Business Economics and Law

The Bachelor of Arts in Business Economics and Law at the University of Alberta offers students a comprehensive education that combines foundational knowledge in economics with an understanding of legal systems and principles relevant to the business environment. This interdisciplinary program is designed to equip students with critical thinking, analytical skills, and practical knowledge necessary for a successful career in businesses, law firms, government agencies, or further academic pursuits. Throughout the program, students explore core economic theories, including microeconomics, macroeconomics, and empirical methods, alongside legal studies covering contract law, corporate law, commercial law, and regulatory frameworks. The curriculum emphasizes the development of problem-solving skills, ethical reasoning, and effective communication, preparing graduates to navigate complex legal and economic issues encountered in diverse professional settings. Students can also engage in specialized courses such as international trade, economic policy, business law, and negotiations, fostering a well-rounded understanding of both disciplines. Additionally, the program encourages experiential learning through case studies, internships, and collaborative projects, offering real-world insights and practical experience. The university's diverse academic community and strong links with industry partners create valuable networking opportunities and access to resources that enhance learning and employment prospects. Graduates of the Business Economics and Law program are well-positioned to pursue various career paths, including roles in consulting, financial services, legal consulting, public policy, and corporate management, or to continue their education through graduate studies. Committed to academic excellence and student success, the program combines rigorous coursework with supportive mentorship and extracurricular activities that nurture leadership and professional development. Whether students are interested in understanding how economic principles influence legal practices or how laws shape economic policies, this program provides a solid foundation for a dynamic and rewarding career in the interconnected worlds of business and law.

The Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Business Economics and Law at the University of Alberta offers students a comprehensive education that integrates the principles of economics, legal studies, and their applications in the business world. This interdisciplinary program is designed to prepare students for diverse careers in business, law, government, and non-profit sectors by providing a strong foundation in economic analysis, legal reasoning, and business practices.

Throughout the program, students explore core courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and quantitative methods to develop analytical skills essential for understanding market dynamics and economic policy. They also examine legal principles relevant to the business environment, including contracts, property law, corporate law, and law relating to employment and commercial transactions. The curriculum emphasizes the development of critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and effective communication skills necessary for navigating complex legal and economic issues.

Students in this program have the opportunity to engage in specialized electives that align with their interests, such as international trade, financial law, business strategy, and regulatory frameworks. The curriculum also incorporates practical learning experiences, including case studies, internships, and collaborative projects, to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world application.

The program fosters an understanding of how economic theories and legal structures influence business decision-making and policy. It also equips students with the skills to analyze legal and economic data, interpret legislation, and make informed decisions in a professional setting. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for graduate studies in law, business, or public policy, as well as for careers in consulting, finance, legal services, government agencies, and corporate management.

The University of Alberta's Business Economics and Law program emphasizes a balanced combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students to meet the challenges of a dynamic and interconnected global economy. With access to experienced faculty, research resources, and industry connections, students are encouraged to develop both academically and professionally, setting a strong foundation for their future careers.

Program Requirements: The Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) with a specialization in Business Economics and Law at the University of Alberta requires students to complete a total of 120 undergraduate credits. The program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in business principles, economic analysis, legal systems, and their interrelations within the context of business environments. Students must fulfill core courses in economics, accounting, finance, management, and marketing, alongside specialized courses in business law and economics. The curriculum includes both theoretical and practical components, encouraging analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students are expected to complete a set of foundational courses such as Introduction to Microeconomics and Macroeconomics, Principles of Accounting, and Business Law. Advanced courses cover Law and Economics, Corporate Law, Economic Theory, and Applied Business Economics. Additionally, the program emphasizes experiential learning through case studies, projects, and possible internships. To graduate, students must also demonstrate proficiency in communication skills, often through written reports and presentations. Elective courses are available to tailor the degree to specific interests, such as International Business Law or Environmental Economics. The program duration is typically four years, requiring students to maintain a certain GPA and meet specific prerequisites before progressing to upper-year courses. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities, workshops, and seminars to deepen their understanding of legal and economic matters affecting business. Proficiency in a second language is also encouraged to enhance international business capabilities. Overall, the program equips graduates with critical thinking, legal literacy, and economic analysis skills necessary for careers in business consulting, law firms, financial institutions, or governmental agencies.

The University of Alberta offers a range of financing options to support students enrolled in the Business Economics and Law program. Tuition fees for undergraduate programs vary depending on the number of courses taken per year and the student's residency status. For Canadian residents, the approximate annual tuition is around CAD 5,000 to CAD 7,500, while international students can expect tuition fees ranging from CAD 20,000 to CAD 30,000 per year. In addition to tuition, students should budget for student fees, textbooks, supplies, and living expenses. The university provides numerous financial aid opportunities, including entrance scholarships, merit-based awards, and need-based bursaries. The Killam Undergraduate Scholarships, for example, are highly competitive awards that support outstanding students across various disciplines. Students are encouraged to apply early for scholarships during the admission process, as eligibility criteria and application deadlines vary.

The university also offers work-study programs that allow students to gain practical experience and earn money while studying. These positions are typically on-campus and can range from research assistantships to administrative roles. Loans are available through government-sponsored programs such as the Canada Student Loans Program, which provides financial assistance based on demonstrated need. Additionally, students can explore external scholarship opportunities from private organizations, companies, and community foundations.

International students may have access to special scholarships designed to promote diversity and academic excellence, and they are advised to check the university’s international student support services for updated funding options. For students planning to finance their studies through part-time employment, Alberta's labor laws regulate maximum work hours and conditions to ensure students can focus on their academic commitments. The university also provides financial planning resources and counseling services to help students manage their budgets effectively throughout their studies. Overall, the University of Alberta strives to make higher education accessible through a comprehensive array of financial assistance programs, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their degrees in Business Economics and Law with financial support tailored to their needs.

The Business Economics and Law program at the University of Alberta provides students with a comprehensive education that combines essential aspects of economics, business principles, and legal studies. This interdisciplinary program is designed for students interested in understanding the economic underpinnings of business operations, legal frameworks, and how these areas intersect within the modern economic landscape. The program offers a rigorous curriculum that covers core topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, business law, contract law, economic policy, and legal regulation affecting businesses and organizations. Students develop analytical skills necessary to evaluate economic data and legal scenarios, preparing them for careers in business consulting, legal advising, economic policy analysis, or further graduate studies.

The program emphasizes practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge, encouraging students to participate in case studies, simulations, and internships that reinforce learning and provide real-world experience. Students also have opportunities to engage with professors actively involved in research, contributing to knowledge in areas such as commercial law, economic analysis, and regulatory practices. The program’s structure allows for specialization or the development of broader interdisciplinary skills, enabling graduates to navigate complex legal and economic environments confidently.

The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, ethical judgment, and effective communication, which are vital skills in today's interconnected global economy. The program also emphasizes the importance of understanding diverse perspectives, regulatory environments, and the societal implications of economic and legal decisions. Graduates of the Business Economics and Law program are well-equipped for careers in law firms, government agencies, corporate legal departments, financial institutions, or to pursue further academic qualifications such as a law degree or a master’s in economics.

With access to the University of Alberta’s extensive resources, including libraries, research centers, and networking opportunities, students are prepared to succeed professionally and contribute meaningfully to their fields. The program promotes a collaborative learning environment, encouraging peer interactions, faculty mentorship, and participation in extracurricular activities related to economics and law. Overall, the Business Economics and Law program aims to produce versatile graduates who possess a unique blend of skills necessary to excel in complex, dynamic professional settings, and to adapt to the evolving demands of global markets and legal systems.