Valparaiso University

What you'll study

The programme combines a core sequence of business fundamentals with major-specific courses, general education requirements and experiential learning components. Core topics typically include introductory and intermediate accounting, microeconomics and macroeconomics, business statistics, finance, marketing, management principles, business law and ethics.

Students then choose a concentration or major track—common options include Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Management, Economics, International Business and Supply Chain/Operations. Typical modules you can expect in those tracks are:

• Accounting: Financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, taxation.
• Finance: Corporate finance, investments, financial markets, risk management.
• Marketing: Consumer behaviour, marketing research, digital marketing, brand management.
• Management: Organisational behaviour, strategic management, human resource management, entrepreneurship.
• International Business: Global economics, cross-cultural management, international trade and finance.
• Operations/Supply Chain: Operations management, logistics, supply chain strategy, quality management.

All students complete a capstone experience that integrates functional areas of business—this may take the form of a strategy course, consulting project with an external partner, or an internship. Throughout the degree there is an emphasis on written and oral communication, quantitative reasoning and ethical decision-making.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary-school qualification. Valparaiso looks for a strong academic record in college-preparatory subjects, with particular strength in mathematics and English. Typical supporting materials include a high-school transcript, personal statement or essay, and recommendations.

Standardised tests may be submitted where applicable, but admissions policies can vary; applicants should check the university’s admissions guidance. Competitive applicants often demonstrate extracurricular engagement, leadership experience, and any relevant work or volunteer activity. Transfer applicants must provide college transcripts and typically need to meet minimum credit and GPA thresholds for admission to the College of Business.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of roles across industries. Common entry-level positions include financial analyst, marketing coordinator, staff accountant, operations analyst, sales representative, human resources assistant and management trainee. The degree also provides a solid foundation for entrepreneurship or for further professional and graduate studies such as MBA, law, accounting certification (e.g., CPA) and specialised master’s programmes.

The programme’s practical focus—internships, project-based courses and career services—helps students build networks and transition into roles with regional and national employers in fields such as finance, manufacturing, healthcare, retail, consulting, technology and non-profit management.

Why study at Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University offers a liberal-arts approach to business education that emphasises ethical leadership and whole-person development. Class sizes are typically small, allowing close interaction with faculty who combine academic expertise and professional experience. The College of Business promotes experiential learning through internships, client projects and community partnerships, giving students practical experience before graduation.

Students also benefit from career and internship services, student organisations focused on business and entrepreneurship, and opportunities to study abroad or participate in short-term international business experiences. The university’s regional connections and alumni network support job placement and professional development across the Midwest and beyond.