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Finance Major
The major in finance is designed to provide students with the financial knowledge and skills required for successful business careers. It attempts to give students a thorough understanding of the theoretical financial principles and the practical implementation of these principles in the world of business. Students learn how financial markets operate and how to make effective investment and financial decisions for firms and individuals. The major is designed to develop analytical skills and problem-solving abilities.
Finance knowledge and practice have become crucial for the success of corporations and of the individuals employed by them. Financial markets are the major conduits through which investments are channeled in the global marketplace. Understanding these markets and how to make investment decisions are crucial for success in business.
Finance majors in the College of Business Administration have an excellent opportunity to gain experience in the Pitt Business financial analysis laboratory. The $2.3 million, 3000 square foot facility allows for hands-on training with the equipment and technology used in the capital markets industry. The lab provides students with exposure to real-time financial information flows and analytic tools. It resembles the trading floor maintained by an investment bank or financial firm, and is equipped with 58 computer stations, tote display boards, a ticker, plasma display screens, and presentation technologies.
To earn the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) degree, finance majors must earn a minimum of 120 credits. Finance majors fulfill all arts and sciences foundation requirements as well as all BSBA core curriculum requirements. In addition to the BSBA core course, BUSFIN 1030 Introduction to Finance, at least 15 credits in finance course work are required for the finance major. A cumulative GPA of 2.25 (C+) is required in all courses applied toward a finance major. A C- or better is required in each course applied toward the finance major.
BSBA Core Course in Finance
| Course ID | Name |
|---|---|
| BUSFIN 1030 | Introduction to Finance |
This course must be completed with a C or better to take additional finance courses.
Required Finance Major Courses
| Course ID | Name |
|---|---|
| BUSFIN 1311 | Corporate Finance |
| BUSFIN 1321 | Investment Management |
Finance Electives (a minimum of three courses must be taken)
Please note that elective courses are offered on a rotating basis.
| Course ID | Name |
|---|---|
| BUSFIN 1316 | Advanced Corporate Finance |
| BUSFIN 1326 | The Efficiency of Capital Markets |
| BUSFIN 1327 | Futures and Options |
| BUSFIN 1328 | Capital Markets |
| BUSFIN 1331 | Financial Institutions and Markets |
| BUSFIN 1341 | International Finance |
| BUSFIN 1345 | Markets and Trading |
| BUSFIN 1351 | Financial Modeling |
| BUSFIN 1390 | Finance Internship** |
Elective courses are usually offered at least once a year. Please consult with a CBA advisor to determine elective availability in a particular term.
**Plans for internships must be approved by the CBA Career and Leadership Development Center before registration for the course is permitted.
Curriculum
CBA students may enhance their curriculum with options like the Certificate Program in International Business or the Certificate Program in Leadership and Ethics.