Financial Economics BA

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Rochester

Program Overview

A specialized major combining economic theory with financial principles and quantitative analysis. Designed for students pursuing careers in finance, banking, or financial research.

Curriculum Structure
Years 1–2: Core Foundations

  • Micro and macroeconomics

  • Calculus and probability

  • Introduction to finance and accounting

Years 3–4: Finance and Economics Integration

  • Corporate finance and investments

  • Financial econometrics and markets

  • Risk management and portfolio theory

  • Senior thesis or capstone

Focus Areas

  • Financial markets and institutions

  • Quantitative finance and risk analysis

  • Economic theory applied to finance

Learning Outcomes

  • Analyze and model financial data and markets

  • Understand economic drivers of finance

  • Prepare for careers in investment banking, asset management, or graduate finance programs

Accreditation & Reputation
Offered through Rochester’s Department of Economics with collaboration from the Simon Business School

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This program merges financial theory with economic principles, focusing on practical skills for finance careers.

Experiential learning includes:

  • Intensive training on Bloomberg Terminals and financial modeling software.

  • Group projects simulating portfolio management and risk analysis.

  • Internship opportunities through Rochester’s Career Center, especially in banking and investment firms.

  • Research assistantships with faculty on asset pricing and corporate finance.

  • Seminars and workshops hosted by the Simon Business School.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The BA in Financial Economics at the University of Rochester blends core economic theory with applied finance, giving students a competitive edge for roles in investment banking, consulting, financial analysis, and portfolio management. Typical job titles include financial analyst, investment associate, credit risk analyst, and economic consultant. Rochester ensures strong outcomes through:

  • The Gwen M. Greene Center for Career Education and Connections provides dedicated finance career pathways, internship placement, and direct access to employers through alumni and recruiting events.

  • Over 91% of Rochester grads are employed or in graduate school within six months, with Financial Economics students often earning starting salaries between $65,000–$85,000.

  • Strong connections to firms like Morgan Stanley, Deloitte, and Bloomberg, plus proximity to New York City, provide robust internship pipelines.

  • Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), the program carries long-term academic and professional value.

  • The curriculum, taught by both economics and Simon Business School faculty, offers rigorous training in corporate finance, financial markets, and econometrics.

Further Academic Progression:
Many graduates pursue MBAs, Master’s in Finance, or PhDs in Economics or Public Policy—often at top-ranked institutions.

Program Key Stats

$54410 (Annual cost)
$ 70



36 %

Eligibility Criteria

ABB - AAA
3.0 - 3.5
36 - 40
85 - 90

1400 - 1540
31 - 34
7.5
107

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Investment Banking Analyst – Analyze financial statements and market trends for M&A or capital raising
  • Asset Manager – Construct and manage investment portfolios using quantitative finance tools
  • Financial Consultant – Guide clients through complex financial planning and investment decisions
  • Risk Analyst – Assess and mitigate financial risks in banking or financial institutions
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