DePaul University Finance Curriculum: A Comprehensive Overview

DePaul University’s Finance program, housed within the Driehaus College of Business, offers a robust curriculum designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for success in the dynamic world of finance. The program is structured to provide a solid foundation in core finance principles, while also allowing for specialization in specific areas of interest.

The curriculum begins with foundational coursework covering accounting, economics, statistics, and mathematics. These courses are crucial for building a strong understanding of the quantitative and analytical methods used in finance. Students then progress to core finance courses such as:

• Principles of Finance: Introduces fundamental concepts like time value of money, risk and return, and capital budgeting.
• Financial Markets and Institutions: Explores the structure and function of financial markets, including money markets, capital markets, and the role of financial institutions.
• Investments: Covers investment analysis, portfolio management, and security valuation techniques.
• Corporate Finance: Focuses on financial decision-making within corporations, including capital structure, dividend policy, and mergers and acquisitions.

Beyond these core courses, DePaul offers a wide array of elective courses allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific career goals. Specializations are not formally declared, but students can effectively specialize through their elective choices. Popular areas of focus include:

• Investment Management: Deep dives into portfolio management strategies, derivatives, and alternative investments. Courses often incorporate Bloomberg terminals and portfolio simulation software.
• Corporate Financial Management: Explores advanced topics in corporate finance, such as valuation, financial restructuring, and risk management.
• Real Estate Finance: Focuses on the financial aspects of real estate development, investment, and management.
• Financial Planning: Provides the knowledge and skills necessary to advise individuals and families on their financial goals.

A significant strength of DePaul’s Finance program is its emphasis on experiential learning. Students have opportunities to participate in internships, case competitions, and student-managed investment funds. The Finance Conference and other networking events provide valuable opportunities to connect with industry professionals. Many courses also incorporate real-world case studies and simulations to enhance practical skills.

The faculty at DePaul are a mix of experienced academics and industry practitioners, ensuring students receive both a rigorous theoretical foundation and practical insights. Faculty members are actively engaged in research, contributing to the field of finance and bringing cutting-edge knowledge to the classroom.

Overall, DePaul University’s Finance curriculum provides a comprehensive and practical education that prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in the financial services industry, including investment banking, asset management, corporate finance, and financial planning. The program’s emphasis on experiential learning, coupled with its strong faculty and diverse course offerings, makes it a valuable choice for aspiring finance professionals.