Michigan State University

What you'll study

This programme builds core knowledge in finance, accounting and economics, emphasising analytical skills, financial decision-making and ethical practice. Students take a sequence of required courses covering principles of finance, managerial finance, investments, financial institutions, and risk management, supported by foundational coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics, statistics and data analysis.

• Core finance modules: Corporate Finance, Investments, Financial Institutions and Markets, Derivatives and Risk Management, Portfolio Theory.
• Supporting business and quantitative modules: Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Business Statistics, Applied Econometrics, Quantitative Methods for Finance.
• Professional and applied modules: Personal Financial Planning, Ethics in Finance, Financial Statement Analysis, Valuation, Treasury Management.
• Experiential learning: Case studies, team-based projects, investment simulation labs and opportunities to analyse live market data through finance lab facilities or student investment funds.
• Electives and concentrations: Students can tailor study with electives in real estate finance, international finance, behavioural finance, fintech and financial modelling.
• Capstone and practicum options: Many students complete a capstone course, independent research project or internship practicum that integrates theory and practice.

Structure

The degree follows a combination of general education requirements, business foundation courses and upper-level finance coursework. Typically students complete foundational business classes in the early years and progress to specialized finance courses and electives in the later years. Structured advising helps plan internships, study abroad and co-curricular activities to complement academic learning.

Entry requirements

Admission is to Michigan State University and then to the Broad College of Business or the relevant departmental programme; applicants need a competitive secondary school record with strong preparation in mathematics. Typical entry expectations include coursework in algebra and precalculus or calculus, and good performance in quantitative subjects.

• US applicants: Strong high school academic performance with recommended coursework in mathematics and economics; standardised testing policies vary by cycle and should be checked with the university.
• International applicants: A recognised secondary school qualification (for example, A-levels, IB diploma or equivalent) with solid grades in mathematics; proof of English proficiency where required.
• Prerequisites: Introductory economics and calculus/statistics are recommended before taking upper-level finance courses; transfer and advanced placement credit may be considered for eligible students.
• Other: Relevant extracurricular experience, demonstrated interest in finance and professional readiness can strengthen an application; academic advising supports qualification for the major after matriculation.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of finance roles in industry, government and not-for-profit sectors. Common career destinations include:

• Corporate finance and financial planning roles within companies and nonprofits
• Investment management, brokerage and asset management
• Commercial and investment banking, lending and credit analysis
• Risk management, treasury and financial operations
• Financial consulting, advisory services and transaction support
• Fintech, data analytics and roles combining finance with information systems

Many graduates pursue professional credentials such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Certified Financial Planner (CFP), or continue to graduate study in finance, business administration or law. Internships and employer relationships facilitated by the college often lead directly to entry-level employment.

Why study at Michigan State University

Michigan State's Broad College of Business offers a finance programme that emphasises applied learning, industry engagement and professional development. Students benefit from experiential resources such as finance labs and student-managed investment groups, career services with employer connections across the region and nationally, and active student organisations focused on finance and investing.

• Practical focus: Emphasis on real-world projects, internships and simulations to develop job-ready skills.
• Support services: Dedicated career advising, practicum placement assistance and mentoring through alumni networks.
• Choice and flexibility: Opportunities to specialise with electives, study abroad and interdisciplinary courses that combine finance with technology or international business.

Together these elements prepare students for diverse finance careers and further study while benefiting from Michigan State University's large alumni base and corporate partnerships.