IU Finance Degree Requirements

Earning a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business is a rigorous process designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the financial world. The curriculum combines foundational business principles with specialized finance coursework, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the field.

Core Business Courses

Before diving into finance-specific subjects, students must complete a set of core business courses. These courses provide a fundamental understanding of business concepts and include topics like:

• Financial Accounting: Introduces the principles of financial reporting and analysis.
• Managerial Accounting: Focuses on using accounting information for internal decision-making.
• Microeconomics and Macroeconomics: Explores the principles of supply and demand, market structures, and macroeconomic policies.
• Business Law: Covers legal principles relevant to business operations.
• Information Technology for Business: Develops skills in using technology for business problem-solving.
• Statistics: Provides a foundation in statistical analysis and data interpretation.
• Operations Management: Examines the efficient management of production and service processes.
• Marketing: Introduces the principles of marketing strategy and consumer behavior.

Finance Major Requirements

The finance major itself consists of a set of required courses that build upon the foundational business knowledge. These courses delve into the core principles of finance and cover a wide range of topics, including:

• Corporate Finance: Focuses on financial decision-making within corporations, including capital budgeting, financing, and dividend policy.
• Investments: Explores the principles of investment analysis, portfolio management, and asset valuation.
• Financial Institutions: Examines the role and functions of various financial institutions, such as banks, insurance companies, and investment firms.
• Financial Modeling: Develops skills in creating and using financial models for forecasting and analysis.
• International Finance: Covers the challenges and opportunities of managing finances in a global environment.

Electives and Specializations

In addition to the required courses, finance majors typically have the opportunity to choose elective courses to tailor their education to their specific interests. These electives can be within the finance department or from other areas of the Kelley School of Business. Some popular elective areas include:

• Real Estate: Focuses on the financial aspects of real estate investment and development.
• Risk Management: Explores the principles and techniques of managing financial risk.
• Investment Banking: Provides an overview of the investment banking industry and its activities.
• FinTech: Examines the intersection of finance and technology.

Beyond the Classroom

Beyond coursework, Indiana University encourages finance students to gain practical experience through internships, case competitions, and student organizations. These activities provide valuable opportunities to apply their knowledge and network with industry professionals. The Kelley School of Business also offers career services to assist students with resume building, interviewing skills, and job placement.

Successfully completing the IU Finance degree requirements requires dedication, hard work, and a genuine interest in the field. However, the rewards are significant, as graduates are well-prepared for a wide range of careers in finance, including investment banking, corporate finance, portfolio management, and financial analysis.