Understanding finance is a critical component in today's business environment, and it can be defined as the art and science of managing money. Many firms, businesses, institutions and governmental agencies in our economic system have problems obtaining, administering and managing funds efficiently and wisely. Nearly every decision made by an organization has important financial implications. 

Housed in the Department of , the Finance major at Florida State University is designed as preparation for a broad variety of careers since all organizations need individuals knowledgeable about finance. Careers may be in financial management and analysis, banking, financial institutions, financial markets, investments, portfolio analysis and management, financial planning, and multinational finance. Finance is also considered good preparation for graduate study in law or business.