Business and Finance Pathway

This is a one-semester introductory course in the field of microeconomics.  Students will survey the factors inherent in the American economic system of free enterprise that have made the United States the wealthiest and most successful nation in history.  Students will also take a close-up look at the economy.  The behaviors of individual households, business firms, governments and the choices they make will be explored.  This is an approved EEP course.  (Rhode Island College Course: ECON 214 – Principles of Microeconomics, 3 credits). 

A one-semester course exploring major components of the international financial system. It includes the study of foreign trade, the international monetary system, foreign exchange rates, foreign exchange markets, international financial markets, international banking, and the multinational corporation. Student projects include an international business proposal in which the student chooses an American based company and identifies a new international market to expand their business. 

Students have the opportunity to earn 3 credits through Rhode Island College at no cost to the student.This is a one-semester introductory course in the field of macroeconomics.  In this course, students will take an overall look at the economy.  Students will survey the goals of macroeconomics:  rapid economic growth, full employment, and stable prices.  Some of the topics explored will include production, income, employment, the monetary system, short and long-run models, interest rates, and inflation.  This is an approved EEP course.  (Rhode Island College Course: ECON 215 – Principles of Macroeconomics, 3 credits). 

Students learn how to navigate the financial decisions they must face and how to make informed decisions related to career exploration, budgeting, banking, credit, insurance, spending, taxes, saving, investing, buying/leasing a vehicle, living independently, and inheritance.  Development of financial literacy skills and an understanding of economic principles will provide the basis for responsible citizenship and career success.  Instruction in personal finance prepares students to function effectively as consumers, savers, investors, entrepreneurs, and active citizens.  On a personal note, students learn that their own human capital (knowledge and skills) is their most valuable resource. At the conclusion of this course, students will be certified by EverFi (a nationally recognized financial literacy program). This course is required here at SHS and is taught by Certified Financial Education Instructors (CFEI). 

In this interesting and immersive introductory business course, the student will learn basic marketing principles that shape the business landscape. The “Four P’s” of the marketing mix, the impact of various demographics on marketing decisions, and the role of social media and digital marketing in society will be highlighted. The buying and selling process and consumer behavior in the marketplace will be analyzed as well. A marketing plan and its importance to the short and long-term goals of a company will be explored along with the impact marketing has on the global stage. Public relations and the impact it has on building mutually beneficial relationships between organizations and their publics will be explored through a number of workplace simulations (writing press releases and holding an actual press conference). This class, along with Multimedia in Advertising will give the student a strong introduction into the role of marketing and advertising within the total business landscape.  

Financial Accounting is a comprehensive one-year course which presents accounting theory and practice at a higher level than Accounting I.  It is designed to provide the necessary accounting skills for those who plan to pursue a college education in the areas of business, finance, accounting, or management.  As real companies and current events are examined, the focus is not only on how business managers collect and record data, but also why the information is important as the basis for making decisions.  Financial Statement Analysis and Ethics in Business Practices are stressed.  This is an approved EEP course.  (University of Rhode Island:  BUS 201:  Financial Accounting, 3 credits)