University of Pittsburgh, BS, Finance

The finance major provides students with a thorough understanding of the theoretical financial principles and the practical implementation of these principles in business. Students learn how financial markets operate and how to make effective investment and financial decisions for firms and individuals. The major is designed to develop students' analytical skills and problem-solving abilities. Financial markets are the major conduits through which investments are channeled in the global marketplace, and understanding these markets and how to make investment decisions are crucial for success in business. Finance majors at Pitt Business have an excellent opportunity to gain experience in the school’s Financial Analysis Laboratory. The 3,000-square-foot facility, which resembles the trading floor of a investment bank or financial firm, is equipped with 58 computer stations, a stock ticker, and tote display boards that give students hands-on training with the equipment and technology used in the capital markets industry. Through the facility, students gain experience in interacting with real-time financial information flows and in using the industry’s analytic tools and software.