Marywood University

What you'll study

The programme combines core business foundations with specialised finance coursework and experiential learning. You will study accounting, micro- and macro-economics, statistics and business law in the early years, then move into finance-specific subjects such as corporate finance, investments and portfolio management, financial markets and institutions, risk management, and personal financial planning.

Typical modules include:

• Principles of Finance: time value of money, capital budgeting, working capital management.
• Financial Accounting and Managerial Accounting: interpreting financial statements and using accounting information for managerial decision-making.
• Intermediate Finance: valuation of securities, cost of capital and capital structure.
• Investments and Portfolio Theory: asset pricing models, portfolio construction and performance evaluation.
• Financial Modelling and Quantitative Methods: spreadsheet modelling, forecasting and use of data in financial decision-making.
• Risk Management and Insurance: identification and management of financial risks, hedging and insurance principles.
• Business Ethics and Financial Regulation: ethical frameworks for finance professionals and overview of regulatory environment.
• Capstone/Integrative Experience: applied project, case study or internship that integrates technical skills and professional competencies.

Students are encouraged to take electives that build applied skills such as taxation, real estate finance, financial planning, entrepreneurship and information systems. The curriculum emphasises communication, teamwork and ethical leadership alongside quantitative competence.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised high-school diploma or equivalent with a strong academic record. Successful candidates typically present evidence of competence in mathematics (for example algebra, precalculus or statistics) and may be asked for transcripts, a personal statement and one or more academic or character references.

Marywood considers applicants holistically; relevant extracurricular activities, work experience, or demonstrated interest in business and finance strengthen an application. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements through recognised tests or other approved evidence. Specific GPA thresholds, test requirements and documentation vary and should be confirmed with the university admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a broad range of entry-level and developmental roles across the financial services sector. Common career pathways include:

• Financial analyst roles in corporations, government agencies or consulting firms.
• Commercial or retail banking positions, credit analysis and loan officers.
• Wealth management and financial advisory roles, including preparation for professional certifications.
• Investment-related positions such as research analyst, trading support or operations.
• Insurance underwriting, risk analysis and corporate treasury roles.
• Opportunities in accounting firms, compliance, financial planning and real estate finance.

Many graduates also pursue graduate study such as an MBA or specialised master’s degrees, or professional credentials (for example CFA, CFP or FRM) to advance their careers.

Why study at Marywood University

Marywood offers a personalised learning environment with small class sizes and close access to faculty who combine academic expertise with practical experience. The university’s student-focused approach emphasises ethical leadership and service, preparing finance graduates to make responsible decisions in diverse organisational settings.

Students benefit from experiential learning opportunities including internships with regional employers, applied projects, career services support and student organisations focused on finance and business. The campus community provides a supportive setting for developing both technical skills and professional behaviours that employers seek.