Proposed Bachelor of Science Program in Energy Economics and Finance

Minot State University’s College of Business proposes a new Bachelor of Science degree program in Energy Economics and Finance. The program will provide students with the knowledge essential to understand the business theory, practice, and processes necessary for analyzing the feasibility of projects in the energy industry.

Program Objectives
This program is being developed to address the following objectives:

1. To meet the financial analysis needs of the energy industry in the Great Plains.
2. To prepare future business managers to meet energy challenges through
1. understanding the historical practice and theory of energy markets,
2. examining energy industry-specific approaches to financial analysis and practice; and
3. critically analyzing energy products and problems using appropriate data and technology tools.
3. To evaluate alternative energy sources for suitability in meeting energy users’ needs.
4. To contribute to our nation’s energy independence and security by educating a workforce dedicated to energy analysis.

Curriculum Description
As a foundation for the program, students will complete the general education requirements and the entire set of required business core courses, across the range of business disciplines (accounting, finance, economics, business law, management, marketing, management information systems, business communications, spreadsheet applications, and statistics). From that base, students will complete a set of required major program courses devoted to understanding and analyzing financial problems in the energy industry, focusing on additional accounting, finance, and economic courses, with at least two courses in geology as an introduction to energy resources. Finally, students may complement this foundation with options in Geology, MIS, Computer Science, Engineering Studies, Entrepreneurship, Community and Environment, or a selection of general electives.

Program Targets
This program will answer an unmet need by educating students for a range of business analysis positions in the energy industry.

1. Business and financial analyst or project analyst for an energy company
2. Energy loan specialist for a financial institution
3. Energy economist
4. Corporate Planner
5. Leading eventually to a CFO or CEO position

While some emphasis will be placed on analysis of the petroleum industry, the program will also provide consideration and analysis of other forms of energy, including wind, coal, electric, biomass, biodiesel, and combinations thereof. Currently, no such program exists in higher educational institutions within the state of North Dakota or the entire upper Great Plains region.

Anticipated Start Date
Fall 2009