Cost & earnings at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
The Bachelor’s in Finance and Financial Management Services at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota prepares students for careers in corporate finance, financial planning, investment analysis and financial services by combining core business fundamentals with specialised finance courses and practical skills. It suits students who want a balance of quantitative training, ethical decision-making and applied experience through case studies, internships and capstone projects.
The programme builds a foundation in accounting, economics and business law before progressing to finance-specific topics. Early courses cover principles of financial accounting, micro- and macroeconomics, business statistics and spreadsheet modelling. Core finance subjects include corporate finance, investments, financial institutions and markets, and risk management.
Specialist classes emphasise applied financial planning and services, such as personal financial planning, retirement and estate planning, insurance, and taxation issues relevant to financial advisers. Students also study quantitative skills—financial modelling, advanced Excel, and introductory programming for finance—and courses in ethics and regulation that reflect the compliance environment of the financial services industry.
The curriculum typically includes experiential learning components: case studies, group projects, simulations, and an internship or practicum with a local bank, investment firm or financial planning office. A capstone or senior seminar requires students to integrate technical analysis, client-focused communication and professional judgement in a real-world or simulated engagement.
The programme follows a four-year bachelor’s structure with a mix of general education requirements, business core courses and finance electives. Students progress from introductory to advanced coursework and are encouraged to complete an internship before their final year. Opportunities for independent study or honors projects may be available for qualified students.
Applicants are expected to have a high school diploma or equivalent with solid performance in mathematics. Typical academic preparation includes algebra, geometry, and preferably precalculus or calculus, plus coursework in English and social studies. Colleges often consider overall academic record, a personal statement, and extracurricular involvement.
Transfer applicants should have completed introductory college-level courses in mathematics and general education; business or accounting courses will strengthen an application. International applicants need to demonstrate English language proficiency through approved tests or prior study in English. Some programmes may require or recommend an interview or submission of a résumé for placement into internships.
Graduates enter a range of roles across financial services and corporate functions. Common entry-level positions include financial analyst, credit analyst, investment operations specialist, financial planner or advisor, insurance underwriter and bank relationship manager. With experience and professional credentials, graduates may move into portfolio management, corporate treasury, risk management, wealth management and senior financial leadership roles.
The degree also provides a pathway to professional certifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA), often pursued alongside work. Skills gained—financial analysis, quantitative modelling, client communication and regulatory awareness—are also applicable to entrepreneurship, consulting and public sector finance roles.
Saint Mary s University of Minnesota combines a strong liberal arts foundation with career-focused business education. The programme emphasises small class sizes and faculty who bring both academic and industry experience, enabling personalised mentorship and applied learning.
The university maintains relationships with regional financial institutions and businesses, providing internship and networking opportunities in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. Students benefit from business club activities, career services support for internship and job placement, and access to campus resources such as computing labs and finance software. The institution s focus on ethical leadership and community engagement prepares graduates to navigate the technical and interpersonal demands of finance professions.
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