Consumer Studies

What is consumer studies?

Consumer studies majors at Virginia Tech explore the relationships among consumers, businesses, and government, with a focus on the economic, social, and political forces that shape consumer experiences. You’ll build a strong foundation in consumer advocacy, personal finance, market research, and public policy through an interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates business, economics, and the social sciences. The program emphasizes critical thinking and communication while offering hands-on learning through case studies, projects, and close collaboration with faculty. With its small, supportive learning environment, the major prepares you for careers in fields such as advertising, public relations, management, and government, or for graduate study in related disciplines.

Why study consumer studies at Virginia Tech?

Gain real-world experience. Almost 90% of students complete internships at sites such as local businesses, national corporations, and market research firms.
Work in the Consumer Education Lab, a flexible space where you can research, plan, and develop consumer education materials and strategies for one-on-one and small-group education.
Learn from faculty who bring a blend of industry experience and academic expertise. You’ll find mentors who support — and can help you reach — your personal and career goals.
Study abroad at the Santa Reparata International School of Art in Florence, Italy, and explore design, sustainability, marketing, and consumerism in Italy.

Qualify to take the Accredited Financial Counselor certification exam by completing a two-course sequence. This nationally recognized credential represents the highest standard of excellence in financial counseling and education and is available because we are a Registered Education Program with the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education.
Connect with other students who are interested in consumer issues and awareness, professional development opportunities, and community service by joining the Consumer Interest organization at Virginia Tech.
Obtain membership while a student in the Virginia Association of Teachers in Family and Consumer Sciences and attend the annual conference to connect with alumni and other professionals.

Curriculum

What courses will I take?

To learn more about the courses you’ll take as a consumer studies major, review the Program Curriculum and course descriptions in the university catalog. In addition to required courses in economic well-being, product analysis, business fundamentals, and action learning, you’ll have plenty of options to personalize your degree through electives and Pathways courses.

Careers

Meet an alum

Natasha Laramie '16

While pursuing her consumer studies degree, Laramie completed an internship as the risk management and dealer compliance intern with FHLBanks Office of Finance. She is currently serving as an applications development analyst with Accenture in Washington, D.C.