April 8, 2008

KALAMAZOO COLLEGE WILL OFFER B.A. DEGREES IN BUSINESS

KALAMAZOO, Mich. -- Kalamazoo College officials announced today that students pursuing business careers will soon be able to do so with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business. College faculty recently voted unanimously to add a business major to the catalog for the 2008-2009 academic year beginning in September.

Previously, only a single major in Economics and Business was available. The College will continue to offer a major in Economics, along with a minor in Economics and a minor in Business. Students may also earn a minor in International Economics and Business.

“The Department of Economics and Business, along with many of our students and alumni, have really looked forward to the addition of a business major and minor,” said Patrik Hultberg, associate professor and chair of the department of economics and business. “It’s an excellent fit with our liberal arts mandate and our commitment to prepare students for careers in a global economy.”

Hultberg added that Kalamazoo averages about 45 economics and business graduates each year.

The College also offers several programs that bridge the liberal arts educational experience and the business world that students will encounter upon graduation.

The Center for Career Development (CCD) helps students with career exploration, preparation and placement, and helps employers tap the Kalamazoo College talent pool. In collaboration with the Department of Economics and Business, CCD hosts “Business Boot Camps” that bring Kalamazoo alumni from the world of business back to campus to sharpen students’ job search skills and instruct them on what to expect when entering the workforce.

The Kalamazoo College Business Guild fosters shared experiences and networking opportunities for students, alumni, and others around business topics. On April 11-12, the Business Guild will host a panel discussion and lecture on entrepreneurship during which returning alumni will advise students on how to turn good ideas into viable businesses.

Kalamazoo College (www.kzoo.edu) is a nationally recognized liberal arts college and the creator of the “Kalamazoo Plan.” By emphasizing scholarship, civic engagement, and study abroad, Kalamazoo cultivates “A Fellowship in Learning: At Home in the World” among students, faculty, and a community of scholars worldwide. In 2008, Kalamazoo College celebrates the 175th anniversary of its founding and the 50th anniversary of its pioneering study abroad program.