Course Description
This year-long course combines fundamental economic principles with practical, real-world personal finance management. Students study economic forces such as supply, demand, and market structures while gaining critical financial literacy skills in budgeting, banking, credit, taxes, investing, and risk management. Fully integrated with FBLA competitions and financial simulations, the course challenges students to evaluate the financial consequences of their decisions and apply their learning by constructing personal budgets and financial plans.
Core Topics
Introduction to Business & Economics: Supply and demand, market structures, global economic systems, and forms of business ownership.
Personal Financial Planning & Budgeting: Career impact on income, short/long-term goal setting, net worth, and fixed vs. variable expense tracking.
Banking, Credit & Debt Management: Financial institutions, checking/savings account management, credit scores, interest, and responsible loan management.
Investing & Wealth Building: Stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, stock market operations, and retirement planning basics (401k, Roth IRA).
Risk Management & Consumer Protection: Types of insurance (auto, health, life), consumer rights, identity theft prevention, and fraud awareness.
Business Ethics & Career Development: Ethical decision-making frameworks, leadership styles, career exploration, and professional portfolio development.