Mission Statement
The mission of the Department of Finance and Economics is to prepare students with the knowledge and skills necessary for personal and career success in a global environment. The department provides a curriculum which is student-centered and relevant to meeting the changing needs of the workforce, and which reflects new developments in the student's chosen profession. Our programs in finance and economics prepare graduates for challenging and productive careers, focus on developing their leadership capabilities, and help to build interpersonal skills necessary for their personal and professional growth.
The department encourages and fosters teaching excellence, relevant scholarship, and service to the university and community. Department faculty members conduct research related to contemporary business, economics, and public policy issues and to the development of the curriculum. Findings are disseminated through presentations and publications. Service to the community, university, and professional organizations is provided through active participation in conferences, committees, and scholarly presentations.
Departmental Information
The Department of Finance and Economics offers a broad array of interesting and challenging career opportunities that build analytical and decision-making skills that are sought after in a fast-paced and competitive labor market. Faculty members are well-educated in their subject matter and can provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in careers related to finance and economics.
Students may pursue internships to gain practical experience within the business, banking, and public policy environments. Internships give students first-hand exposure to industry experts and range from local to national site placements. Students also may take part in Eberly College of Business leadership ventures, Business Day activities, and study abroad opportunities.
The Student Finance Association and the Economics Club sponsor guest speakers and workshops to enhance students’ résumé writing, job interviewing skills, and networking connections. These student organizations may sponsor educational trips and social outings.
The Student Managed Investment Portfolio (SMIP) directly involves students managing assets provided by the Foundation for IUP upwards of $1 million in US equities. With collaboration and fiduciary oversight by the Foundation for IUP, Eberly College of Business delivers this opportunity to improve students' skill sets applicable to financial services or a multitude of business fields. Student members are not registered investment advisors and do not receive compensation for their work; however, they gain working knowledge that industry professionals seek from incoming job candidates.
Education Level Needed:
Our bachelor's degree programs give students the education they need to deal with financial problem-solving within the aspects of the business, banking, and public policy environments. Advanced degrees, such as an MBA, are recommended for promotion to higher levels in many professions. However, advanced degrees are not necessary to gain entry-level positions.
Career Possibilities
Our finance and economics majors could pursue any number of careers dealing with the financial aspects of business, banking, and public policy. A degree in finance may lead the student to pursue higher degrees in law, taxation, or business administration. A degree in economics may lead a student to pursue higher degrees in applied economics, law, and public policy. Other alternative careers include:
- Actuarial science
- Banking
- Budget analysis
- Data analysis
- Economist
- Financial analysis
- Financial manager
- Financial planning
- Hedge funds
- Insurance
- Law
- Market research analysis
- Public policy
- Real estate
- Statistics
- Wealth management