Widener University

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in business and quantitative skills before progressing to specialised finance topics. Early courses cover principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics, financial accounting, statistics and business communication. Core finance modules typically include corporate finance, investments and portfolio management, financial markets and institutions, and financial statement analysis.

Specialist and applied subjects reflect the Financial Management Services focus and may include personal financial planning, insurance and risk management, retirement planning, estate planning, and taxation for individuals. Students also study subjects supporting analytical decision-making such as business analytics, spreadsheet modelling and managerial finance. Ethical and regulatory aspects of finance are integrated throughout the curriculum.

Many students complete a capstone or practicum course that requires solving real-world problems for external clients or participating in a simulated trading lab. The programme emphasises experiential learning through internships, industry projects and opportunities to prepare for industry credentials such as the CFA, CFP or relevant banking certifications.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with a strong academic record. Admissions officers look for readiness in quantitative subjects, so completion of higher-level mathematics, statistics or economics at school is advantageous. Typical application materials include transcripts, a personal statement, and one or more academic or professional references.

Standardised test submission (for example SAT or ACT) may be optional according to current university policy; check Widener's admissions guidance for the latest position. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or other approved measures. Mature applicants and those with prior college credit may be considered under the university's transfer and non-traditional admissions pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of roles across the financial services sector. Common career destinations include corporate finance analyst roles, commercial and investment banking, wealth management and financial advisor positions, financial planning and insurance, and risk and compliance functions. The programme also prepares students for careers in asset management, treasury and financial operations, and consultancies that serve financial-sector clients.

The curriculum and co-curricular opportunities position graduates to pursue industry certifications (for example CFP or CFA exams) and to build practical experience through internships and employer partnerships. Widener's career services and alumni network can support job search, interview preparation and connections with regional employers in the Philadelphia metropolitan area and beyond.

Why study at Widener University

Widener combines a business-focused curriculum with an emphasis on applied learning and professional preparation. The School of Business offers small class sizes and direct access to faculty with practitioner experience, enabling personalised mentoring and project supervision. Proximity to a major urban market gives students access to internship and employer networks across banking, insurance and financial services.

Students benefit from hands-on facilities such as trading labs or simulation software, industry speaker series and opportunities to engage with local firms for practicum projects. Support services include academic advising, career counselling and workshops tailored to finance students preparing for certifications and graduate study. The university’s emphasis on ethical decision-making and experiential learning helps graduates enter the finance sector with both technical skills and professional judgement.