The U.S. Culture and Business Practices (USB) program combines traditional training in business through core courses in the Gatton College of Business and Economics and a robust liberal arts education through UK’s College of Arts Sciences where students take courses spanning disciplines such as U.S. history, political science, anthropology, sociology, geography, and literary arts. In addition to a solid grounding in business fundamentals, such as marketing, management, and economics, students graduate from this unique program with the “soft skills” and human strengths desired by employers. As the business of life and the life of business become increasingly technologically enabled, a degree focused on building business acumen enhanced by a liberal arts education can improve student employment prospects.
Domestically and globally, employers value creativity and curiosity, critical thinking and analysis, problem-solving, adaptability, and communication skills. Year over year, employer surveys conducted by the American Association of Colleges and Universities consistently find employers rank these skills as highly desirable for a successful workforce. Internationally, the World Economic Forum found similar results in its 2023 “Future of Jobs” global survey of businesses. Acquisition of these skills and attitudes is a hallmark of liberal arts education that builds on and complements the grounding in business practices gained through this interdisciplinary program.
The U.S. Culture and Business Practices Program offers an extremely flexible degree in terms of jobs and career trajectories upon graduation. The degree prepares students to work in a variety of business, technological, cultural, community, and human-service fields. For example:
- Financial Analyst
- Entrepreneurship
- Human Resource Specialist
- Leadership and Development
- Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Managers
- Public Relations
- Training and Development Managers
- Non-governmental Organizations
- Market Research Analysts
- Social Media
- Hospitality
In addition to rewarding careers, alumni of the U.S. Culture and Business Practices program have pursued Graduate School opportunities with placements in schools such as New York University (NYU) and Duke. Whether you plan to enter the workforce after graduation or obtain an advanced degree, the USB program can prepare you to achieve your goals.
To learn more about possible career directions, opportunities for experiential learning, internships, and continuing graduate education, please visit the UK Stuckert Career Center.