Valparaiso University

What you'll study

The programme blends foundational coursework in finance with specialised classes focused on financial management services. In your first years you take core business and liberal arts requirements alongside introductory courses such as Principles of Financial Accounting, Principles of Micro- and Macroeconomics, Business Statistics, and Principles of Finance. Upper-level major courses typically include Corporate Finance, Investments, Financial Markets and Institutions, Risk Management and Insurance, Financial Planning, and Wealth Management.

Students also study quantitative and technical tools used in the profession: financial modelling, spreadsheet-based analysis, and applied valuation techniques. Ethics, professional responsibility and regulatory aspects of financial services are woven through electives and seminars. The programme normally culminates in a capstone experience—often a practicum, consulting project or research seminar—and encourages completion of an internship to gain workplace experience.

Typical modules and subjects

• Principles of Finance
• Corporate Finance and Financial Management
• Investments and Portfolio Management
• Financial Markets and Institutions
• Risk Management & Insurance
• Personal Financial Planning and Wealth Management
• Business Statistics and Quantitative Analysis
• Financial Modelling and Valuation
• Accounting for Financial Decisions
• Ethics in Finance and Regulatory Environment

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a strong secondary school record with coursework that demonstrates quantitative aptitude—calculus or precalculus and at least one course in economics or accounting are recommended. Valparaiso University considers the overall academic profile, extracurricular involvement and letters of recommendation. Standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) may be submitted but the university has historically operated a test-optional policy; check the latest admissions guidance for current practice.

International applicants must present equivalent secondary qualifications and demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternative pathways. Transfer applicants should have completed college-level coursework in mathematics and introductory business or economics to be considered for direct entry into upper-level finance courses.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across financial services and corporate finance. Typical entry-level jobs include financial analyst, investment analyst, commercial or retail banking associate, financial planner or assistant wealth manager, and risk/insurance analyst. The programme also prepares students for roles in corporate treasury, credit analysis, compliance, and financial operations.

Many students follow professional certification pathways such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) exams or Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential, or continue into graduate study (MBA, MS in Finance) to advance into senior finance positions. The internship component and Valparaiso’s alumni and employer networks support placement with regional and national firms, including banks, investment firms, advisory practices and corporate finance departments.

Why study at Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University offers a liberal-arts grounded business education that combines small-class teaching with opportunities for applied learning. Students benefit from personalised faculty mentoring, career services focused on internship and employer connections, and experiential learning through capstone projects and practicum placements. The campus environment emphasises ethical leadership and community engagement—attributes that are particularly valued in client-facing financial careers.

The programme’s curriculum is designed to balance technical competence with communication and critical-thinking skills, preparing graduates to adapt in a rapidly changing financial services landscape. Students looking for a blend of rigorous finance training and hands-on experience will find the structure and career support at Valparaiso well suited to their goals.