The FutureReadyNYC Business & Finance Pathway offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in the business sector, with a focus on business management and marketing specialist occupational titles. This pathway equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to begin on the path to careers and higher education in the world of business and entrepreneurship.
The FutureReadyNYC Business & Finance Pathway aligns with labor market demands, which project significant growth in the business sector according to the NYS Department of Labor. The pathway prepares students for promising entry-level careers such as Operations Managers, Marketing Coordinators, Business Analysts, Sales Managers, and Digital Marketing Specialists.
Grounded in NYC-specific research, this pathway addresses the critical need for skilled business professionals in a rapidly evolving marketplace. As NYC continues to be a global hub for business innovation, there is a high demand for individuals who can manage operations efficiently and market products effectively. This pathway empowers NYC Public School students to become the next generation of business leaders, driving economic growth and innovation. By building new career-connected pathways aligned with "good jobs and careers," the Business & Finance Pathway aims to drive improved outcomes for students and communities.
The pathway consists of four sequential courses per occupational title:
Business Management/Operations
Course 1: Introduction to Business & Marketing
Introduction to Business and Marketing is designed to give students an overview of the Business Management and Marketing industry sectors. This course helps students prepare for the business world's growing complexities by examining basic business and marketing principles and exploring key aspects of leadership, ethical and social responsibilities, and careers.
To bridge the gap between classroom concepts and real-world Business Management and enhance student learning, students will initially select a business that interests them from the “Bringing Business to Life” list (provided in Unit 1) and apply the lesson concepts covered in class to their chosen business. Students are encouraged to work with one team member to complete projects and assignments throughout the semester. Through this task- and project-based approach, students will develop critical thinking, analysis, problem-solving, and information and resource management skills and a deep understanding of specific business and marketing strategies and how they relate to a specific business.
Course 2: Business Communications
Business Communications is a course designed to develop students’ effective oral and electronic business communications skills. This course develops skills in multiple methods of communications, including social media, as well as electronic publishing, design, layout, composition, and video conferencing. Upon completion of this course, proficient students will be able to demonstrate successful styles and methods for professional business communications using the proper tools to deliver effective publications and presentations.
Course 3: Business Management
Business Management is a course focusing on the development of the planning, organizing, leading, and controlling functions required for the production and delivery of goods and services. This applied knowledge course addresses the management role of utilizing the businesses’ resources of employees, equipment, and capital to achieve an organization’s goals. Upon completion of this course, proficient students will be able to complete a full review of an existing business and offer recommendations for improvement as would a management consultant.
Course 4: Business & Entrepreneurship
Business & Entrepreneurship is a capstone course intended to provide students with the opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge learned in previous Business courses within a simulated startup environment or authentic business setting. The course is structured to allow students the creativity to develop, launch, and market original business ideas. It is ideal for students who wish to pursue careers as future business owners or entrepreneurs. Practicum activities can take place around student-led startups under the supervision of the instructor, or in collaboration with a business incubator. Upon completion of the practicum, proficient students will be prepared to further develop their business ideas into viable ventures or continue their study at the postsecondary level.
Marketing Analyst
Course 1: Introduction to Business & Marketing
Introduction to Business and Marketing is designed to give students an overview of the Business Management and Marketing industry sectors. This course helps students prepare for the business world's growing complexities by examining basic business and marketing principles and exploring key aspects of leadership, ethical and social responsibilities, and careers.
To bridge the gap between classroom concepts and real-world business operations and enhance student learning, students will initially select a business that interests them from the “Bringing Business to Life” list (provided in Unit 1) and apply the lesson concepts covered in class to their chosen business. Students are encouraged to work with one team member to complete projects and assignments throughout the semester. Through this task- and project-based approach, students will develop critical thinking, analysis, problem-solving, and information and resource management skills and a deep understanding of specific business and marketing strategies and how they relate to a specific business.
Course 2: Principles of Marketing Management
Principles of Marketing Management is a course that focuses on the study of marketing concepts and their practical applications. Students will examine the risks and challenges that marketers face to establish a competitive edge in the sale of products and services. Topics covered include foundational marketing functions such as promotion, distribution, and selling, as well as coverage of economics fundamentals, international marketing, and career development. Upon completion of this course, proficient students will understand the economic principles, the marketing mix, and product development and selling strategies.
Course 3: Social Media & Analytics
Social Media & Analytics is a course designed to study concepts and principles used in social media marketing. Students will examine the uses, marketing strategies and data generated by social media marketing. Subject matter includes foundational social media knowledge, social media marketing strategies, communication, and ethical responsibilities.
Course 4: Advertising & Public Relations
Advertising & Public Relations is an applied knowledge course focusing on the concepts and strategies associated with promoting products, services, ideas, and events. This course addresses skills essential to the creative side of the industry and explores consumer behavior patterns and motivations for buying. Upon completion of this course, proficient students will be able to demonstrate understanding in fundamental advertising and public relations concepts.
