City University of New York

What you'll study

This programme builds a foundation in financial theory, quantitative methods and business practices. Core study areas typically include financial accounting, corporate finance, investments and portfolio management, financial markets and institutions, and risk management. Students take mathematics and statistics courses—often calculus and econometrics—to support data-driven decision making, alongside business law, ethics and communication modules.

Programme structure usually combines a CUNY general-education core with major-specific required courses and electives. Typical modules and topics you can expect include:

• Financial Accounting and Reporting – principles of accounting and preparation/analysis of financial statements.
• Corporate Finance – capital budgeting, capital structure, cost of capital and valuation techniques.
• Investments – asset pricing, portfolio theory, equity and fixed-income analysis.
• Quantitative Methods – calculus, probability, statistics and econometrics applied to finance.
• Financial Markets & Institutions – structure and regulation of markets, role of banks and intermediaries.
• Derivatives and Risk Management – options, futures, hedging strategies and enterprise risk concepts.
• Financial Modelling and Data Analysis – spreadsheet and programming tools for modelling, valuation and empirical analysis.
• Capstone or Internship – applied project or placement that integrates technical skills with real-world finance problems.

Entry requirements

Admission to the programme normally requires a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of standard secondary-school coursework. Typical expectations include competency in mathematics (algebra and precalculus or calculus) and strong performance in English. Where relevant, applicants should demonstrate readiness for college-level quantitative work.

Applicants from other universities can apply for transfer credit; accredited college-level mathematics, economics and business courses may be evaluated for exemption from certain requirements. Additional supporting materials such as transcripts, a personal statement and references may be required by the admitting college within the CUNY system.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles across the finance industry and related business sectors. Common entry-level positions include financial analyst, investment analyst, credit analyst, treasury analyst, risk-assistant, and roles in corporate finance or consulting. The degree also provides a strong foundation for careers in fintech, asset management, brokerage, and financial regulation.

Many students progress to professional certifications (for example, CFA or FRM) or pursue postgraduate study such as a master’s in finance, business administration or economics to deepen specialisation. The emphasis on quantitative skills and practical experience helps graduates adapt to data-driven roles and lateral moves between finance, technology and analytics.

Why study at City University of New York

Studying finance within the CUNY system gives access to a large, diverse urban university network and strong links with New York City’s financial and business communities. Many CUNY campuses have established relationships with local employers and alumni in finance, offering internship pipelines and industry guest speakers.

CUNY programmes typically combine applied learning with affordability and flexibility, allowing students to gain practical experience through internships, career services and project-based modules while benefiting from teaching staff with practitioner experience. The urban setting also provides unparalleled opportunities for networking, part-time employment and exposure to financial markets in practice.