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
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.
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.
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