Finance (STEM)

Finance

The long-run health of any company requires that decisions made by executives and managers be based on sound financial principles. Because nearly every aspect of business can be viewed through the lens of finance, it provides the foundation of virtually all business decision-making. The Finance curriculum at Duquesne is grounded in the theory and practice of finance. Financial managers must master the practical aspects of their jobs and respond effectively to change. To do so, they must understand why companies and financial markets behave the way they do, which requires a grasp of financial concepts and principles. Such a grasp enables business leaders to understand what is happening around them, ask the right questions when conditions change, and analyze the correct problems.

Students can customize their Finance experience by specializing in one of these two tracks:

1. Finance (Corporate Finance and Investments):
   In Corporate Finance, you’ll learn how to evaluate business opportunities and make data-driven decisions that boost value. Here strategic analysis meets real-world impact—perfect for launching a career with top firms. Learn to make smart money moves for big companies. In Investments, you’ll learn how to design winning portfolios for individuals and institutions. Plus, the curriculum prepares you to sit for Level 1 of the CFA exam! If you are into stocks, bonds, and building wealth, Investments is an ideal track for future asset managers and financial advisors.
2. Financial Planning:
   Our Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) Board–approved Financial Planning Track gets you career-ready to become a trusted financial planner. You’ll build the skills to guide individuals, families, and small businesses through major life decisions—making a real difference while building a rewarding career. The curriculum covers investment strategy, retirement and estate planning, tax and risk management, and more—all with a hands-on, real-world focus. Plus, you’ll be eligible to sit for the CFP® exam, the gold standard in wealth management. With demand for financial planners on the rise, there’s never been a better time to turn your business degree into a purpose-driven profession.

Required Courses

A Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (B.S.B.A.) requires a minimum of 120 earned credits, 51 of which must be from the Business Core courses. 

Students entering the School of Business are expected to inform their Student Success Coach about their career objectives and their desired major(s) and minor(s) and to consult with them when planning their program of study. The student's curriculum path must include the requirements of their specific major (listed below), University Bridges courses, and Business School Core courses. 

Finance-Corporate Finance and Investments Track Required Courses

Total credits: 18

Finance Elective Courses

Students are required to 6 credits of elective courses.

Finance-Financial Planning Track Required Courses

Total Credits: 24

Finance majors should take FINC 313 during their sophomore year or as soon as prerequisites have been met. To major in Finance, students must pass FINC 313 with a grade of 'C' or better. 

Finance Minor Courses

Total credits: 15

Plus two of the following:

ACCT 311, ACCT 312, ACCT 315, and ECON 481W may not be counted toward the Finance minor.