Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

The programme combines core finance theory with applied quantitative and professional practice. Students typically take a mix of required and elective modules that build expertise in valuation, portfolio management, risk assessment and financial statement analysis while emphasising regulatory and ethical considerations.

• Core topics: Corporate finance, investments and portfolio theory, fixed income and derivatives, and financial statement analysis.
• Quantitative and analytical skills: Financial modelling, econometrics for finance, applied statistics, and use of tools such as Excel, Bloomberg or similar market data platforms.
• Risk and compliance: Risk management, credit analysis, and regulatory environment for financial institutions.
• Financial planning and services: Personal financial planning, retirement and wealth management, and principles of financial advisory services.
• Capstone and practicum options: Many students complete a capstone project, applied research paper or internship that integrates classroom learning with workplace challenges.

Programme delivery mixes seminars, case studies, hands‑on labs and group projects. Electives allow specialisation in areas such as corporate treasury, investment management, financial technology or fixed income strategies.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, accounting, business or a related discipline. Candidates with degrees in other fields who demonstrate quantitative aptitude and relevant work experience may also be considered.

• Academic qualifications: An accredited undergraduate degree with satisfactory academic standing. Some applicants may be asked to supply transcripts showing coursework in statistics, economics or accounting.
• Quantitative readiness: Evidence of mathematical or statistical ability through prior coursework or professional experience. Programs commonly recommend familiarity with college‑level calculus and statistics.
• Work experience: While not always required, professional experience in finance, banking, accounting or related areas can strengthen an application, particularly for applicants from non‑finance backgrounds.
• Supporting materials: A statement of purpose outlining career goals, letters of recommendation, and a current résumé are typically required. International applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles across financial services, corporate finance and advisory firms. The programme prepares students for positions that require analytical rigour, regulatory awareness and client communication skills.

• Investment analyst, portfolio manager or research associate in asset management firms and institutional investors.
• Corporate finance analyst, financial planning and analysis (FP&A) specialist, or treasury analyst within corporations.
• Risk analyst, credit analyst or compliance officer at banks, credit unions and other financial institutions.
• Financial planner, wealth advisor or private client associate within advisory and wealth management practices.
• Career pathways also include consulting roles focused on finance transformation, valuation and transaction advisory, and opportunities in fintech firms where financial modelling and data skills are in demand.

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University offers this degree within a business‑focused environment that emphasises applied learning and close interaction with faculty. The programme benefits from accessible class sizes, opportunities for internships in the Detroit‑area financial and corporate market, and integration with university career services that help connect students with employers.

• Applied focus: Emphasis on practical projects, financial modelling labs and career‑oriented capstones.
• Location advantages: Proximity to regional financial centres and businesses provides internship and networking opportunities.
• Support services: Career counselling, employer networking events and student organisations in finance and investment help students prepare for professional roles.
• Flexible pathways: Options to tailor electives toward investment management, corporate finance or financial services to match career objectives.