University of Findlay

What you'll study

This programme combines core business fundamentals with specialised finance topics to develop analytical, technical and communication skills. Courses cover financial accounting, managerial accounting, corporate finance, investments, portfolio management, financial markets, risk management, and principles of banking. Students also study taxation, estate and retirement planning, ethics in finance and financial statement analysis.

Practical skills are emphasised: financial modelling, spreadsheet and database applications for finance, valuation techniques, and presentation of investment recommendations. The curriculum typically includes a senior capstone or practicum project that integrates classroom learning with real-world financial problems and an internship requirement or strong encouragement to take an industry placement.

• Core finance modules: Corporate Finance; Investments and Portfolio Management; Financial Markets and Institutions; Risk Management and Insurance.
• Applied and supporting modules: Financial Statement Analysis; Advanced Excel and Financial Modelling; Personal Financial Planning and Taxation; Business Law and Ethics.
• Capstone and experience: Senior practicum/capstone project, internship or cooperative placement, and participation in finance or investment clubs and competitions.

Programme structure

The degree is built on general education requirements, business core courses and finance major courses. It is usually completed over four years of full-time study. Students may choose electives within financial management services to focus on areas such as wealth management, corporate treasury, commercial lending, or financial planning. Opportunities exist to gain additional credentials or to prepare for professional exams through elective content and faculty mentoring.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Admissions look for a strong foundation in mathematics (algebra and preferably precalculus), and recommended preparatory subjects include economics and accounting where available. Academic performance in secondary school, a personal statement, and references are considered.

Standardised tests may be optional depending on institutional policy; applicants should check current guidance from the University of Findlay. Mature applicants with relevant work experience or college coursework are considered through the university's admissions procedures. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements and provide documentation equivalent to a U.S. secondary school credential.

Typical admission guidance:

• A competitive high-school GPA and evidence of quantitative ability.
• Strong performance in mathematics and related coursework where possible.
• Submission of a personal statement and, when requested, letters of recommendation.
• Willingness to engage in internships and experiential learning during the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of finance-related roles in the public and private sectors. Common career paths include financial analyst, investment analyst, financial planner or advisor, commercial banker, credit analyst, treasury analyst, risk management associate and insurance underwriter. Graduates who pursue the financial management services emphasis often work in wealth management firms, community banks, credit unions, brokerage houses and corporate finance departments.

The programme also prepares students for professional credentials and further study. Graduates frequently pursue certifications such as CFP (Certified Financial Planner), CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) or graduate study in finance, accounting or business administration — noting that some professional routes require specific accounting coursework or additional qualifying classes.

Why study at University of Findlay

The University of Findlay offers a personalised learning environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring. The College of Business provides applied learning opportunities, including labs, simulation software and strong links with regional employers that support internships and placements. Faculty have practical experience in finance and emphasise ethical decision-making and professional readiness.

Students benefit from active student organisations, such as finance and investment clubs, networking events, and career services focused on employer connections and interview preparation. The campus culture supports hands-on learning and community engagement, helping students build both technical competence and professional networks for launching careers in finance.