Division of Business and Economics

Our mission is to prepare knowledgeable, well-rounded individuals for productive lives and careers in the business professions and the public sector.  Graduates are individuals who conduct themselves with intelligence and integrity in domestic and global environments.

Class Schedules

Summer | Fall | Winter | Spring

Office Hours

Our office is located in West House 113.  Regular office hours are Monday-Friday, 8a.m.-12p.m. and 1p.m.-5p.m. 

Contact Us

email icon  business@wou.edu     phone icon  503-838-8421     people iconFaculty/Staff

Accounting Major

Are you interested in a career in public, governmental, and/or financial accounting?

The Accounting major prepares students for careers in a variety of settings in accounting, both as licensed and non-licensed professionals. 

Program Learning Outcomes

Inquiry and Analysis

  • Demonstrate an understanding of intermediate-level financial accounting and reporting concepts.

Inquiry and Analysis, Quantitative Literacy

  • Demonstrate an understanding of intermediate-level cost/managerial accounting concepts.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of individual and entity taxation.

 Inquiry and Analysis, Integrative Learning, Quantitative Literacy

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of auditing.

    Diversity, Inquiry and Analysis, Integrative Learning, Quantitative Literacy

    • Exhibit an understanding of ethical conduct in a global and diverse professional environment.

    Business Major

    Are you interested in working to reach an organization’s goals, whether financial, operational, or workforce-related? 

    The Business major combines a foundational core of coursework with optional specializations, to prepare students for careers in a variety of settings.

    Available Concentrations

    • Finance
    • International Business
    • Management
    • Marketing

    More information regarding Business Concentrations.

    Program Learning Outcomes

    Quantitative Literacy

    • Demonstrate quantitative literacy in a variety of business contexts.

    Inquiry and Analysis

    • Interpret and analyze information to solve problems or make decisions.

    Written Communication

    • Use appropriate writing methods to communicate concepts in business environments.

     

    Economics Major

    Are you interested in the study of how people allocate scarce resources, both individually and collectively? 

    The Economics major teaches students to research economic issues, analyze and interpret data, and recommend solutions to solve problems.

    Program Learning Outcomes

    Inquiry and Analysis/Critical Thinking

    • Apply relevant theoretical models to explore microeconomic and macroeconomic issues.

    Quantitative Literacy

    • Demonstrate quantitative literacy in the context of economic behavior.

    Written Communication

    • Use appropriate writing methods to effectively communicate economic concepts.

     

    May Student Recognition Night

    Congratulations to our students who were honored at the annual Student Recognition Night!

    Where this degree can take you

    Degrees in Business and Economics are extremely versatile, and can prepare you to go directly into positions in state government offices, small and large businesses, and the non-profit sector.  In addition, many graduates are well-prepared to pursue advanced professional certifications and graduate degrees.

     

    Possible job titles

    • Financial Planner
    • Mortgage Loan Originator
    • Forensic Accountant
    • Director of Operations
    • Human Resources Manager
    • Marketing Coordinator
    • Economic Development Coordinator
    • Sales Manager

    Possible employers

    • Banks
    • Accounting firms
    • Non-Profit foundations
    • City or State government
    • Health systems
    • Professional sports organizations
    • Search firms

    Experiences to Take With You

     

    Internships

    Gain Real-World Experience

    Both business and economics major programs have room for students to plan and complete internships in the area of their choosing, earning degree credits while gaining valuable work experiences.

    Club Activities

    Get Connected

    Business Economics logo

    The Business and Economics Club is open to all students, and provides opportunities to plan events, make friends, and develop interests and networks with area businesses.

    In Depth Learning

    Pursue an Interest

    Take advantage of the chance to work on research and special studies projects alongside professors who serve as mentors. 

    Careers

    Get Into Your Field

    Dr. Keven Malkewitz, Professor of Marketing, gives advice on how to get a job or internship