major in finance
Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance
B.B.A. in Finance Program Overview
When it comes to pursuing a career in the world of finance, the Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance is an excellent choice for aspiring professionals. The BBA in Finance program offers a comprehensive overview of finance-related fields, allowing students to learn about essential concepts such as investments, corporate finance, financial planning, real estate, insurance, and banking.
College:
College of Business
Department chair name:
Matt Vega
B.A., J.D.
Program Coordinator:
Mr. Michael Prentice
Learning at FHU
Why study finance at FHU?
With small upper-level classes, you’ll get the opportunity to learn from experienced faculty members who have a wealth of financial knowledge. Our degree program covers a wide range of economic areas, giving you valuable skills for a career in banking, investments, financial planning, real estate, insurance, corporate finance, and more. FHU’s status in the prestigious CFA Institute University Affiliation Program means you’re well-positioned to earn the Chartered Financial Analyst® designation.
Program Highlights:
- Get one-on-one attention from experienced faculty
- Small upper-level class sizes
- Develop a diverse skillset in finance
- Access to the CFA Institute University Affiliation Program
- Graduate prepared to pass the Chartered Financial Analyst® exam
- Enjoy a supportive and uplifting educational experience
Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance Four-Year Plans
Studying for a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance can be a rewarding experience that sets you up for a successful career in the financial industry. Freed-Hardeman University offers a range of diverse and exciting four-year plans to suit any student’s schedule and future aspirations.
2023-2024 4-Year Plan(s)
2022-2023 4-Year Plan(s)
2021-2022 4-Year Plan(s)
2020-2021 4-Year Plan(s)
Careers for Finance Majors
As a student pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance, you’re preparing for an exciting world of career opportunities. With this degree, you’ll be well-prepared to enter fields such as banking, investments, real estate, insurance, corporate finance, and more. The possibilities are endless, and you’ll have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in your chosen path.
- Financial Analyst
- Investment Banker
- Accountant
- Insurance Agent
- Real Estate Broker
- Personal Financial Planner
- Financial Research Analyst
- Financial Services Manager
Major in Business Finance Degree Requirements
The degree program provides essential skills and knowledge in financial planning and analysis, investments, risk management and more. You will learn from experienced professors who have real-world experience in the field and will guide you every step of the way.
I. Liberal Arts Core Requirements - 34 hours
Listed in this catalog under Academics: Liberal Arts Display
Limit II. C. Quantitative Reasoning to MAT 235 Introductory Statistics
II. Common Professional Component for all B.B.A. majors - 39 hours
| ACC 231 | Principles of Accounting I | 3 |
| ACC 233 | Principles of Accounting II | 3 |
| BAN 225 | Quantitative Business Analysis | 3 |
| BUS 254 | Business Technology | 3 |
| BUS 351 | Business Communication (W) | 3 |
| BUS 354 | Legal Environment of Business | 3 |
| BUS 455 | Business Ethics (W) | 3 |
| BUS 459 | Business Capstone (W) | 3 |
| ECO 271 | Macroeconomics | 3 |
| ECO 272 | Microeconomics | 3 |
| FIN 385 | Managerial Finance | 3 |
| MGT 241 | Principles of Management | 3 |
| MKT 261 | Principles of Marketing | 3 |
III. Major Requirements - 24 hours
| ACC 330* | Intermediate Accounting I OR | 3 |
| ACC 431** | Principles of Taxation II | (3) |
| ACC 430 | Principles of Taxation I | 3 |
| FIN 383 | Risk Management | 3 |
| FIN 386 | Financial Markets and Institutions | 3 |
| FIN 486 | Investments I | 3 |
| FIN 488 | Investments II | 3 |
Choose six (6) hours from the following courses
| FIN 288** | Personal Finance** | (3) |
| Internship or upper-division Business electives | ||
| electives | (3-6) |
*Students planning to take the CFA Level 1 Exam or pursue a career in financial analysis or investments should choose ACC 330.
**Students planning to pursue a career in Financial planning should choose ACC 431 and FIN 288.
IV. Electives (including additional Bible) - 29 hours
Meet Our Faculty
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Business Finance Degree Program
Below are answers to questions prospective students often have when considering a major in Finance. If you have additional questions or need more information, please contact [email protected] and they will happily answer questions and provide additional details about our program.
What is the business finance degree program at FHU?
The Business Finance degree program at Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) is designed to prepare students for careers in banking, investments, financial planning, real estate, insurance, corporate finance, and other related fields. The program combines a strong business fundamentals foundation with specialized finance coursework.
Students in the Business Finance program at FHU take courses in accounting, economics, management, marketing, and more, as well as specialized coursework in finance, such as financial planning, investment analysis, and risk management. The program also emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that are essential for success in the field of finance.
One unique aspect of the Business Finance program at FHU is its focus on Christian values and ethics in business. Students learn about the ethical principles that guide decision-making in finance and are encouraged to integrate their faith into their work as financial professionals.
The Business Finance program at FHU also offers opportunities for experiential learning through internships, case studies, and other practical experiences. For example, students may participate in an investment club, where they manage a portfolio of stocks and other assets. This provides students with real-world experience in finance and helps prepare them for successful careers in the field.
The Business Finance degree program at FHU provides students with a strong foundation in business fundamentals, specialized knowledge in finance, and a focus on Christian values and practical experience in the field. Graduates are prepared for careers in various finance-related fields and can pursue advanced degrees in finance or related fields if desired.
What courses are required for the BBA in Finance program at FHU?
The BBA in Finance program at Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in finance principles and prepare them for successful careers. Here are some of the topics covered in the BBA in Finance program at FHU:
- Principles of Financial Accounting: This course introduces financial accounting principles and practices, including fundamental accounting relationships, completion of the accounting cycle, internal control, cash, receivables, and more.
- Principles of Macroeconomics: This course introduces macroeconomic principles, including national income accounting, economic growth, inflation, and monetary policy.
- Principles of Microeconomics: This course introduces microeconomic principles, including supply and demand, consumer behavior, production, and market structure.
- Managerial Finance: This course covers the principles of financial management, including financial statement analysis, time value of money, capital budgeting, and risk and return.
- Investments and Portfolio Management: This course covers investment principles, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and portfolio management strategies.
- Financial Institutions and Markets: This course covers the structure and function of financial institutions such as commercial banks, investment banks, and insurance companies, as well as financial markets such as stock and bond markets.
- International Finance: This course covers the principles of international finance, including foreign exchange rates, international trade, and multinational corporation operations.
- Financial Planning: This course covers the principles of personal financial planning, including budgeting, saving, investing, retirement planning, and estate planning.
The BBA in Finance program at FHU provides students with a comprehensive education in finance principles and prepares them for successful careers in various finance-related fields. Graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to make informed financial decisions and contribute to the success of businesses and organizations.
What is the job outlook for graduates with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance?
Graduates with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Finance are in high demand in various industries and can pursue a wide range of career paths. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for finance professionals is positive, with steady growth projected in the coming years.
Here are some of the career paths that graduates with a BBA in Finance can pursue:
- Financial Analyst: A financial analyst is responsible for analyzing financial data, creating economic models, and making recommendations to management about investment opportunities, mergers and acquisitions, and other financial decisions. The BLS projects a 5% growth in employment for financial analysts from 2019 to 2029.
- Financial Manager: Financial managers are responsible for overseeing the financial operations of a business or organization, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. The BLS projects a 15% growth in employment for financial managers from 2019 to 2029.
- Personal Financial Advisor: Personal financial advisors provide financial planning services to individuals and families, helping them to manage their finances, plan for retirement, and invest wisely. The BLS projects a 4% growth in employment for personal financial advisors from 2019 to 2029.
- Investment Banker: Investment bankers help companies and organizations raise capital by underwriting and selling securities. They also provide advice on mergers and acquisitions and other financial transactions. The BLS does not have specific data on employment growth for investment bankers, but the field is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
- Real Estate Analyst: A real estate analyst analyzes real estate markets and investments, advising investors, developers, and property owners. The BLS projects an 8% growth in employment for market research analysts and marketing specialists, including those specializing in real estate, from 2019 to 2029.
The job outlook for graduates with a BBA in Finance is positive, with steady growth projected in various finance-related fields. Finance students can look forward to rewarding careers that offer professional growth and advancement opportunities.
What are some of the skills finance majors gain at FHU?
Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) finance majors develop many skills essential for success in finance-related fields. Here are some of the skills that finance majors gain at FHU:
- Financial Analysis: Finance majors at FHU develop strong analytical skills, including the ability to analyze financial statements, evaluate investment opportunities, and assess risks.
- Communication: Communication is a critical skill for finance professionals, and finance majors at FHU learn to communicate verbally and in writing effectively. They develop skills in presenting financial information to clients, colleagues, and other stakeholders.
- Problem-Solving: Finance majors at FHU learn to approach problems systematically and creatively, using critical thinking skills to identify solutions to complex financial issues.
- Technology: Technology is an essential component of finance-related fields, and finance majors at FHU develop proficiency in using software and tools such as Excel, financial databases, and financial modeling software.
- Ethics: FHU strongly focuses on ethical principles and values, and finance majors learn about ethical considerations in finance-related fields. They develop skills in ethical decision-making and learn about the importance of responsible financial practices.
- Teamwork: Finance majors at FHU work collaboratively with others on projects and assignments, developing skills in teamwork, leadership, and collaboration.
- Time management: Finance majors at FHU learn to manage their time effectively, balancing coursework, internships, and other commitments. This skill is essential in finance-related fields, where deadlines and time-sensitive decisions are expected.
Finance majors at FHU develop a wide range of skills essential for success in finance-related fields. They gain strong analytical, communication, problem-solving, and technology skills, as well as a focus on ethics and teamwork.
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