The FGB department offers the Bachelor of Science degree with majors in Finance, Financial Planning, General Business, Insurance and Risk Management, and the MBA with a concentration in Finance. Minors are available in Finance, Financial Planning, General Business, Insurance, Real Estate, Legal Studies, and Actuarial Science. Additionally, students who wish to pursue a career as an actuary typically major in mathematics and minor in insurance.
Finance Program
The finance program is designed to provide a broad preparation for students looking forward to careers in managing the investments, financial affairs and real estate of individuals, private companies, or public and government agencies or offices. A broad selection of courses is available in financial management, investments, banking, and real estate. Students have the opportunity to specialize and take additional courses in the area that reflects their career choice. A few examples of positions available in finance include cash manager, credit analyst, loan officer, financial analyst, financial manager, treasurer, stock broker, investment analyst, portfolio manager, personal financial planner, real estate broker, and real estate developer.
General Business Program
The concept of general business describes a wide range of career opportunities available in the business world. Some employers may prefer to hire students with a broad preparation and then provide specific training within the company. In the general business program you will receive a broad education in all aspects of business operations to prepare you for a variety of entry-level management positions in both the private and public sectors of our economy.
Risk Management and Insurance Program
The only one of its kind in the state of Missouri, this program is designed to provide a specialization to those interested in the insurance industry or the risk management field. The student also obtains a broad-based finance education in the process. If desired, the student may further specialize in the property and liability or life and health fields. There are a limited number of insurance internship opportunities available. Upon graduation, entry level positions include actuary, adjuster, agent/ broker, claims examiner, employee benefit specialist, risk management associate, and underwriter. While great opportunities exist in sales, more than one-half of all jobs are in non-sales positions.
Legal Studies Minor
The Legal Studies Minor helps prepare students for (1) law school or other graduate study, (2) careers in government or regulatory compliance and (3) managerial positions for which an understanding of the regulatory environment in which businesses function is beneficial. Problem-solving techniques that foster analytical thinking are included in many law courses, and are quite useful in helping students to develop nonquantitative decision-making abilities. Employees can better understand their rights and the legal consequences that their actions have for the employer. A business person who has some knowledge of legal institutions, fiduciary responsibilities and the legal implications of commercial relationships can more effectively make informed and ethical business decisions. All students in the Legal Studies Minor take three legal environment business law courses (6 hours), a legal research and writing course (3 hours), and 12 hours of law electives, tailored to individual student interests.
Check Missouri State Undergraduate Catalog for specific degree requirements and course descriptions.