Why Become a Finance Major at Villanova?

Finance as a field is very multidisciplinary. It is a relatively new field. Professors were not able to earn doctorates in finance until the mid 1960s. The academic field of finance started in the 1950s. There was an oversupply of economics professors, so many universities hired them to teach finance. They brought to finance the academic discipline of the study of economics. The study of management also benefited from these economics professors moving into other departments at the business schools.

Today, we hear the term financial economics to describe the study of finance. However, the term managerial economics is also appropriate. Finance is the integration of economics, management, business law and accounting into the study of financial markets and corporate finance. Because finance jobs are becoming more computerized, it is also important for finance majors to be comfortable with the use of computers. As a result, todays finance major has to master a number of skills in order to be effective in the work force.

Because of the multidisciplinary nature of the study of finance, the finance major is a very good major for students who are planning to go to law school or to graduate school. Graduate work does not have to be in finance. Past Villanova finance majors have done graduate work in computer science, sociology, secondary education, accounting, economics, management, and law. Finance is a strong academic degree that allows students to branch out into a number of different careers after graduation.

In the end, it is up to the student to make sure that he or she obtains the best possible education while at Villanova. It is the strength of your education that gives you freedom to pursue different careers after graduation.

If you have any questions about the study of finance, please feel free to make an appointment with any member of the finance department.

On February 4, Dr. James Clarke of the finance department spoke to the FMA club about careers in finance. First, he suggested that finance graduates work for 2-3 years before going to graduate school or to law school. Most top graduate schools want to their students to have work experience before admitting them to their graduate program.

The best jobs in finance are in consulting and investments. Corporate finance is very tough field to enter because it requires a strong accounting background. Contacts are very important. You must be able to establish and build a network of contacts. However, contacts will only get your foot in the door, but once you are in the organization it is up to you to produce.

With regard to interviews, Dr. Clarke stressed not being embarrassed or afraid to ask questions. You must find out exactly what the job is. Then ask youself if this is what you really want to do.

With regard to resumes, Dr. Clarke observed that you have to differentiate yourself from everyone else. For example, creating your own small business would hold more weight than an internship at Merrill Lynch. Also you may differentiate yourself with studies in other areas such as computer science, languages, or communication skills. Committment and uniqueness are two things to stress in your resume.

Finally, employers look first and foremost at GPA. There is no getting around it. Most companies that come to interview at Villanova pre-screen prospective students and those without the necessary GPA are usually excluded. This is most unfortunate because it penalizes students who take tougher courses, but it is reality.