Finance, BS

Major

On Campus, Day

Economics, History and Political Science

BSAD students discussing economy at conference table

In Short

In this major taught jointly by the Business Administration and Economics Faculty, students will develop practical skills and a theoretical background in a competitive and thorough 42-credit finance major.

Program Overview

The finance major offers courses in economics, business, and finance to introduce students to relevant financial and economic theory, financial markets and the institutional structure of the financial sector. Students will apply fundamental concepts of finance and financial literacy to investment analysis, financial planning, market analysis and the assessment of risk for both individuals and firms.

The program aligns with the university's mission to blend liberal arts and sciences and professional programs as it combines courses in economics, business, finance and mathematics. Students will learn to both analyze markets and to organize data in spreadsheets. They will critically evaluate financial instruments and apply valuation models. Students will have the tools to assess assets and securities so as to make financial decisions and manage portfolios over time.

Students graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Finance will be prepared to work in the financial sector in a variety of roles including but not limited to those in market analysis, corporate finance or financial advising. Students will learn to apply valuation models and leave with the ability to manage financial securities and analyze financial markets in terms of risk, growth potential, and term life. Students will understand of the structure of financial institutions and their impact on financial planning, portfolio management, and market fluctuations. Finance majors will gain practical skills in market data analysis and refinement and develop financial literacy for financial management and planning.

The major consists of 11 required courses and 3 electives (42 credits) with core courses such as BSAD2400: Basic Finance, FIN3000: Corporate Finance, and FIN3100: Investments.

We also have a Finance minor, which is a great complement to many disciplines! The minor is made up of 6 courses for a total of 18 credits with ample flexibility in course selection.

A degree in Finance opens the door to careers in institutional advising, corporations, and banking in roles including private equity, financial planning and analysis, and investment banking (Corporate Finance Institute).

The job market for finance is large and growing with the Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasting 800,000 new jobs in the industry over the next decade. The 2026 median pay for a professional with a finance degree in Boston is $100,635 (ZipRecruiter), approximately $8,000 over the national average.

Business students at conference table with male presenting to class.

Real-time stock ticker in Percival Hall

The real-time stock ticker and financial literacy reception area on the first floor of Percival Hall is more than just a display; it showcases learning tools that bring financial markets to life, helping students track real-time data, analyze trends, and build essential financial skills that will serve them long.

Study Abroad

Faculty-led study abroad course opportunities increase student life-transforming experiences, as do student/faculty cooperative research projects.

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Degree and Four-Year Plan of Study

This information is coming soon.

BS, Finance - Program information from the University Catalog.
Four-Year Plans of Study - Required and elective courses for program completion.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to critically and systematically evaluate evidence to make or recommend financial decisions using quantitative reasoning and written communication.
Students will demonstrate understanding of the relationship between the financial system and the macroeconomics as well as how central bank policies impact the financial markets.
Students will demonstrate understanding of corporate valuation and apply tools of finance in capital budgeting, capital structure, dividend policy, mergers and acquisitions and other areas to maximize shareholder value.
Students will be able to assess investments in terms of risk and return to guide financial planning and portfolio management for both firms and individuals.
Students will demonstrate understanding of financial markets and critically evaluate financial instruments, such as stocks, bonds and index funds, in context.
Student will demonstrate financial literacy skills by analyzing and evaluating personal and corporate financial statements.
Students will apply different valuation models to evaluate stocks and fixed income securities and calculate returns.