Make an impact

Our 2023 graduates

  • $60,000

    average business economics starting salary

  • $21.00

    average business economics internship wage

Become a change agent with this major, and get the best of both worlds in business and economics. Business economics provides a high-quality education with a balanced emphasis in both business and economics. Gain a unique mix of analytical and applied business skills suited for employment in upper-level management and public service.

Traditional business programs focus on the organization and functions that deliver goods and services to customers. The focus in economics is production, distribution, and consumption, and how to best utilize available resources. This hybrid major offers a balanced focus in both areas.

As a graduate, you’ll possess a unique mix of analytical and applied business skills well-suited for employment in upper-level management and public service positions. You will also have solid preparation for graduate studies, including a master of business administration (MBA). The Department of Finance offer this major in partnership. Business economics majors benefit from receiving additional faculty and advising support from the Department of Economics.

Explore the Department of Finance at Ivy

Lucas Rincker

I wanted to have a good understanding of the business side and the analytical side of what goes on in the economy and be a more well-rounded businessman in the future.

Lucas Rincker, (21 business economics)

Victor Ndungu

Gain real-world experience

As a business student, you can participate in an internship as early as your first or second summer in college. Internships often provide an opportunity to confirm that your major is perfect for you. You will gain real-world experience where you can apply your classroom learning and skills in the workplace. After an internship, you’ll be better prepared for the global world of business. You will make connections with employers, network, and build relationships that may lead to full-time employment after graduation. Ivy students report high average salaries from their internships. Check it out in our annual business career services report.

Business economics at Ivy

What sets us apart

  • This major is open to all students at Iowa State University.
  • Combines practical business skills with a strong theoretical understanding of economics.
  • A high-quality education with a balanced emphasis in both disciplines.
  • The Ivy College of Business is is highly ranked among AACSB undergraduate accredited programs. See our rankings page for details.

 

 

How we prepare you

As a business student, you can participate in an internship as early as your first or second summer in college. Internships often provide an opportunity to confirm that your major is perfect for you. You will gain real-world experience where you can apply your classroom learning and skills in the workplace. After an internship, you’ll be better prepared for the global world of business. You will make connections with employers, network, and build relationships that may lead to full-time employment after graduation. Ivy students report high average salaries from their internships. Check it out in our annual business career services report.

How we support you

In the Ivy business economics program, you will:

  • Learn side-by-side with internationally known faculty who support you.
  • Meet and learn from leaders in the industry.
  • Work directly with career coordinators who support you in finding internships and full-time employment.
  • Have the opportunity to work with experts in the Ivy Writing and Speaking Center.
  • Have access to a devoted academic advisor in Ivy and the Department of Economics who supports you.
  • Have access to scholarships — learn more about the scholarships we offer to our business students.
Advisor meeting

Academic services

At the Ivy College of Business, we are here to support you from day one. We have academic advisors ready to help you select your classes and choose your major.

Professional career coaching

At Ivy, you can take advantage of professional career coaching. A career coordinator can assist you on how to approach the job market and to develop job-seeking strategies as well as networking opportunities. We are here to help you succeed!

Next-steps

Take the next step

Become a change agent with this major. Business economics provides a unique mix of analytical and applied business skills suited for employment in upper level management and public service.

Connect with us

Undergraduate Student Services

1200 Gerdin Business Building
2167 Union Drive
Ames, Iowa 50011
undergrad@iastate.edu
515-294-8300

 

Questions?

  • Send us an email: undergrad@iastate.edu.
  • Call at 515-294-8300 any time between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday. 
  • Schedule a video chat with a member of our recruitment staff. We can do this on your favorite platform, just let us know which one you prefer: Google Hangouts, Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, or suggest another. Email our recruitment staff: choosebusiness@iastate.edu.