Finance as a FAU Major: A Deep Dive

Florida Atlantic University’s (FAU) finance major is designed to equip students with the analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills necessary for a successful career in the dynamic world of finance. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering a wide range of financial disciplines, preparing graduates for diverse roles in corporate finance, investment management, banking, and real estate.

Curriculum Highlights

The core curriculum focuses on fundamental financial principles, including financial accounting, investment analysis, corporate finance, and financial markets. Students learn to analyze financial statements, evaluate investment opportunities, manage financial risk, and understand the complexities of global financial markets. Beyond the core, students can specialize in areas such as:

• Investment Management: Deep dives into portfolio management, security analysis, derivative securities, and alternative investments.
• Corporate Finance: Focuses on financial planning, capital budgeting, working capital management, and mergers and acquisitions.
• Real Estate Finance: Examines the principles of real estate investment, development, and financing.

The program emphasizes quantitative skills, requiring students to develop proficiency in statistical analysis, financial modeling, and spreadsheet software. A strong foundation in these areas is crucial for analyzing complex financial data and making informed decisions.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

FAU recognizes the importance of practical experience and offers various opportunities for students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. These include:

• Internships: Students are encouraged to pursue internships at financial institutions, corporations, and government agencies. These experiences provide valuable insights into the industry and help students build their professional networks.
• Financial Trading Room: FAU’s state-of-the-art trading room provides students with hands-on experience in trading stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments using real-time market data.
• Student Organizations: Finance-related student organizations, such as the Financial Management Association, offer opportunities for networking, professional development, and participation in competitions.

Career Prospects

A finance degree from FAU opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as:

• Financial Analyst
• Investment Banker
• Portfolio Manager
• Financial Planner
• Credit Analyst
• Real Estate Analyst

The demand for skilled finance professionals is expected to grow in the coming years, making a finance degree a valuable asset for those seeking a challenging and rewarding career. FAU’s strong curriculum, experienced faculty, and emphasis on experiential learning provide students with the foundation they need to succeed in this competitive field. Furthermore, FAU’s location in South Florida provides access to a vibrant and growing financial services industry, offering numerous internship and job opportunities.