems.
Opportunities to work collaboratively on real business cases, enhancing teamwork and analytical skills.
Graduates from this program typically find roles as business analysts, economic consultants, market research analysts, or financial advisors. The curriculum’s blend of economics and business skills prepares students for diverse industries.
USC’s Career Center provides specialized workshops, employer networking events, and internship placements tailored to Business Economics majors.
The university reports a strong employment rate with average starting salaries near $58,000, supported by its location in a vibrant business community.
USC maintains partnerships with companies such as Boeing, BlueCross BlueShield, and local financial institutions that offer internships and job opportunities.
The program’s accreditation through AACSB highlights its commitment to academic excellence and employer recognition.
Graduates have secured roles in sectors ranging from manufacturing and healthcare to finance and government.
Further Academic Progression:
After graduation, students may pursue MBAs, Master’s in Economics, or specialized graduate programs in finance and analytics. USC also encourages study abroad or certificate programs to enhance international business expertise.
Application Deadlines Regular Decision: December to JanuarySchool Report & Final Report RequiredSAT/ACT Policy Permanently test-optional Superscore policy not applicableLetters of Recommendation Not requiredEssays Common App essay USC-specific supplements typically required (250–650 words)High School Coursework Prerequisites College-prep curriculum including math, economics, and/or statisticsApplication to be done through USC Application or Common AppEconomist – Analyze economic data and trends to advise government agencies private corporations or consulting firms on policy markets or business strategyInvestment Banking Analyst – Support capital raising mergers and acquisitions and financial transactions by building detailed financial models and conducting valuations at investment banksData Analyst or Data Scientist – Use programming languages like Python R and SQL and statistical techniques to analyze large datasets and provide actionable insights for business or policy decisionsActuary – Combine economics statistics and mathematics to assess and manage financial risks for insurance companies pension funds and financial service firmsManagement Consultant – Advise organizations across industries on operational efficiency market entry and strategic challenges to improve overall performanceFinancial Analyst – Evaluate company financial statements market conditions and investment opportunities to guide corporate finance portfolio management or banking decisionsPolicy Analyst – Research and assess public policies related to economics labor health or education for think tanks NGOs or government agenciesQuantitative Analyst or Econometrician – Apply advanced quantitative methods and econometric models to forecast economic outcomes and guide investment or policy decisionsCertified Public Accountant CPA – Provide auditing tax planning and financial consulting services combine economic understanding with regulatory compliance in accounting firms or corporationsEconomic Researcher – Conduct academic or applied research for universities government bodies like the Federal Reserve or Bureau of Labor Statistics or international organizationsMarketing Analyst – Analyze consumer data and market trends to optimize pricing strategies product launches and promotional campaigns for corporationsFinancial Risk Analyst – Identify and quantify financial risks in banking insurance or corporate finance to develop risk mitigation strategiesInternational Development Specialist – Work on economic development projects focused on poverty reduction trade or policy reform for international agencies like USAID or the World BankFederal Reserve Analyst or Central Banker – Support monetary policy economic research and financial regulation to promote economic stability and growth at regional Federal Reserve Banks or the Board of GovernorsEntrepreneur or Startup Founder – Leverage economic principles to build businesses especially in sectors like fintech healthtech or analytics-driven platforms
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