Qassim University

What you'll study

The programme combines core finance theory with applied quantitative skills, accounting fundamentals and exposure to Saudi and international financial systems. It is typically structured over four academic years and includes classroom study, casework, computer‑based financial modelling and an industry internship.

• Year 1 – Foundations: Principles of Finance, Principles of Accounting, Introduction to Economics (micro and macro), Business Mathematics and Statistics, Business Law, Academic English for Business.
• Year 2 – Core finance and quantitative skills: Financial Reporting and Analysis, Corporate Finance I, Quantitative Methods for Finance, Managerial Accounting, Principles of Banking, Computer Applications in Finance (spreadsheets and databases).
• Year 3 – Applied and specialised topics: Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management, Financial Markets and Institutions, Corporate Finance II, Risk Management, Islamic Finance and Banking, International Finance.
• Year 4 – Integration and practice: Advanced Topics in Finance (electives such as Financial Modelling or Derivatives), Financial Regulation and Compliance, Taxation and Auditing basics, a supervised Internship/Work Placement, and a Final Year Project or Research Dissertation.

Throughout the programme students work with real data using spreadsheets and finance software, complete case studies reflecting local and regional markets, and have opportunities for guest lectures and company visits.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school certificate (such as the Saudi General Secondary Certificate) or equivalent. Competitive applicants typically demonstrate strong achievement in mathematics and good overall grades. Additional requirements commonly include:

• Successful performance in the university entrance examination or central admissions test where applicable.
• Sufficient English language ability for programmes taught or assessed in English; evidence may be required if the applicant’s prior education was not in English.
• Meeting any health or character clearance procedures required by the university.

Specific selection criteria (minimum scores, quota rules, or interview processes) are determined by Qassim University and may vary by intake; prospective students should consult the university admissions office for precise eligibility rules.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across the public and private sectors. Typical career destinations include:

• Commercial and investment banking (credit analysis, relationship management, treasury)
• Corporate finance and financial planning within firms (financial analyst, corporate treasurer)
• Investment and asset management (portfolio analyst, research analyst)
• Risk management, compliance and internal audit roles
• Financial consultancy and advisory services
• Careers in Islamic finance institutions and takaful companies
• Positions in government ministries, regulatory agencies and public sector enterprises

Many graduates continue to professional qualifications (for example in accounting, Chartered Financial Analyst or risk certifications) or pursue postgraduate study to specialise further.

Why study at Qassim University

Qassim University is a major public university in Saudi Arabia with regionally focused academic provision and links to local industry. The Finance programme benefits from faculty experienced in banking, corporate finance and Islamic finance, and from partnerships that enable internships and workplace exposure in the Qassim region.

The university emphasises applied learning: students gain hands‑on experience with financial software, case projects relevant to Saudi markets and opportunities to engage with practitioners through seminars and placements. The programme is delivered within the university’s College of Business and Economics and is aligned with the regulatory and business environment of the Kingdom, preparing graduates for careers locally and across the region.