Courses in finance provide students the opportunity to learn the techniques and theories that lend structure to the financial decisions made by firms and individuals. Foundation topics include traditional corporate finance, valuation of financial and real assets, and investment decisions. Advanced coursework may include portfolio management, valuation of derivative securities, international financial management, domestic and global capital markets, financial institutions, and real estate analysis.

Graduating finance majors typically seek employment in the financial, banking, or corporate sectors. Entry-level positions include budget, credit, financial, risk, or securities analyst; financial services representative, planner, or counselor; loan officer or underwriter; insurance or real estate agent; and business and real estate appraiser. Many mid-career graduates will place at local and national corporations. In the long term, individuals with backgrounds in finance can manage their respective careers to include executive positions and business ownership.

The Finance and Quantitative Methods Department does not require that applicants hold specific degrees or majors, and individuals from many academic areas have done well in the program. Recently admitted students have degrees in the natural sciences, engineering, and computer science as well as the more traditional areas of finance, economics, and business administration.

Accepted students receive full tuition waivers and graduate assistantship stipends, which are quite competitive. Additional financial support may include fellowships, generous travel allowances, and the opportunities for summer teaching and research. Significant financial enhancements are offered to highly qualified applicants.