Department of Accounting, Economics and Finance

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Prepare for a Successful Career Across All Sectors of the Economy

Develop analytical and critical-thinking skills while learning to apply economic models, financial tools, and accounting insights to evaluate complex business decisions and create sustainable value for stakeholders.

Accounting, Economics and Finance Programs

The Department of Accounting, Economics and Finance prepares graduates to meet the challenges of the real world. Small class sizes provide an excellent opportunity for you to forge a close relationship with dedicated faculty members who support your success.

BBA in Accounting

Accountants serve as trusted advisors to leaders in every industry, including the government and non-profit sectors. Career possibilities are varied and include such opportunities as external auditor, internal auditor, tax advisor, contracting specialist, budget analyst, payroll accountant and forensic accountant.

BBA in Finance

Learn everything from corporate finance and investments to global markets. Analyze financial decisions through a social justice lens and explore their wider impact. Study with professors who have years of industry experience and connections and will walk you through case studies taken straight from the financial news.


 

BBA in Accounting Information Technology

With an Accounting Information Technology degree, you’ll be prepared to enter a rapidly growing profession. The 150-hour program awards both a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Technology. You’ll graduate ready to start a position like financial analyst, IT consultant, systems analyst or fraud examiner specializing in cybercrime.

BBA in Applied Economics

Study markets, banking, business law and current economic issues like the environment and healthcare. With sharp analytical thinking and quantitative skills, you’ll have the background to become a financial analyst with the World Bank, a public policy specialist for a congressional representative or a consultant for a multinational company.

A young man wearing a navy suit, a white collared shirt and a red tie.
"Studying at The Bill Munday School of Business has given me both the technical skills and the personal confidence to succeed outside the classroom. St. Edward’s University has challenged me to step out of my comfort zone as a leader and to build meaningful relationships that have shaped my entire college experience."
David Callier, Finance '25 Commercial Banking Associate at Comerica Bank

Program Benefits

Conduct Research with Faculty

Students collaborate with Accounting faculty on research projects, co-presenting at conferences such as the national and southwest regional American Accounting Association meetings and co-authoring publications in leading academic journals, including Issues in Accounting Education, Auditing, Journal of Business Ethics, The Journal of the American Tax Association and Case Research Journal.

Scholarship Opportunities

Students in accounting, economics and finance have access to a wide range of scholarships. For accounting-specific awards, students should contact Dr. Camelia Rotaru. All students are encouraged to work closely with faculty to ensure their applications are strong and meet all requirements.

Student Managed Investment Fund (SMIF) Program

The Student-Managed Investment Fund (SMIF) course offers finance majors a unique, hands-on experience in managing a real investment portfolio. Students will take on the roles of fund managers and analysts making investment recommendations intended to achieve long-term growth. Throughout the semester, students will work collaboratively in teams, present their investment recommendations to an advisory board, and provide regular performance reports.

Quantitative Finance Opportunities with the CQF Institute

Our collaboration with the CQF Institute empowers students to strengthen their academic foundation and professional profile by providing access to an international professional network in quantitative finance, economics and data science. Students also gain opportunities for global professional engagement, exposure to industry insights through webinars, research and international events.

Signature Events

Each year, Career & Professional Development, the Accounting Club and The Bill Munday School of Business host Meet the Firms, an opportunity for all business students to connect with accounting professionals and learn about internship and full-time career opportunities. 

Our next Meet the Firms event is scheduled for Friday, September 18, 2026. Additional details will be announced soon.

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Faculty Research

At The Bill Munday School of Business, our research is inspired by the spirit of Austin — a city defined by innovation, diversity and global thinking. Our faculty are passionate scholars and thought leaders, here are a few recent examples of their socially impactful research. 

Are the Effects of Stock Market Volatility on Consumption State Dependent?

Studies in Nonlinear Dynamics & Econometrics

Dr. Haydory Akbar Ahmed, et al.
 

Meet Our Faculty

Asst Professor of Economics
Phone:
Office: Premont Hall 224
Email Haydory Ahmed
Assc Professor of Accounting
Phone:
Office: Trustee Hall 312
Email Matthew Behrend
Adjunct Faculty
Phone:
Office: Andre Hall 318
Email Michelle Elley
Professor of Accounting
Phone:
Office: Premont Hall 309
Email Katherine Lopez
Asst Professor of Accounting
Phone:
Office: Premont Hall 229
Email Joseph Nketia
Professor of Finance
Chair, Accounting, Economics, and Finance Department
Phone:
Office: Premont Hall 319
Email Camelia Rotaru
Assc Professor of Finance
Phone:
Office: Premont Hall 323
Email Sung Suh
Adjunct Faculty
Phone:
Office: Andre Hall 322
Email Fred Tedesco
Professor of Finance
Phone:
Office: Trustee Hall 327
Email Jane Xie
Asst Professor of Economics
Phone:
Office: Trustee Hall 309
Email Chen Xu