Bachelor of Arts [B.A] [Finance] From Michigan State University

Students may participate in directing the Student Investment Fund and may apply to join the Financial Markets Institute. U.S. News & World Report ranks MSU as having the #29 undergraduate program in finance.

Finance encompasses business financial administration, management of financial institutions, investments, financial markets, and the management of risk. Business financial administration includes obtaining external funds in the money and capital markets, selecting and evaluating investment projects, coordinating the flow of funds from operations, and determining the benefits to be returned to suppliers of capital. An understanding of financial concepts and practices along with knowledge of the instruments and participants in the financial markets is vital to sound financial decision making.

The study of financial institutions involves analyzing the management of commercial banks, savings and loan associations, credit unions, insurance companies, and pension funds. The role of these institutions in the economy is examined. Financial policies and strategies in an increasingly competitive institutional marketplace are emphasized.

The field of investments involves the analysis and selection of securities with special emphasis on stocks and bonds. The role of these instruments in portfolios of individuals and financial institutions is explored.

Financial markets represent the environment within which corporations, financial institutions, and investors create financial assets and liabilities. The nature of the various financial instruments is examined, as well as market innovations and structural changes.

The finance major includes a course in intermediate accounting in addition to courses in finance. The program provides a valuable foundation for initial employment and continued career development in business administration. Employment opportunities exist with industrial firms, public utilities, commercial banks, insurance companies, brokerage firms, credit unions, savings and loan associations, and agencies of local, state, and federal government.