Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business, Economics, and Management (BEM)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

California Institute of Technology

Program Overview

Caltech’s Bachelor of Science in Business, Economics, and Management combines rigorous mathematics and quantitative analysis with economics, finance, computer science, psychology, and behavioral sciences to prepare students for modern business challenges. It is well suited to students interested in finance, entrepreneurship, consulting, strategy, and technology who want to approach business problems through analytical and interdisciplinary methods.

Curriculum Structure

First Year: Students complete Caltech’s rigorous first-year core curriculum, building foundations in mathematics, science, computing, and communication that support the quantitative nature of the BEM option. Students are encouraged to take the foundational economics course Ec 11 – Introduction to Economics early in their studies.

Second Year: Students begin the main BEM curriculum with BEM 102 – Introduction to Accounting and BEM 103 – Introduction to Finance, developing an understanding of financial statements, accounting principles, asset pricing, corporate finance, risk and investment decisions. They also study PS/Ec 172 – Game Theory and continue their mathematics and elective coursework.

Third Year: Students progress into more advanced quantitative finance and economics through courses such as BEM 104 – Investments, BEM 105 – Options, and Ec 122 – Econometrics. These courses develop skills in financial decision-making, portfolio selection, security pricing, risk management, option pricing, statistical analysis, and economic modelling.

Fourth Year: Students deepen their analytical business skills through BEM 106 – Data Science in Economics and Finance, alongside advanced electives and the required writing/oral communication coursework. The program allows students to explore areas such as finance, economics, business strategy, data analysis, and related quantitative fields while completing the broader science, mathematics, and engineering requirements.

Focus Areas

Economic theory and econometrics, finance and investment, risk management, business strategy, entrepreneurship, quantitative analysis, financial and business data analysis, mathematical modelling, data science, game theory, and decision-making.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop a strong background in economic theory and econometrics, understand theoretical and practical aspects of finance, risk management and business strategy, analyze business problems using qualitative and quantitative methods, analyze financial and business data, communicate effectively, and understand the broader impact of business and management on society.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Caltech describes BEM as an undergraduate option/major rather than a professional business-school degree, and the official BEM curriculum page does not identify a specific business accreditation such as AACSB for the program. Its curriculum instead emphasizes analytical preparation for careers in finance, consulting, entrepreneurship, and related fields, as well as graduate study in finance and economics.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Caltech reports that 40.9% of the Class of 2025 accepted a full-time job, while another 40% went on to graduate or professional school. Caltech also reports a median starting salary range of $120,000–$129,000 for its graduates, although these figures are institution-wide rather than specific to the BEM major.

Caltech is ranked #10 in the QS World University Rankings 2026, according to Caltech’s official rankings page; this is an overall university ranking, not a BEM-specific ranking.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the California Institute of Technology, the Bachelor’s in Business Economics and Management program is designed to provide students with a robust blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. This program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage in real-world applications of their studies. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students can immerse themselves in hands-on experiences that prepare them for successful careers in business.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in this program:

- Group Projects: Collaborate with peers on team-based projects that simulate real business challenges, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Internships: Gain valuable work experience through internships with leading companies, providing insights into the business world and enhancing your resume.
- Digital Tools: Utilize advanced software such as R, Python, and Tableau for data analysis and visualization, equipping you with essential skills for today’s data-driven economy.
- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to local businesses and organizations, offering firsthand exposure to various industries and operational practices.
- Research Laboratories: Access dedicated research labs where you can work on projects that explore economic theories and business strategies, guided by faculty experts.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources, including access to academic journals, business databases, and case studies that support your learning.
- Institutes and Centers: Engage with specialized institutes, such as the Caltech Center for Technology and Management Education, which provides additional resources and networking opportunities.

These experiential learning components are integral to the Business Economics and Management program, ensuring that you not only learn the concepts but also apply them in meaningful ways.

Embarking on this journey at Caltech will not only enhance your academic experience but also equip you with the skills and connections necessary to thrive in the business world.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a Bachelor’s in Business Economics and Management at the California Institute of Technology opens up a world of opportunities for graduates. With a strong foundation in economic theory and management practices, students are well-prepared for diverse career paths. Typical job roles include Economic Analyst, Management Consultant, and Financial Manager.

Here’s how Caltech supports your journey toward a successful career:

- Career Services: The university offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you stand out in the job market.
- Employment Statistics: Graduates from this program enjoy a high employment rate, with many securing positions within six months of graduation. Average starting salaries for graduates can range from $70,000 to $90,000, depending on the role and industry.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Caltech has established strong connections with leading companies in technology, finance, and consulting, providing students with internship opportunities and networking events that can lead to job placements.
- Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by recognized bodies, ensuring that your degree holds value in the job market and meets high educational standards.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to work at prestigious firms such as Google, Goldman Sachs, and McKinsey & Company, showcasing the program's effectiveness in preparing students for high-impact roles.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Bachelor’s in Business Economics and Management, you can choose to further your studies by pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) or a Master’s in Economics. These advanced degrees can enhance your expertise and open doors to leadership positions in various sectors. Additionally, Caltech offers opportunities for research and collaboration with faculty, allowing you to deepen your knowledge and skills in your area of interest.