The pre-business program is designed as the entry point for freshman and some transfer students who wish to earn a bachelor of science degree in economics, finance, management, or marketing. Students who want earn a Bachelor of Science in accounting may be accepted directly into that major.

Incoming freshman who meet the SAT. GPA, and high school rank requirements are admitted to the pre-business program. After successful completion of the required courses, pre-business students may apply for admission to one of four different degree programs: Economics, finance, management, or marketing. To be accepted into one of these majors, students must:

1. Complete 45 credits with at least a 2.5 GPA;
2. Complete Principles of Macroeconomics, Principles of Microeconomics, Financing Accounting, College Algebra, Quantitative Business Analysis I, and Principles of Management with a C or better, Principles of Marketing and
3. Pass Brief Calculus

Transfer students who meet the above requirements may be admitted to the major of their choice. Those who do not meet the above requirements, but meet the general admission requirements for the university, may be admitted to the pre-business program.

After acceptance into one of the business majors, students must maintain a 2.5 GPA to continue in the major. By maintaining these requirements, the program graduates students who continue to enhance the reputation of West Chester University's business programs.

The pre business program gives you time to make an informed choice. After completing seven required courses, you will be ready to select the major that is right for you. As a pre-business major, advisors in departments of Economics and Finance, management, and Marketing will help guide your decision. If you have any questions about the five business majors, you may contact the chairperson of that department to discuss which major is best for you.

Many students choose to dual (double) major in two business disciplines. For instance, you can major in accounting and finance; management and accounting; or marketing and finance. A dual major can improve your job prospects after graduation. Students who major in two business disciplines and plan carefully can still graduate in four years.

If you decide to dual major in a business discipline and another major outside the business program, it may take you more than four years. Students interested in going to law school might major in economics and political science. Students interested in a career in the FBI might major in accounting and criminal justice. If you are considering a second major outside the business programs, you should talk with advisors in both departments early in your program.

Within the business programs, students can minor in accounting, economics, finance, or international business. Common minors outside the business program include business geographics and information systems, communication studies, computer science, and studio art (graphic design). These minors can usually be completed within a four-year program.

Internships are not required, but are highly recommended. Studies have shown that students who complete internships acquire good job experience and obtain better jobs upon graduation. Students can receive three or six credits for an internship. During the last few years, students have served as interns with companies such as Morgan Stanley Dean Witter; QVC, Inc.; Intermedia Marketing; First National Bank; First Union; American Express; Vanguard; and SEI.

Of course. It is certainly possible for full-time business students who study hard and do not switch majors after their sophomore year to graduate in four years.

The University, The dean of the College of Business and Public Affair, and the departments have scholarships for outstanding students. Five merit scholarships (the Harding Scholarships) are available for incoming freshman admitted into the College of Business and Public Affairs. Students interested in the Harding Scholarship should contact the Office of Admissions for more information. For information about other scholarships, students can check the University Web site or the Dean's Office for a list of University scholarships and eligibility requirements.

We encourage students to participate in clubs and activities throughout the University. Participation can develop leadership skills, interpersonal skills, and lifelong friendships. The departmental clubs include the Accounting Society, Economic and finance Society, and Management Society. An increasing number of potential employers are seeking graduates with experience in voluntary service activities. If you are interested in voluntary service activities, the Office of Service Learning and Volunteer Programs can provide volunteer activities related to your major.