It's an exciting time in the world of economics and finance. Thanks to the information revolution, average citizens have more knowledge about financial affairs than ever before. But knowledge is not understanding. When people need in-depth, professional insight to fathom what's going on, they turn to expert analysts.

Southern's department of economics and finance prepares these experts, training students for entry-level positions as management trainees, brokers, and market analysts, and preparing them for the rigors of advanced professional school.

Many graduates work in corporate banking and investment banking firms locally or on Wall Street, and some work in nonprofit and government agencies collecting and interpreting data in ways that influence important public policy.

But students need not wait until graduation to do exciting, valuable work. For example, one recent graduate interning at the state legislature in Hartford became interested in a specific kind of insurance and persuaded a state representative to sponsor a bill regulating the industry.

Economics and finance majors prepare for their careers with exciting courses that encourage a thorough understanding of financial terms, the ability to communicate effectively, and the critical and analytical abilities needed to make sound decisions. They also learn how to operate in a global environment and how to interpret data and organize information.

The B.S. in economics is a business degree with a solid liberal arts foundation requiring a broad study of other business disciplines. Students informally specialize in international economics, monetary economics, or government policy.