University of Minnesota

What you'll study

This undergraduate degree combines foundation business subjects with specialised finance modules. Early years cover core topics such as financial accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics, business statistics and introductory finance to build numerical and analytical skills. In later years students take more advanced courses in corporate finance, investments, financial markets and institutions, risk management, derivatives, fixed income securities and financial statement analysis.

• Core business foundation: accounting, economics, business law, statistics and business communication.
• Finance major modules: corporate finance, investment analysis, portfolio management, financial modelling, international finance and financial institutions.
• Specialist and applied topics: risk management, derivatives, fixed income, real estate finance, personal financial planning and ethics in finance.
• Practical learning: case studies, group projects, a trading lab or simulation exercises, and an applied capstone or practicum that integrates finance tools with decision-making.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: data analytics, computer applications in finance, entrepreneurship, and courses in public policy or sustainability to broaden career possibilities.

Students are encouraged to complete internships and may take advantage of opportunities to participate in student investment funds, the CFA Research Challenge, or industry practicum experiences that connect classroom learning to the Twin Cities financial sector.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school qualification. Strong performance in mathematics (including algebra and preferably calculus), economics and other quantitative subjects is important. Admissions decisions take into account high-school grades, the strength of the academic programme taken, personal statements and any required application materials.

• Academic preparation: algebra and precalculus or calculus, plus coursework in economics where available.
• Typical supporting materials: transcripts, personal statement, and any school-specific forms. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through approved tests or qualifications.
• Transfers and mature applicants: equivalent college-level coursework and transcripts are considered; relevant work experience can strengthen an application.

Specific admission policies and any programme prerequisites may vary, so applicants should consult the university’s admissions pages for the most up-to-date guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates commonly move into roles across corporate, public and personal finance sectors. Typical entry-level positions include financial analyst, credit analyst, commercial banking associate, investment analyst, treasury analyst and financial planning associate.

• Corporate finance: roles in capital budgeting, financial planning and analysis, and corporate treasury.
• Capital markets and asset management: positions in investment research, portfolio management, sales & trading and wealth management.
• Banking and lending: commercial lending, credit-risk analysis and branch management pathways.
• Advisory and risk roles: risk management, compliance, consulting and financial controls.
• Personal finance: certified financial planner pathways and roles in insurance or private client advisory.

Many graduates also pursue professional qualifications such as the CFA or CFP, or continue to postgraduate study in finance, business administration or related fields.

Why study at University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota brings a combination of rigorous academics and strong industry connections. The Carlson School of Management (the university’s principal business school) provides focused finance teaching, access to a finance trading room and dedicated career services that connect students with employers across the Twin Cities, a major regional financial centre.

• Experiential learning: hands-on projects, student investment groups, competitions and internships that prepare students for real-world roles.
• Industry access: proximity to a broad range of banks, asset managers, insurance companies and corporate headquarters supports networking and placement.
• Support and development: career coaching, mentorship from alumni and professional development resources help students translate academic skills into careers.

Overall, the programme is well suited to students seeking a quantitative, career-focused finance education grounded in applied learning and strong employer engagement.