The specialization in Accounting and Economics focus on the use of accounting measurement to help make decisions. The point of departure is economics as the purpose of most business firms is to maximize profit. More generally the aim is to help the organization to maximize utility. Accounting has two main purposes - decision and control. Accounting is used for making product and organizational decisions. This includes deciding on the best product mix and pricing of products. Outsourcing is also a classical problem using inputs from accounting.
Finally it includes decisions on which departments to close or expand. The control use of accounting information is centered on performance evaluation and the use of accounting detains that. More generally this can be viewed as design of contracts between a head of a department and his subordinates. Accounting data is important in this context as it contains data about the profitability of the organizational unit. Economic theory is used to address questions on how to organize the accounting system of the firm.
General competences for the Economics profiles
The master's programme in Economics, cand.oecon., provides knowledge based on the highest international research within the profile area. MSc graduates in Economics are able to understand and on a scientific basis reflect on this knowledge as well as identify relevant scientific problems.
MSc graduates in Economics are able to work independently and with a systematic, goal-oriented and analytical approach to solve various problems, both individually and in collaboration with others. MSc graduates in Economics are able to structure their own learning and are capable of seeking and adapting new knowledge acquired from national and international sources.