Salisbury University

What you'll study

The programme blends core business fundamentals with specialised finance coursework and applied projects. Early study focuses on foundational subjects such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics and business statistics, followed by intermediate courses in corporate finance and financial markets.

• Core finance modules: corporate finance, investments, portfolio management, financial institutions and markets.
• Financial management services topics: personal financial planning, retirement and estate planning, insurance and risk management, tax planning and wealth management principles.
• Analytical and technical skills: financial modelling, spreadsheet-based analysis, quantitative methods, and introductory econometrics.
• Supporting business modules: business law, ethics, organisational behaviour, marketing and operations management to provide broad business context.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a senior-level integrative capstone, applied projects or practicum with local employers, and opportunities for internships to build workplace experience.

Students can usually choose electives to explore specialised areas such as real estate finance, international finance, derivatives, or entrepreneurial finance. Coursework emphasises both conceptual understanding and applied skills needed for industry certifications and employer expectations.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised high school diploma or equivalent. Typical academic preparation includes strong performance in mathematics (algebra and precalculus) and coursework in English and social sciences. Admissions decisions consider high school GPA and the strength of the secondary school record; standardised tests may be optional or considered alongside other materials depending on the applicant's profile.

International applicants must present equivalent secondary school qualifications and demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or institutional pathways where applicable. Transfer students from other colleges will need official transcripts and may receive credit for relevant prior coursework; specific credit transfer policies are provided by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across the finance sector. Common entry-level positions include financial analyst, credit analyst, investment operations associate, compliance or risk-assessment roles, and positions in banking or corporate finance. For students who pursue the financial planning pathway, typical roles include financial planner, client services associate or paraplanner.

Alumni also move into wealth management, insurance and risk management, real estate finance, and government or nonprofit finance roles. The degree provides a foundation for professional certifications (for example, CFP, CFA, or state insurance licences) and for further study such as an MBA or specialised master’s degrees.

Why study at Salisbury University

Salisbury University offers a focused business education with opportunities for close faculty interaction and experiential learning through internships, practicum projects and community partnerships on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Small to medium-sized class settings mean personalised guidance on projects and career planning, while the university’s career services and employer connections support internship placement and graduate recruitment.

The programme emphasises applied skills—financial analysis, modelling and ethical decision-making—so graduates leave with practical competencies that local and regional employers value. Being part of a broader business school environment allows students to complement finance studies with electives in entrepreneurship, accounting or management to tailor their degree to specific career goals.