Economics and Finance

Economics and Finance

Are you curious about everything that happens around you?

Then economics might satisfy your curiosity.

In economics you study income, capital, and wellbeing. An economics degree incorporates math and statistics with connections to physical sciences such as biology and physics as well as many other disciplines—politics, law, history and psychology.

Our proximity to New York City makes it possible for you to visit leading global and national financial institutions such as the New York Stock Exchange and the Federal Reserve Bank. In addition to preparation for graduate school, an economics degree also offers enormous flexibility in the careers you can pursue after graduation— everything from a market, policy or business analyst to a securities broker, bank officer or actuary.

And at a Jesuit university you will be encouraged to focus on the impact our economic choices make on each other.


Economics at Saint Peter’s University

Economics is the study of how people consider allocating scarce resources to satisfy their needs and wants. It is a broad and versatile field that can be useful for a wide range of careers.

As an Economics major at Saint Peter’s University, you will learn the fundamental principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics, as well as quantitative and analytical skills. 

Economics is all about understanding how the world around us works. It’s not just about money and numbers, it’s about the choices we make as individuals and societies, and the impact those choices have on our lives. 

You will seek to answer questions such as:

  • What factors influence consumer behavior and demand for goods and services?
  • How are prices determined in different markets?
  • What are the causes and consequences of economic growth and development?
  • How do financial markets work, and what role do they play in the economy?

Saint Peter’s University’s dedicated faculty and small class sizes will provide you with the personalized attention and support you need to succeed, both in your studies and beyond. 

By studying economics, you’ll gain valuable skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication, which will open doors to exciting careers in business, finance, government, and more.

Peacocks can take courses such as:

  • Macroeconomic Principles
  • Microeconomic Principles
  • Stats for Business Finance & Economics
  • Poverty & Inequality
  • Urban Economics

Whether you’re looking to understand the world better or prepare for a rewarding career, choosing economics at Saint Peter’s University is the perfect first step.

Peacocks with an economics degree can pursue careers in a variety of fields:

  • Financial Analyst
  • Investment Banker
  • Economist
  • Consultant
  • Policy Analyst
  • Budget Analyst
  • Actuary
  • Non-Profit Work
  • Professor

If you are interested in a career that is both challenging and rewarding, an Economics degree from Saint Peter’s University is a great option. You will have the skills and knowledge to succeed in a variety of fields.


    Finance at Saint Peter’s University

    A Finance degree is a versatile choice that can lead you to a wide range of careers in both the public and private sectors. 

    Finance delves into the intricate intersection of money, markets, and human behavior. You’ll master the art of crunching numbers, but also learn how to analyze trends, predict risks, and craft strategic solutions for businesses and individuals alike. 

    It’s a journey of critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and navigating the ever-evolving financial landscape. 

    You will seek to answer questions like:

    • How do companies raise capital in financial markets?
    • How do you calculate return on investment (ROI)?
    • How does inflation impact the purchasing power of money?
    • What are the different types of financial risk and how can they be managed?

    Whether you’re a numbers whiz or simply curious about the world’s economic engine, Saint Peter’s University Finance program offers a dynamic path to unlock your potential. You will discover that finance is much more than just spreadsheets. 

    The close location of Saint Peter’s University to New York City means that you can visit leading financial institutions to gain first-hand experience in the industry. 

    Saint Peter’s University also emphasizes the unique perspective of thinking about the impact that economic choices have on other people.

    Peacocks studying finance will take courses such as:

    • Microeconomic Principles
    • Intermediate Macroeconomics
    • Principles of Accounting I 
    • Introduction to Law & Contracts
    • Principles of Management

        A Finance degree builds analytical and strategic skills valued across a spectrum of industries. Some of the career paths you can explore include:

        • Financial Analyst
        • Financial Planner
        • Accountant
        • Insurance Agent
        • Loan Officer

        Beyond these positions, a finance background will prepare you for corporate finance roles managing resources and strategy. These transferable skills also apply in risk management, real estate, nonprofit organizations, and other fields needing strategic financial direction.

        No matter what your interests are, there is likely a career in finance that is right for you. A Finance degree from Saint Peter’s University will give you the skills and knowledge to launch a successful career in this industry!


        CFA Institute Research Challenge

        Congratulations to the Frank J. Guarini School of Business CFA Research Challenge Team members: Jocelyn Encalada ’21, Douglas Hall ’21, Anton Moore ’21 and Valeria Moreno ’22 for competing in the CFA Institute Research Challenge regional competition on Friday, February 5. The annual competition promotes ethics and best practices in equity research through mentoring and training and applies what is learned in the classroom to real world situations.

        The Saint Peter’s team was mentored by Samar Issa, Ph.D., assistant professor of economics and finance at Saint Peter’s University, with support from CFA Institute Research Challenge industry coach Robert King, CFA. This year’s team conducted a deep dive financial research project on A10 Networks, a U.S. public company specializing in the manufacturing of application delivery controllers (software and hardware). Over the course of several months, the team analyzed the firm’s financial performance as well as management, competitive and legal issues and they developed formal recommendations on the value of stock in a written report and virtual presentation in front of a panel of industry judges.

        Meet the Members of Our Student Managed Investment Fund (SMIF) Team