Business Economics

When you study business economics at the University of Dayton, you will develop a strong foundation through core business courses such as accounting, business ethics, decision sciences, finance, management, management information systems, marketing, and operations management. Additional coursework provides an integrated, multifaceted approach to the career world.

Pathways to Explore Economics

• Business Economics (B.S.B.A.): Bridges core economic concepts with practical business applications, preparing you for careers at the intersection of economics and commerce. This program is offered by the AACSB accredited School of Business Administration.
• Economics (B.A.): Integrates economic principles with a broad liberal arts foundation, fostering a comprehensive understanding of societal and humanistic contexts. This degree is offered by the College of Arts and Sciences.
• Applied Mathematical Economics (B.S.): Provides a more intensive focus on mathematical modeling and quantitative analysis within economic theory. This degree is offered by the College of Arts and Sciences.

Sample Plan of Study

This is a sample plan of study for students starting at UD in the 2025-26 academic year. This is a recommended course sequence, but your schedule may vary depending on previously earned college credits, course availability, advisor recommendations, and your personal goals and interests. Please contact your holistic advisor if you have any questions.

Curriculum

• AACSB Accredited (B.S.B.A. program only): Our accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB-International) represents the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide.
• Top 30 Business School: 2025 Poets&Quants ranked UD's School of Business Administration among the Top 30 in the nation for academic experience — and Top 50 overall.
• Flexibility: At 120 credits for graduation, students can pursue their business major and explore interdisciplinary classes, certificates or minors that speaks to their passion or complements their business degree.

Faculty and Staff Support

• 100% of Business Classes Taught by Faculty: All business courses are taught by faculty—never by graduate assistants or teaching assistants.
• Micro-Mentors: Connect with business micro-mentors for personalized guidance on careers, grad school, electives, and aligning your studies with your goals.
• Holistic Academic Advising: Build a lasting connection with your dedicated holistic academic advisor who supports you through your entire UD journey.

Career Development

• On the Road to Success: When graduation arrives, you'll find you're not entering the real world for the first time — you'll already be a part of it. With your strong academic foundation and practical education, you'll be fully prepared for your career and future life. Business economics offers exceptional preparation for many careers, and our graduates are in high demand.
• Required Career Flight Plan Curriculum: All business students complete four courses (50+ hours) of professional development through the Career Flight Plan — covering everything from CliftonStrengths and AI specializations to business etiquette, mock interviews, negotiation and more.

Experiential Learning

• Capstone Project: Gain real-world experience and explore your passions during your semester-long Economics Research Capstone. You'll take a deep dive into compelling datasets on topics you care about, like public policies, social and health issues, business outcomes, politics, sports and more, while developing crucial analytical skills. This is your opportunity to lead your own in-depth economic research.
• Invest in Out-of-Classroom Opportunities: Apply your knowledge to real-world challenges and achieve tangible success, from winning the ECON Games to managing more than $75.5 million in assets at the Davis Center for Portfolio Management. These unparalleled opportunities demonstrate the immediate and powerful value of a UD education.
• Real-World Results Start Here: 100% of UD students complete a high-impact experiential learning opportunity—part of our university-wide commitment to hands-on, real-world education
• BWISE (Business Wisdom through International, Service and Experiential Education) Requirement: Gets students out of the classroom and into companies, communities, and the world to lead, learn and gain real experience.
• Economics in the EU: Gain global insights in the economics field with our integrated study abroad opportunity that will take first-year students all the way to Amsterdam.
• Bridging together Economics and Sustainability: Join the Hanley Center for ESG Investing to explore the intersection of economics and sustainability — and help shape a more responsible future. Be part of the movement driving ethical, impactful investing.

Ready to take the next step? Explore admission options or schedule an academic visit to learn more about business economics at UD.

Additional Business and Economics Programs

• Finance (B.S.B.A.)
• Business Economics (Minor)
• Finance (Minor)
• Finance (MFin)

Related Programs

• Applied Mathematical Economics (B.S.)
• Business Analytics (B.S.B.A.)
• Economics (B.A.)
• Discover Business
• Business Analytics (MBAN)
• Business Administration (MBA)

Rooted in our Catholic, Marianist traditions, the University of Dayton is dedicated to being transparent and ensuring student success. And with high graduation and success rates, UD is an excellent value.

To help you cover your costs, a variety of scholarships, grants, loans and part-time work study are available. The University also accepts transfer credits and credit by exam for undergraduates, giving you more flexibility to add a double major or minor or participate in a transformational experience like study abroad or co-op.