Drexel’s Finance Concentration: Launching Financial Careers

Drexel University’s Finance concentration, offered within the LeBow College of Business, is a robust program designed to equip students with the analytical and practical skills needed to thrive in the dynamic world of finance. The program goes beyond textbook knowledge, emphasizing experiential learning and real-world application through its renowned co-op program.

Curriculum and Core Competencies

The curriculum provides a comprehensive understanding of core financial principles. Students delve into areas like:

• Corporate Finance: Mastering capital budgeting, financial statement analysis, and corporate valuation.
• Investments: Gaining expertise in portfolio management, security analysis, and alternative investments.
• Financial Modeling: Developing proficiency in creating and interpreting financial models for forecasting and decision-making.
• Derivatives: Understanding the pricing and hedging applications of options, futures, and other derivative instruments.
• Risk Management: Learning to identify, assess, and mitigate financial risks in various business contexts.

The program often incorporates specialized electives allowing students to tailor their studies towards specific career paths, such as investment banking, asset management, or financial analysis. Some examples of potential elective courses include advanced corporate finance, fixed income analysis, and real estate finance.

Experiential Learning: The Co-op Advantage

Drexel’s defining feature is its cooperative education (co-op) program. Finance students participate in three six-month co-op experiences, gaining valuable hands-on experience in diverse financial settings. These placements can range from working at leading investment banks and asset management firms to contributing to the finance departments of major corporations. This practical exposure not only enhances their resumes but also allows them to network with industry professionals and refine their career aspirations.

Career Opportunities and Alumni Network

Graduates of Drexel’s Finance concentration are well-prepared for a wide range of challenging and rewarding careers, including:

• Financial Analyst: Evaluating investment opportunities and providing financial advice.
• Investment Banker: Assisting companies with mergers, acquisitions, and capital raising activities.
• Portfolio Manager: Managing investment portfolios for individuals and institutions.
• Risk Manager: Identifying and mitigating financial risks for organizations.
• Consultant: Providing financial consulting services to businesses.

Drexel’s strong alumni network provides valuable mentorship and networking opportunities for students and graduates. The LeBow College of Business Career Services offers comprehensive support, including resume writing workshops, interview preparation, and job placement assistance.

Why Choose Drexel Finance?

Drexel’s Finance concentration stands out due to its focus on practical application and its unique co-op program. The combination of rigorous academic coursework and real-world experience equips graduates with a competitive edge in the job market and lays the foundation for successful careers in finance.