Program Overview
The finance major at the University of Kansas helps students understand how organizations manage money, evaluate opportunities, and navigate risk. The program combines core financial theory with applied analytical skills, preparing students to support decision‑making in businesses, nonprofits, and public institutions.
Students pursuing a degree in finance learn how financial decisions influence organizational performance, capital markets, and long‑term strategy. Through coursework and hands‑on learning, they build experience with financial modeling, valuation, and portfolio analysis while strengthening their understanding of how businesses allocate resources.
The Bachelor of Science in Business with a major in finance provides a structured progression from foundational business coursework to advanced financial topics. As students advance through the program, they gain a deeper understanding of corporate finance, investment strategy, financial institutions, and global markets while developing the analytical and professional competencies needed for careers in the financial sector.
Coursework within the bachelor’s degree in finance builds progressively, beginning with core business and analytical foundations before advancing into upper-level finance topics. Students develop skills in evaluating financial statements, analyzing capital investments, assessing market risk, and applying valuation techniques to real business scenarios.
The finance major emphasizes ethical reasoning, professional communication, and teamwork, helping students approach financial decisions with clarity and responsibility.
Learn more about KU
Undergraduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Finance, BSBSchool of Business
The Bachelor’s in Finance is part of the School of Business, which advances business knowledge and prepares students to be leaders in business and society.Bachelor’s in Finance Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the degree in finance will:
- Analyze financial data to support strategic decision-making within organizations.
- Evaluate investment opportunities using quantitative and qualitative financial methods.
- Apply principles of risk management and portfolio diversification.
- Interpret and communicate financial information effectively to diverse stakeholders.
- Incorporate ethical, legal, and regulatory considerations into financial decisions.
What Careers Are Possible with a Bachelor’s in Finance?
A degree in finance offers a wide range of career possibilities across industries such as corporate finance, banking, consulting, and investment services. According to Lightcast data, professionals working in finance-related roles earn a median salary of $81,000 annually, with strong projected demand across financial services, corporate organizations, and public institutions.
Common finance major careers require strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to evaluate financial risk and opportunity. Graduates are prepared to pursue roles that support investment decision-making, financial planning, and organizational strategy.
Graduates often secure roles such as:
- Financial Analyst
- Investment Banker
- Corporate Finance Manager
- Risk Management Specialist
- Wealth Management Advisor
These roles reflect a wide range of financial jobs, with opportunities for advancement as professionals gain experience and credentials. Long-term earning potential remains strong, with competitive finance degree salary outcomes across many sectors.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers a variety of financial aid opportunities to make earning your degree in Finance more affordable. Learn more about tuition and funding options at KU Financial Aid.Admission Requirements
Admission to the finance major at KU requires meeting general university freshman and transfer admission standards. Additionally:
Freshman
- Test-optional: High school GPA of 3.4+
- With test scores (Business Index Pathway): Minimum index score of 5.55, calculated using a student’s high school GPA (on a 4.0 scale) and ACT composite or SAT math and evidence-based reading and writing scores.
- Example: a 27 ACT with 3.2 GPA would be 27/10 + 3.2 = 5.9
Transfer
- Sophomore standing (30 credit hours)
- Completion of three pre-admission foundation courses (must be taken for a grade):
- ACCT 200 Financial Accounting 1
- BSAN 202 Statistics
- ECON 142 Principles of Microeconomics
- Cumulative GPA of 2.5+, including the following:
- Overall GPA (all transfer coursework)
- Overall Professional GPA (all transfer business coursework, including ECON)
For detailed admission requirements, please visit these respective pages:
Student Life and Learning Experience
Beyond the classroom, students in the finance major can participate in finance-focused student organizations, case competitions, and professional development events.
Internships and experiential learning opportunities help students connect classroom knowledge to business challenges, strengthening career readiness and helping students explore specific areas of interest within finance.
Bachelor’s in Finance Sample Courses
Students pursuing a finance major may take courses such as:
- Finance
- Intermediate Accounting for Finance
- Investment Theory and Applications
- Corporate Finance
- Introduction to Information & Management Productivity Systems
For a full list of degree requirements, visit the KU Catalog.
Bachelor’s in Finance Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in four years.