The department was launched during the inception of Wollega University in 2007. The department began its operation with three BA degrees holders hired as instructors and 31 students were enrolled to the program. Currently as part of the department’s vision to be a centre of excellence in teaching, research and community service in east Africa. It is working on these three pillars. There are two programs under the department i.e. Cooperative Accounting and Auditing & Cooperative Business Management. The department runs regular program and upgrading winter (equivalent to summer program) programs. We have finalized our preparation to receive and train applicants on Master of Arts in Cooperative Business Management starting from this year. Interested applicants have a chance to attend their education on any of the weekend, evening and summer programs the department offers. In line with the understanding the importance of quality of human resources, the staff profile to date is 1 PhD, 3 PhD candidates, 6 Masters Degree and 1 MA candidate. The Number of graduates from the department (first degree) has reached 507. Currently about 341 students (181 regular and 160 winter) are attending their education to get BA degree.