University of Utah

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational business education with specialised finance coursework. Early study covers core business subjects such as accounting, micro- and macroeconomics, statistics, business law and information systems. Major-level courses typically include corporate finance, investments, financial institutions, risk management, international finance, and financial statement analysis.

Students learn quantitative techniques for valuation, portfolio management and risk assessment, and gain experience with financial modelling and spreadsheet-based analysis. Many degree plans incorporate a capstone course or practicum in which students work on real or simulated client projects; optional electives and concentrations allow focus on areas such as corporate treasury, investment management, banking, personal financial planning or fintech.

• Foundations: financial accounting, managerial accounting, business analytics, principles of economics
• Core finance: corporate finance, investments, financial markets and institutions, financial modelling
• Applied topics: portfolio management, risk management, derivatives, international finance, real estate finance
• Practical experience: internships, student-managed investment funds, case projects and a senior capstone

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Utah requires completion of secondary education (or equivalent) and meeting the university's general undergraduate admissions criteria. Entry to the finance major often requires completion of specific lower-division prerequisite courses and satisfactory academic performance in general education and business gateway classes.

Typical prerequisites include introductory economics, college-level mathematics (algebra and calculus or quantitative reasoning), and introductory accounting or business courses. Applicants should consult the David Eccles School of Business admissions guidance for details on required courses, any progression or major declaration policies, and recommended academic preparation. English language proficiency and submission of supporting documents are required for international students.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles in corporate finance, investment analysis, commercial and investment banking, wealth management and financial planning. Common job titles include financial analyst, investment analyst, treasury analyst, credit analyst, financial planner, risk analyst and roles in lending, asset management and corporate development.

Many graduates pursue professional credentials such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Certified Financial Planner (CFP), or continue to graduate study such as an MBA. The programme’s practical components and internship opportunities also support transitions into fintech, real estate finance, consulting and roles with government agencies or regulators.

Why study at University of Utah

The University of Utah’s David Eccles School of Business offers finance students access to a broad mix of academic rigour and local industry engagement. Located in Salt Lake City, the university benefits from proximity to regional banks, investment firms and a growing fintech and technology sector, which supports internship and employment opportunities.

Students can take advantage of experiential learning resources such as student-managed funds, finance labs and industry speaker series, as well as dedicated career services and alumni networks that connect graduates with employers across the Intermountain West and beyond. The curriculum emphasises analytical skills and ethical decision-making, preparing students for both immediate employment and continued professional development.