Kogod School of Business Finance Programs

Kogod Finance: Building Financial Expertise

American University’s Kogod School of Business offers a robust suite of finance programs designed to equip students with the analytical, technical, and ethical foundation needed to thrive in the dynamic world of finance. From undergraduate degrees to specialized master’s programs, Kogod’s curriculum emphasizes practical application and real-world experience.

Undergraduate Finance

The Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) with a specialization in Finance provides students with a broad understanding of financial principles. Core coursework covers corporate finance, investments, financial institutions, and international finance. Students learn to analyze financial statements, manage risk, value assets, and make informed investment decisions. The curriculum also incorporates quantitative methods and data analysis to enhance problem-solving capabilities.

Master’s Level Finance

Kogod offers several master’s level programs catering to diverse career aspirations within finance:

Master of Science in Finance (MSF): This program is designed for individuals seeking a deep dive into the complexities of finance. It covers advanced topics such as derivatives, portfolio management, financial modeling, and alternative investments. The MSF program emphasizes analytical rigor and prepares graduates for careers in investment banking, asset management, corporate finance, and financial consulting.
Master of Science in Analytics (MSA) with a Finance Focus: This program combines the power of data analytics with financial expertise. Students learn to apply advanced statistical techniques and machine learning algorithms to solve financial problems, such as fraud detection, risk management, and algorithmic trading.

Experiential Learning

A hallmark of Kogod’s finance programs is its commitment to experiential learning. Students have opportunities to:

Participate in the Student Managed Investment Fund (SMIF): The SMIF allows students to manage a real investment portfolio, gaining hands-on experience in investment research, portfolio construction, and risk management.
Engage in case competitions: Students compete in teams to analyze complex financial scenarios and develop strategic recommendations.
Attend industry speaker events: Kogod regularly hosts prominent finance professionals who share their insights and experiences with students.
Pursue internships: Students are encouraged to pursue internships at leading financial institutions, corporations, and government agencies, providing valuable real-world experience.

Faculty Expertise

Kogod’s finance faculty consists of experienced academics and industry practitioners who are dedicated to providing students with a high-quality education. Faculty members are actively engaged in research and bring their expertise into the classroom, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant and up-to-date.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of Kogod’s finance programs are well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities, including:

Investment Banking Analyst
Financial Analyst
Portfolio Manager
Risk Manager
Corporate Treasurer
Financial Consultant

Kogod’s location in Washington, D.C., provides students with access to a vibrant financial community and numerous networking opportunities. The school’s career services team works closely with students to help them secure internships and full-time positions.