Grand Valley State University

What you'll study

The programme is built on a business core that develops foundational skills in accounting, economics, quantitative methods and information systems, followed by specialised finance and financial planning coursework. You study subjects such as corporate finance, investments, financial markets, financial statement analysis, and risk management, alongside modules that emphasise personal financial planning including retirement planning, tax considerations, insurance and estate planning.

• Core business topics: financial accounting, managerial accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics, business law, management and marketing fundamentals.
• Finance and investments: corporate finance, portfolio theory, equity and fixed income analysis, derivatives, financial modelling and valuation techniques.
• Financial management services / financial planning: personal financial planning, retirement and estate planning, tax planning, insurance and risk management, client relationship management and ethics in financial services.
• Quantitative and technical skills: statistics, Excel and spreadsheet modelling, introductory programming for finance tools and use of financial databases; many students complete applied projects using real market data.
• Experiential learning: internships, practicum projects, a capstone or senior seminar, and opportunities to participate in student finance organisations and competitions.

Entry requirements

Admission is to Grand Valley State University and the Seidman College of Business. Applicants are expected to have a strong high school academic record with preparation in mathematics. Typical successful applicants will have completed courses in algebra and precalculus and show demonstrated aptitude in quantitative subjects. International applicants must meet the university's English proficiency requirements.

Selection for major coursework may require completion of introductory business prerequisites and a minimum academic standing once enrolled. Prospective students transferring from other institutions should consult the Seidman College for credit-transfer policies and prerequisite expectations.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across the financial services sector. Common entry-level positions include financial analyst, investment analyst, commercial or corporate banking associate, financial planner or client services associate at wealth management firms.

• Careers in wealth and asset management, financial planning firms, brokerage and investment firms, insurance companies and commercial banks.
• Opportunities in corporate finance departments, treasury, budgeting and financial reporting within non-financial corporations.
• Paths into compliance, risk management and financial consultancy, or further study such as MBA programmes and professional certifications (for example CFP, CFA or relevant regulatory licences).

Why study at Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley’s Seidman College of Business offers a curriculum that balances theory with practical application and strong industry engagement. Students benefit from experiential learning through internships, practicum courses and access to finance-focused student organisations and competitions that build professional experience.

The college maintains relationships with regional employers and provides career services to support internship placement and graduate recruitment. Small-class instruction, faculty with applied industry experience and resources such as finance labs and market-data tools help prepare graduates for immediate employment or further professional certification and study.