University of Chicago

What you'll study

The curriculum emphasises core finance topics taught with a strong quantitative and economic underpinning. Typical modules include Principles of Finance, Corporate Finance, Investments and Portfolio Theory, Financial Accounting, Financial Markets and Institutions, and Risk Management. Students also study supporting subjects such as Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Probability and Statistics, and Mathematical Methods for Finance.

Advanced and elective options often cover Derivatives and Fixed Income, Corporate Valuation, Behavioural Finance, Financial Modelling, Computational Finance, and Machine Learning applications in finance. Many programmes include a capstone project or supervised honours thesis in which students apply empirical techniques to real or simulated financial datasets. Practical learning is reinforced through case studies, trading simulations, and opportunities for internships or industry-sponsored projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic ability, particularly in mathematics and quantitative subjects. Typical entry profiles include high grades in calculus, mathematics or statistics at A-level or equivalent (for UK applicants), or a high secondary school GPA with a rigorous course load (for international applicants). Relevant qualifications commonly include strong scores in Advanced Placement (AP) maths/economics or the International Baccalaureate (IB) higher-level mathematics courses.

Admissions decisions are based on the whole application: academic transcripts, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Competitive applicants also show evidence of quantitative aptitude, interest in financial markets or economics, and relevant extracurricular engagement. Some programmes may recommend or require prior study in economics or accounting but often allow students to build those skills in their first year.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across the financial sector and related fields. Common destinations include investment banking, asset and portfolio management, wealth management, corporate finance and treasury, risk management, financial consulting, and roles at fintech companies. Others move into regulatory bodies, central banks, accounting firms, or pursue further study in finance, economics, or business.

The analytic and data skills developed on the programme also prepare graduates for careers in consulting, data science and quantitative research. Many students complement academic study with internships that lead directly to graduate roles; others progress to postgraduate qualifications such as a professional accounting designation, CFA studies, or a master's in finance or economics.

Why study at University of Chicago

The University of Chicago offers a rigorous, theory-driven approach to financial study grounded in the university’s strength in economics and quantitative research. Students benefit from access to world-renowned faculty, research centres such as the Becker Friedman Institute, and interdisciplinary opportunities across economics, mathematics, computer science and law.

UChicago supports practical career development through strong employer engagement and career services that help secure internships and graduate placements. The university’s location and extensive alumni network provide connections across financial centres and fintech startups. Additional resources such as entrepreneurship support from the Polsky Center and workshops on financial modelling and data methods help students translate academic skills into workplace-ready capabilities.