Corporate Finance

The Corporate Finance program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers students a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of financial management within the corporate sector. Designed to prepare graduates for careers in financial analysis, planning, and decision-making, this program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications to equip students with the skills necessary to succeed in today's dynamic business environment. Participants will explore key topics such as financial statement analysis, investment decision criteria, capital budgeting, risk management, and the structure of financial markets. The curriculum incorporates coursework in accounting, economics, and quantitative analysis, providing a multidisciplinary approach to understanding corporate finance functions. Students will also engage in case studies, simulations, and projects that foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities relevant to real-world financial challenges. The program is suitable for those aspiring to roles in investment banking, corporate finance departments, financial consulting, or entrepreneurship. With faculty members recognized for their expertise and research contributions, students benefit from a learning environment that combines academic rigor with industry relevance. Additionally, the university's extensive network of alumni and corporate partners offers valuable internship and employment opportunities. By the end of the program, graduates will possess a solid foundation in financial theory, analytical skills, and strategic decision-making capabilities, enabling them to contribute effectively to the financial health and growth of organizations. This program reflects the University of Illinois’s commitment to excellence in business education and its dedication to preparing students for leadership roles in the world of corporate finance.

Highly Recommended Course (required for the relevant track)

• Finance 521: Advanced Corporate Finance

Other Electives (At least 8 additional hours from the relevant list below)

• Mergers & Acquisitions (2 hours)
• Cases in Financial Strategy
• Enterprise Risk Management
• International Finance
• Financial Statement Analysis
• Growth Corp Capital Funding
• Investment Banking
• Behavioral Finance (2 hours)
• Retirement Policy (2 hours)
• Business Tax Policy (2 hours)

Requirements

• Résumé
• Written Statement. The 300 word statement is the only statement required.  Applicants Do NOT need to complete the 1500 word statement referenced in the online application.
• Unofficial Transcripts. The unofficial transcripts must include a transcript legend, grade scale or grade criteria. If an offer of admission is made, the Official Transcript(s) are required to be submitted upon arrival to campus**.
• Degree Certificate/Diploma If an offer of admission is made, the final Official Transcripts and the Official Degree Certificate(s)/Diploma are required to be submitted upon arrival to campus.
• (3) Letters of Recommendation. Enter the name and email address of 3 recommenders. The application system will send emails to the Recommenders and request their electronic submission.
• Provide official GMAT or GRE scores.  MSF applicants are required to submit a test score.  All current and previous results must be reported to the University of Illinois electronically.  Application files will not be reviewed until a GMAT or GRE score is provided.
• Online Application/ fee payment ($70 domestic/$90 international) can be paid by credit card when you submit your online application.
• English Language Test Score TOEFL (from ETS) or IELTS score TOEFL scores must be sent to the U of I directly from ETS using Institution Code: 1836, Department Code: 00. IF you are required to select a division, you may select “Graduate School of Management”. For IELTS scores, you should upload a copy of your score card.
• International applicants are required to provide financial verification for the first 12 months of their program. 

The Corporate Finance program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers students comprehensive coursework designed to equip them with the fundamental principles and practical skills necessary for a successful career in the finance industry. The program emphasizes the understanding of financial management, investment analysis, capital markets, and decision-making processes within corporations. Students are introduced to core topics such as financial statement analysis, valuation techniques, risk management, and financial modeling. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with real-world application, often incorporating case studies, simulations, and project-based learning.

The faculty responsible for the program are renowned experts in the field, contributing to both academic research and industry practice. The program also provides students with opportunities to develop quantitative skills through extensive coursework in statistics, mathematics, and econometrics, which are essential for analyzing financial data and making data-driven investment decisions. Furthermore, students have access to state-of-the-art financial laboratories and resources, enabling them to gain practical experience in financial analysis and corporate decision-making.

Internship opportunities are heavily promoted within the program, allowing students to gain valuable industry experience and establish professional networks. The program maintains strong connections with financial institutions, including banks, investment firms, and corporate finance departments, facilitating placements and collaborations. The curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect current trends and regulatory changes in the global financial environment. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to pursue careers in investment banking, asset management, corporate finance departments, financial consulting, and other related fields.

Financial aid options are available for eligible students, including scholarships, assistantships, and loans, aimed at reducing the financial burden and encouraging a diverse student body. The university’s Office of Financial Aid provides detailed guidance on application procedures and eligibility criteria. Overall, the Corporate Finance program at the University of Illinois offers a rigorous and dynamic education grounded in real-world application, preparing students to excel in the fast-paced and ever-evolving field of corporate finance.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a comprehensive program in Corporate Finance, designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the dynamic field of finance. The program emphasizes a solid understanding of financial markets, investment analysis, risk management, and corporate financial strategies. Students are introduced to fundamental concepts such as financial statement analysis, capital budgeting, and funding strategies, alongside advanced topics like mergers and acquisitions, financial modeling, and valuation techniques. The curriculum integrates theoretical frameworks with practical applications, preparing graduates to make informed financial decisions in various organizational settings.

Students have opportunities to engage with real-world financial scenarios through case studies, internships, and project-based learning modules, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The program also offers courses in related disciplines such as economics, accounting, and management, providing a holistic understanding of the business environment. Faculty members are renowned experts in their fields, bringing a depth of knowledge and industry experience that enriches the learning experience.

The university’s strong ties with financial institutions and corporate partners offer students internships and career placement opportunities in leading firms. The program aims to develop proficient financial analysts, advisors, and corporate finance specialists who can operate effectively in global markets. Graduates of the Corporate Finance program at the University of Illinois benefit from a rigorous academic foundation, extensive professional networks, and a reputation for excellence in business education. Overall, the program prepares students to pursue successful careers in areas such as investment banking, asset management, financial consulting, and corporate finance departments across various industries worldwide.