Finance Major Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide

If you're interested in the world of money and markets, a finance major can be the perfect choice for your undergraduate studies. Not only does it open doors to a wide range of lucrative career opportunities, but it also provides a solid foundation in financial knowledge and skills. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the requirements for a finance major, including coursework, career paths, and key facts about the field.

Key Facts about Finance Major

Before diving into the specific requirements, let's start with some key facts about the finance major. A finance major is a field of study that focuses on the management of money, investments, and financial systems. It provides students with a deep understanding of financial theory, analysis, and decision-making.

Curriculum

The curriculum for a finance major may vary depending on the university or college you attend. However, there are some core courses that are commonly included in most finance programs. These courses cover essential topics such as financial management, investments, corporate finance, and financial markets.

RBS Core Courses

The Rutgers Business School (RBS) offers a finance major with a set of core courses designed to provide students with a strong foundation in finance. Some of the core courses offered by RBS include:

• Financial Management
• Investments
• Corporate Finance
• Financial Markets and Institutions

University Requirements

When pursuing a finance major, you'll also need to fulfill certain university requirements. These requirements may include general education courses in subjects such as English, mathematics, and social sciences. It's important to check with your specific university for the exact requirements.

Major Requirements

Along with university requirements, finance majors also have specific major requirements. These requirements typically include a set number of credit hours in finance-related courses. For example, at Temple University, the major requirements for a finance major include:

• Summary of Requirements
• Go back to AcademicsMore in Finance Major
• Follow Temple University

Department of Finance

The Department of Finance at the W. P. Carey School of Business at ASU offers a bachelor's degree program in finance. The program has specific graduation requirements that students must fulfill to earn their degree.

Required Finance Courses

Students pursuing a finance major at ASU must complete a set of required finance courses. These courses cover various aspects of finance, including financial analysis, financial planning, and investment management.

Major Proficiency Requirements

In addition to the required courses, students must also demonstrate proficiency in certain areas of finance. This may include completing a capstone project or passing a comprehensive exam.

Career Paths

A finance major opens up a wide range of career paths. Graduates can pursue careers in investment banking, corporate finance, financial planning, consulting, and more. The skills and knowledge gained through a finance major provide a strong foundation for success in the finance industry.

Finance Major Salaries and Jobs

One of the key considerations for many students when choosing a major is the potential salary and job prospects. Finance majors are known for their excellent earning potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for financial analysts was $83,660 in May 2020. The job outlook for finance majors is also promising, with a projected growth rate of 5% from 2019 to 2029.

Next Steps

If you're considering a finance major, here are some next steps to help you get started:

• Research universities and colleges that offer finance programs.
• Review the specific requirements for each program.
• Attend information sessions or open houses to learn more about the programs.
• Speak with current finance majors or professionals in the field to gain insights.
• Prepare your application materials, including transcripts, test scores, and personal statements.
• Submit your applications before the deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions about finance majors:

What is the difference between accounting and finance majors?

While both accounting and finance majors deal with financial matters, they have different focuses. Accounting majors primarily deal with recording and analyzing financial transactions, while finance majors focus on financial management, investments, and decision-making.

Can you become a CPA with a finance degree?

Yes, you can become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with a finance degree. However, you'll need to meet additional requirements, such as completing specific accounting coursework and passing the CPA exam.

Is a finance major a BA or BS?

The classification of a finance major as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) may vary depending on the university or college. Some institutions offer a BA in Finance, while others offer a BS in Finance. The difference between the two degrees is often related to the specific coursework requirements.

What are popular dual majors for finance majors?

Many finance majors choose to pursue dual majors to complement their finance education. Popular dual majors for finance majors include economics, accounting, mathematics, and computer science.

Conclusion

A finance major provides an excellent foundation for a successful career in the finance industry. By understanding the requirements and opportunities available, you can make an informed decision about pursuing a finance major. Whether you're interested in investment banking, financial planning, or corporate finance, a finance major can open doors to a wide range of exciting career paths.