Augustana University

What you'll study

The programme blends core liberal arts coursework with specialised finance and financial management subjects. You study foundational topics in economics and accounting alongside finance modules that cover capital markets, corporate finance, investments and risk management. Coursework emphasises analytical tools and real‑world applications, including financial modelling, applied statistics, and spreadsheet and database skills.

• Core business and economics: microeconomics, macroeconomics, financial and managerial accounting, business law and ethics.
• Finance specialisms: corporate finance, investments and portfolio management, financial institutions and markets, international finance, and risk management.
• Quantitative and analytical skills: business statistics, econometrics basics, financial modelling and data analysis using industry‑standard tools.
• Applied learning: internship or practicum placements with regional employers, a capstone or senior seminar integrating theory and practice, and opportunities for student research or case competitions.
• Complementary electives: courses in computer science, marketing, management, and behavioural finance to broaden career options.

Students are encouraged to pursue preparatory coursework if they plan to sit professional exams (for example, preliminary CFA or CFP exam topics) and to participate in student organisations such as finance or investment clubs for practical experience.

Entry requirements

Admission is at undergraduate level and follows Augustana University’s general entry process. Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school diploma with a record of strong academic performance. Preparatory coursework in mathematics (algebra and preferably precalculus or calculus) and basic economics or accounting is advantageous.

• Submitted transcripts from secondary school (and any post‑secondary institutions, for transfers).
• Application materials may include a personal statement and one or more academic or professional references.
• Standardised test submission policies follow the university’s current guidance; applicants should consult the admissions office about optional testing and placement testing.
• Transfer students should provide college transcripts for review; prior coursework may be evaluated for credit toward the major.

International applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements and submit equivalent academic documentation as specified by the admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates typically move into roles across financial services, corporate finance and related sectors. The programme prepares students for both entry‑level positions and for further professional study.

• Common entry roles: financial analyst, investment analyst, credit analyst, commercial banking associate, financial advisor or planner, treasury analyst, and risk or compliance analyst.
• Industry employers: commercial and regional banks, investment firms, wealth management and financial planning practices, corporate finance departments, insurance companies and consulting firms.
• Further study and credentials: many students pursue graduate study (MBA, MS in Finance, or economics) or professional certifications such as the CFA, CFP or other licensing depending on career direction.

Augustana’s emphasis on internships and employer engagement helps graduates build networks in the regional financial sector and beyond.

Why study at Augustana University

Augustana offers a liberal arts setting with small class sizes, close faculty mentorship and a focus on ethical leadership—attributes that support development of well‑rounded finance professionals. The university’s location provides access to internships and employer relationships in a regional centre for banking, insurance and investment services.

• Personalised instruction: small seminars and faculty‑mentored projects that promote applied learning and professional skill development.
• Experiential opportunities: structured internships, capstone projects and student clubs that allow students to practise analysis, portfolio management and client communication.
• Integration with liberal arts: communication, critical thinking and problem‑solving skills developed across the curriculum that are highly valued by employers.

Students who value a grounded finance education within a broader liberal arts context will find Augustana’s programme prepares them for immediate employment and lifelong career development in the financial sector.