Marquette Finance Major: A Deep Dive

A finance major at Marquette University offers a rigorous and comprehensive education designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the dynamic world of financial markets and institutions. Housed within the Applied Investment Management (AIM) program and Business Administration program in the College of Business Administration, the finance curriculum is built upon a foundation of fundamental principles and continually updated to reflect the latest industry trends.

The core coursework covers a broad spectrum of topics, including financial accounting, corporate finance, investments, financial modeling, and risk management. Students gain a strong understanding of financial statement analysis, capital budgeting, valuation techniques, portfolio management, and derivative securities. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical concepts and practical application, allowing students to translate classroom learning into real-world scenarios.

Marquette’s finance program distinguishes itself through its experiential learning opportunities. The AIM program, a nationally recognized student-managed investment fund, allows select students to manage a portion of the university’s endowment. This hands-on experience provides invaluable insights into the investment decision-making process, portfolio construction, and performance evaluation. Furthermore, students have access to state-of-the-art financial technology, including Bloomberg terminals, which allow them to analyze market data, track financial news, and conduct sophisticated research.

Beyond the AIM program, numerous internships and co-op opportunities are available with leading financial institutions in Milwaukee and across the country. These experiences provide students with practical skills, professional networking opportunities, and a competitive edge in the job market. Marquette’s Career Services Center provides extensive support in resume writing, interview preparation, and job search strategies, helping students launch successful careers in finance.

Marquette finance graduates are well-prepared for a variety of career paths, including investment banking, asset management, financial analysis, corporate finance, private equity, and consulting. They are highly sought after by employers due to their strong analytical skills, ethical grounding, and practical experience. The program instills a commitment to ethical conduct and social responsibility, reflecting Marquette’s Jesuit values. Courses often incorporate discussions on ethical dilemmas in the financial industry and encourage students to consider the broader impact of their decisions.

The faculty within the finance department are a blend of experienced academics and industry professionals, bringing both theoretical knowledge and practical insights to the classroom. They are committed to providing personalized attention to students and fostering a supportive learning environment. Small class sizes allow for meaningful interaction between students and faculty, promoting a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

In conclusion, a finance major at Marquette University offers a well-rounded education that combines rigorous academic training with practical experience. The program’s emphasis on experiential learning, ethical considerations, and career development prepares graduates for successful and fulfilling careers in the finance industry. By fostering a strong foundation in financial principles and providing opportunities to apply those principles in real-world settings, Marquette University empowers its finance graduates to become leaders in the global financial community.