A Flexible Degree for a Variety of Careers in Economics and Finance
As an economics and finance major at Point Park University, you will learn research skills as well as quantitative and qualitative methodologies to become career-ready for many types of roles working with businesses, organizations and individuals, from portfolio manager and financial strategist to investor and financial analyst. You'll also become an expert at using and analyzing case studies, as well as using scenario-building techniques for decision-making purposes.
Additionally, you'll master ideas about technological innovations, growth models and social issues and develop a greater understanding of the realities of the global marketplace and the economic and financial events of our times.
Point Park's distinctive location in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh immerses you in the city's business district, providing access to a variety of internships and co-ops. Our industry-experienced faculty leverage their professional networks to connect students with valuable experiential learning opportunities, and our small class sizes allow for individualized instruction. Point Park's emphasis on hands-on classroom learning paired with real-world experience will prepare you for a successful career in economics and finance.
You will receive a well-rounded education through Point Park's core curriculum and classes in the economics and finance major. Some of the courses include:
Economic History of the United States
Principles of Macroeconomics
Modern Economic Thought
Economics of Social Issues
International Finance
Risk Management
Fast-Track Bachelor’s to Master’s Program
Point Park's economics and finance program allows students to earn six credits toward our MBA degree program. Additionally, you may enroll in the Rowland School of Business Fast-Track Bachelor’s to Master’s Program to obtain six more credits toward your MBA or another master's program in the Rowland School of Business. Learn more about our Fast-Track Bachelor’s to Master’s Program.
Meet Our Faculty
Luis Palacios-Salguero, Ph.D., associate professor of economics and finance
Before joining Point Park, Dr. Palacios-Salguero worked as a consultant at the Inter-American Development Bank in Washington, D.C. He also worked for several years at the Superintendency of Banking and the Ministry of Finance of Peru.
Dimitris Kraniou, Ph.D., professor of international economics and global management
"I have the privilege to teach a subject matter that I love and care about. The opportunity to interact with peers and friends, reflect on issues and ideas and cultivate them further to benefit students is tremendous."
Joseph DeFazio, CRPC, Ph.D., senior lecturer of finance
"Working as a financial planner, I have learned that finance is a critical topic for individuals of all ages to learn. Being provided the opportunity to help clients learn about and organize their own financial lives has been an extremely rewarding experience."
With an economics and finance degree, you will have the option to pursue various career opportunities, such as:
Economist
Financial Analyst
Financial Planner
Loan Officer
Market Analyst
Risk Manager
Budget Analyst
Urban Planner
Foreign Trade Analyst
Economic Market Research Consultant
Claims Analyst
Healthcare Analyst
Investment Banker
Economics and Finance News & Features
Students in Advanced Accounting Course Get an Inside Look at Investment Management with Field Trip to Federated Hermes
"My main takeaway from the trip to Federated Hermes was experiencing what it's like to be in a real-world, workplace environment with accounting professionals and taking in everything they had to say about their work, career paths and how they got to where they are."
Economics and Finance Senior Tanner Hoffer Receives FEI Scholarship, Reflects on Merrill Lynch Experience and New Role at PPG
"Point Park has prepared me in every way possible. I looked up to professors who showed me the best interview tactics and networking tools. Every class I've taken provided me with opportunities to learn more and more about my future, and I've loved it."
Get Career-Ready with: Shivansh Waleacha '23, Economics and Finance Major and Business Management Minor
"Point Park is one of the most welcoming environments I've ever experienced. You can be from anywhere, from any background, and feel like you are a part of something bigger than yourself at this school."