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Expand your knowledge of banking, economics, trading, and money management with a finance degree.

If you’re interested in gaining a better understanding of the principles behind capital market activities, a degree in finance studies will provide you with the background you need. Build on your core business courses as you explore concepts of corporate financial management—including theoretical aspects of decision making and interpreting and analyzing financial data (as well as risk management). Prepare for a career in financial analysis, money management, international banking, and more.

Program Highlights

  • On campus, online, or remote synchronous learning 
  • Prepares students for diverse careers in financial services
  • Emphasis on strong finance knowledge and business skills
  • Equips students with finance principles for a dynamic field

Pursue an exciting career in the world of finance.

Earn your bachelor’s degree as a finance major and unlock a world of possibilities.

Earn a finance degree that makes a difference.

  • James Hagan lecture with him wearing suit holding a microphone.

    Networking opportunities with finance professionals

    Our respected finance studies program gives you access to industry professionals. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and develop in-depth knowledge about the roles and responsibilities available to help prepare you for a career in finance.

  • Student wearing grey WSU sweatshirt with white writing wearing glasses smiling with fall trees in background.

    Small classes

    We combine the resources of a large university with the personalized attention that you get at a small school. Our faculty and staff are always accessible and willing to engage with you—from debating movies during business week, to potentially introducing you to valuable contacts within the industry.

  • Economics class featuring instructor with small group of 3 students working on a project with laptops.

    Supportive faculty 

    Faculty connections in the industry provide you with unparalleled access to industry professionals and career opportunities in finance. Take advantage of these opportunities to prepare yourself to be a successful and productive member of any organization you join.

The accounting and finance programs offered at Westfield State University are innovative and allow students to be career-ready. Students are not merely reading from a textbook and taking exams but are instead undertaking projects and engaging in high-impact practices that truly prepare students for life after college.

Dan Currier, '25

What can you do with a finance degree?

With a strong background in core business principles and specialization in finance theory, analysis, and management, you’ll be prepared for success in a variety of careers including:

  • Financial analyst
  • Stockbroker
  • Financial planner 
  • Commercial banker
  • Insurance agent
  • Securities, commodities, and financial services sales agent
  • Actuary
  • Portfolio manager
  • Investment banker
  • Securities trader
A person in a suit leans in the doorway at the entrance to a vault.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

The Finance major consists of 75 credits. All students must complete 39 credit hours of the Business Core, 18 credits of Non-Business Related Courses, and 18 credits of Finance coursework.

Required Business Courses
Finance - 18 Credits
Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get big school features with small school advantages.  

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 15:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • 92%+

    of faculty hold doctorates

  • 700+

    Internship Opportunities

Dedicated professionals who take an interest in your success.

Learn and grow with the support of our highly qualified faculty. Every class is designed to give you the tools you need to gain a deeper understanding of business and finance. Our faculty is routinely praised by students for the effort they put into the courses they teach. You’ll receive the personalized attention that makes a real difference in your education.

A finance instructor motions to notes written on a chalkboard while talking to two students.

Award Winning Degree.

Colleges of Distinction, an esteemed organization celebrating colleges and universities that provide exceptional undergraduate experiences, has honored Westfield State University for its outstanding programming in the field of business.

As a recognized College of Distinction, Westfield State has already earned acclaim for its commitment to well-rounded education. This latest recognition specifically highlights the institution's excellence in business education, emphasizing its effectiveness in preparing students for the demands of the field.

Colleges of Distinction Business Best Colleges 2024-2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

Is a finance degree worth it?

An enthusiastic yes! With job growth set to continue to increase over the next 10 years, a finance degree will set you up for an in-demand and rewarding career.

What is a degree in finance?

Our bachelor’s degree in finance consists of 75 credits—with 39 credit hours of the Business Core, 18 credits of non-business–related courses, and 18 credits of finance coursework. You’ll learn business basics, including: accounting, management, and economics. Your finance courses will build on this knowledge to help you understand the analysis of money, banking systems, financial markets, and economic activity.

Is a finance degree hard?

A finance degree can be challenging—especially for those who find math difficult. However, the courses are designed to equip you with the tools you need and at Westfield State you’ll have access to support and instruction that will help you to overcome any difficulties you may have along the way.

Request Information

We’re here to answer your questions and deliver the support you need along your academic journey. Please provide your contact information and area of interest, and we’ll be in touch shortly.

Name

Finance, B.S.