COURSE CURRICULUM

The Business Administration undergraduate major at Oregon State University provides a comprehensive, four-year curriculum that combines core business knowledge, professional development, and general education. In the first year, students are introduced to foundational business concepts through the Innovation Nation series (BA 160, 161, 162), while also completing courses in communication, mathematics, economics, and writing. These courses help students explore careers, build public speaking and analytical skills, and understand economic systems.The second year focuses on key areas such as business law (BA 226), accounting (BA 211 and 213), marketing, finance, statistical inference, and team performance. Students also begin refining soft skills with courses like BA 283 and BA 282, which focus on workplace communication and career planning. Entrepreneurial thinking is introduced through options like BA 260 or BA 267. Personal finance and general education requirements in cultural awareness and science round out the year.In the third year, the curriculum expands to include operations and supply chain management, international business, business ethics, and business information systems. Writing and critical thinking skills are further developed through advanced writing courses. Students also complete general education requirements and electives, with an emphasis on applying quantitative methods and exploring global and societal issues.The final year emphasizes strategic thinking, financial planning, and professional transition. Courses such as BA 466 (Integrative Strategic Experience) and the BA 411–413 sequence support career readiness and practical application of business knowledge. Students also have the opportunity to engage in experiential learning and electives tailored to their interests and career goals. The program totals 180 credits and is designed to build both technical and leadership skills, preparing graduates for a range of careers in business, entrepreneurship, and related fields. Throughout the curriculum, there is a consistent emphasis on ethics, communication, and real-world application.