Eastern Washington University

What you'll study

The programme blends foundational business subjects, finance-specific coursework and applied learning experiences. You will take classes in financial accounting, managerial accounting, microeconomics and macroeconomics, business statistics and quantitative methods, and introductory finance before moving into upper-division topics.

• Core finance topics: corporate finance, investments, portfolio management, financial markets and institutions, and financial statement analysis.
• Financial management services topics: personal financial planning, insurance and risk management, retirement and estate planning, and tax considerations for individuals and small businesses.
• Supporting subjects: business law, ethics, advanced Excel and financial modelling, and econometrics or applied statistics.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a senior capstone or practicum that integrates analysis and presentation of real-world finance problems, and opportunities for internships with regional employers and financial institutions.

Students may choose electives to focus on areas such as investment analysis, commercial banking, or financial planning, and will develop skills in valuation, portfolio construction, financial reporting interpretation, and client communication.

Entry requirements

Admission is at the undergraduate level. Typical applicants are expected to have a high school diploma or equivalent with a record of college-preparatory coursework. Strong preparation in mathematics (algebra and precalculus) and English is recommended, and prior coursework in economics or accounting is advantageous.

• First-year applicants: completed secondary education with transcripts demonstrating steady academic performance; a portfolio of grades in quantitative subjects will strengthen an application.
• Transfer applicants: submission of college transcripts showing successful completion of general education and any introductory business or accounting courses; transferable credits are evaluated individually.
• International applicants: an equivalent secondary credential and proof of English proficiency when English is not the native language.

Students admitted to the university enter the College of Business where some higher-level major courses may require completion of prerequisite business foundation courses and a minimum standing within the major.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme typically enter a broad range of roles across the financial services sector and related industries. The combination of technical finance knowledge and practical client-focused skills prepares students for:

• financial analyst, corporate finance or treasury roles within companies
• commercial or retail banking positions and credit analysis
• investment operations, research or client services at brokerage and asset management firms
• financial planner, wealth advisor or insurance specialist working with individuals and families
• risk management and compliance roles within financial institutions
• opportunities in government finance, nonprofit financial management, and small-business financial advising

Graduates also commonly pursue professional certifications (for example chartered or certified planning and analyst credentials) or continue to postgraduate study such as an MBA or specialised master’s in finance.

Why study at Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University offers a campus environment where students benefit from smaller class sizes and direct access to faculty with academic and industry experience. The university’s proximity to the Spokane regional business community supports internship and networking opportunities with banks, financial firms and local employers.

• Applied learning focus with practicum and internship pathways to build workplace-ready skills.
• Student organisations and clubs related to finance and investment that provide leadership and practical project experience.
• Support services including career advising, resume workshops and employer engagement to help transition from study to employment.
• Flexible elective options to tailor the degree toward financial planning, investment analysis or commercial finance depending on career goals.

Together these elements make the programme a practical choice for students seeking a solid foundation in finance combined with hands-on learning and regional industry connections.