Illinois College Expands Business Majors with High-Demand Career Opportunities

Illinois College launched two new cutting-edge business majors that equip students for careers in rapidly growing industries. Beginning in fall 2025, students can pursue majors in digital marketing and financial planning in addition to the ten existing majors in business areas.

These new programs underscore Illinois College's commitment to academic innovation and preparing students to Graduate READY for rewarding careers in fields driving the future of business. "We are committed to innovation and growth in our business programs. We ensure that IC students graduate with the skills they need to excel in a variety of dynamic careers," said Michael Harden, business department chair.

Real-world Skills that Lead to Jobs
Digital marketing and financial planning represent two of the fastest-growing sectors in the job market, offering exciting and lucrative career opportunities. These majors are designed to provide a strong foundation in business fundamentals while delivering specialized, real-world skills through hands-on projects, simulations, and courses led by industry professionals.

Illinois College has long been an essential partner in shaping the workforce of tomorrow. The College consistently develops programs that address the needs of employers and empower students to succeed in their chosen careers. Other recent new majors include nursing, mechanical engineering, and agribusiness, which offer opportunities to students and meet industry needs for highly-qualified professionals. Illinois College Provost Catharine O'Connell observes that "these new programs combine our longstanding educational excellence in the broad areas of critical thinking, communication skills, and problem solving with professional preparation in dynamic, in-demand fields, thus preparing students for lifelong success."

Hybrid Learning for Maximum Flexibility and Access to Expertise
Both programs combine the best of in-person and online learning experiences. Core business classes are taught on campus, while specialized upper-level select courses are delivered online by industry experts giving students leading-edge knowledge and tools.

Explore Your Future at Illinois College
These new majors are the latest example of Illinois College's dedication to preparing students for personal and professional success. The College is now accepting applications for admission for both freshmen and transfer students.