Combines core economic theory with business applications. Designed for students aiming for roles in firms, consulting, or policy with strong analytic and practical business tools.
Curriculum Structure
Years 1–2 – Core Foundations
Calculus and business statistics
Introductory micro/macro and basic econometrics
Foundation courses from business disciplines
Years 3–4 – Application & Integration
Managerial economics and industrial organization
Electives in finance, marketing, or strategy
Capstone or internship in business economics
Focus Areas
Business strategy and market analysis
Quantitative decision-making
Economic insights into corporate operations
Learning Outcomes
Apply economic reasoning in business environments
Conduct market and financial analysis
Prepare for consulting, corporate, or policy analyst roles
Accreditation & Reputation
Jointly offered by ISU’s Department of Economics and Ivy College of Business, AACSB accredited and highly respected in Business Economics
Experiential learning includes:
Case-based projects focused on pricing strategy, firm behavior, and market performance.
Use of software like Excel, Stata, and Tableau in business analytics courses.
Internships facilitated by LAS Career Services, including positions in regional and national firms.
Cross-collaboration with the Ivy College of Business for business electives and real-world consulting simulations.
Group capstone experiences with applied economic consulting models.
The Business Economics track in Iowa State’s BS in Economics program blends core economic theory with practical business applications—ideal for careers in consulting, corporate strategy, market analysis, or business development. Graduates frequently step into roles such as business analysts, financial consultants, or economic strategists. Here’s how Iowa State prepares you:
Access to two dedicated support centers—LAS Career Services and the Ivy College of Business Career Center—for internship connections, mock interviews, and employer networking.
Roughly 93% of economics graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months; average starting salaries range from $55,000–$68,000.
Iowa State maintains strong ties with firms such as John Deere, Principal Financial, and IBM for internships and job placements.
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the Ivy College of Business is also AACSB-accredited, reinforcing long-term value and global recognition.
Coursework includes managerial economics, business analytics, and strategy alongside economic modeling, giving students both theoretical and applied business skills.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates often pursue MBAs, Master’s in Applied Economics, or specialized programs in marketing analytics or finance.
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.