Learn
Develop the specialized knowledge and skills needed to help consumers solve everyday problems. You'll explore consumer economics, personal finance, and behavioral economics to gain an understanding of the role of consumers in the marketplace while learning to analyze data using financial and statistical tools.
Do
Complete internships at organizations like PepsiCo, the Federal Trade Commission, and the Illinois Attorney General's office. Conduct independent research through coursework and dedicated studies with faculty members on topics like college student credit card debt and university housing policy.
Advance
Pursue career opportunities as a financial analyst, data analyst, consumer fraud investigator, banker, insurance underwriter, or retail manager. Your knowledge of behavioral economics will prepare you to work for government agencies and nonprofit organizations that improve the lives of consumers, or to attend graduate school in applied economics, business, or law.
Students who entered the University of Illinois during Fall 2026 or prior were admitted to our old major structure, which included one major and nine concentrations. You can learn more about those concentrations here. Students majoring in ACE: Consumer Economics and Finance are permitted to apply to transfer into the new curriculum. The major which is most closely aligned with the Consumer Economics and Finance concentration is Consumer Economics and Finance, BS. Unsure of which curriculum is best for you? Check out our pre-recorded info session, available here.
