Finance at Oregon State University

Oregon State University (OSU) offers a comprehensive finance education through its College of Business. The program aims to equip students with the analytical skills, technical knowledge, and ethical understanding necessary to succeed in a dynamic financial world. The undergraduate finance major provides a robust foundation for careers in areas such as investment banking, portfolio management, corporate finance, and financial planning.

Undergraduate Finance Program

The Bachelor of Science in Finance degree at OSU is structured to provide both a broad business education and specialized training in finance. Students complete core business courses covering accounting, economics, marketing, and management before delving into specialized finance topics. These include financial statement analysis, investments, corporate finance, and risk management.

A key element of the undergraduate curriculum is the emphasis on practical application. Students have opportunities to participate in experiential learning through internships, case competitions, and projects that simulate real-world financial scenarios. The student-managed investment fund offers a particularly valuable experience, allowing students to manage a portion of the university’s endowment and gain hands-on investment experience.

Faculty and Research

OSU’s finance faculty are composed of experienced professionals and active researchers. They bring a wealth of industry knowledge and academic rigor to the classroom. Their research interests span a wide range of finance topics, including behavioral finance, asset pricing, corporate governance, and sustainable finance. Students benefit from learning from faculty who are at the forefront of financial research.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of OSU’s finance program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the financial services industry and beyond. Common career paths include financial analyst, investment banker, portfolio manager, credit analyst, and financial planner. OSU’s career services center provides resources and support to help students secure internships and full-time positions. Recruiters from regional and national firms actively seek out OSU finance graduates.

Beyond the Classroom

OSU offers various extracurricular activities that enhance the finance education experience. Student organizations such as the Finance Club provide opportunities for networking, professional development, and social interaction. Workshops, guest speaker events, and industry site visits further expose students to the practical aspects of finance.

Master’s Level Studies

While the undergraduate program is the primary focus, students looking to advance their education can pursue graduate studies in related areas, such as business administration (MBA) with a finance concentration. This allows for a more specialized and advanced understanding of financial principles and practices, leading to higher-level career opportunities.