•   Corporate Financial Management

Cash flow is the most critical factor affecting the continuance of operations for any business manager who makes decisions regarding the selection of long term investments which maximize the firm's value, while seeking financing for such projects at a minimum cost. In addition, he or she often determines credit term strategic planning. Persons who can effectively and efficiently acquire and budget cash for corporate investing operating and financing activities are in great demand in today's aggressive corporate environment. Multinational Financial Management (FIN 440) is a typical course for students desiring a career in this area of finance.

•   Investment Management

Investment management specializes in the interaction between investors and the financial markets; providing investors with a return on their investments, and companies with financial capital. A comprehensive knowledge of the investment process not only leads to an enhancement of your personal financial welfare, but also leads to a rewarding career. Career opportunities in investment management, such as a registered representative, and account executive or an investment analyst with a national or local brokerage firm, are often well-paid positions with significant opportunities for advancement. Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management (FIN 475) is a popular investment management elective in the finance academic curriculum.           

•   Financial Institution Management

Financial institutions such as commercial banks, savings and loan associations, credit unions and life insurance and investment companies provide a diverse assortment of employment opportunities for the student who completes the finance program. Success in this area requires a detailed knowledge of factors influencing the rise and fall of interest rates, the regulations to which financial institutions are subject and the various types of financial instruments. While some graduates pursue managerial positions, others specialize in areas such as real estate, small business lending or individual finance and investment counseling for the bank's clientele.

•   Internships

Prior to graduation many students opt to pursue a paid internship position in banking or other financial institutions, government agencies or private sector industrial firms. Internships serve to guide career choices in that they provide the student with the opportunity to experience actual employment within the profession they are contemplating, while they are completing their degree. In addition, internships supplement the classroom theory with "real-Life" exposure to the financial employment marketplace and facilitate the perception of the foundational academic concepts through practical experience.

•   Professional Certifications in Finance

Statistics show that the annual earnings of those possessing professional licensure and/or certification in their vocation, excess that of their colleagues in comparable employment positions by $7,500 to $10,000. Professional certification is a valuable asset to your future employer and on your resume! The Certified Financial Manager (CFM), the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) are Professional Certifications available in the corporate, investment and personal areas of finance. For more information about professional certifications, and local organization membership please inquire of a faculty or staff member