Finance (Economics)

The Bachelor of Science in Finance (Economics) at Purdue University West Lafayette offers students a comprehensive understanding of financial principles, economic theories, and analytical techniques essential for successful careers in the financial sector. This program is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in economic analysis, financial management, investment strategies, and risk assessment, enabling graduates to excel in diverse roles such as financial analysts, investment bankers, corporate finance managers, and economic consultants. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and financial markets, ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students will also have opportunities to learn about financial modeling, statistical analysis, and data interpretation, essential tools in today’s data-driven financial environment. The program emphasizes experiential learning through case studies, internships, and project-based assignments, providing real-world applications of concepts learned in the classroom. Purdue's close ties with industry partners and a strong network of alumni contribute to valuable internship and employment opportunities for students. Furthermore, the program offers specialized elective courses such as behavioral finance, international finance, financial derivatives, and sustainable finance, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests and career goals. Faculty members are experienced professionals and researchers dedicated to student success, offering personalized mentorship and guidance. The Bachelor of Science in Finance (Economics) prepares graduates not only for immediate employment but also for advanced studies in finance, economics, or related fields. With state-of-the-art facilities, a vibrant campus community, and a commitment to academic excellence, Purdue University West Lafayette provides an ideal environment for students to develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence required to thrive in the dynamic world of finance.

General Managerial Skill Requirement

Students must take (or receive a waiver based on equivalent master's level courses) MGMT 610 (Financial Management I), MGMT 641 (Options and Futures), and MGMT 600 (Financial Accounting) plus any one of the following four core courses: 

• MGMT 620 Marketing Management
• MGMT 650 Strategic Management
• MGMT 660 Operations Management
• OBHR 681 Behavior in Organizations 

Research Methods Requirement

Competence in Research Writing

Students must complete a research paper in at least one of the two doctoral seminars in finance offered in their first year in the program. In addition, students are expected to be working on research projects (individually or in collaboration with faculty) during the summer between the first and second year in the program. At the beginning of the summer term, each first year student must submit a one-page research plan for the summer to the Ph.D. student advisor. At the end of the summer term, each student's progress in research writing will be evaluated by the Ph.D. student advisor along with the finance faculty.

Research-Methods Topics 

Each finance student must complete research-methods topics in (a) Applied Statistics, and (b) Advanced Statistics/Econometrics. To complete the research-methods topic in Applied Statistics, students must take at least 6 credit hours from Category 1 or 2 in the Applied Statistics topic, as listed in the revised Ph.D. Program in Management. To complete the research-methods topic in Advanced Statistics or Econometrics, a student is required to take 8 credit hours in the Advanced Statistics/Econometrics topic. The Advanced Statistics/Econometrics topic has as a pre-requisite the Applied Statistics researchmethods topic and courses taken to satisfy that topic cannot be used to satisfy the requirements of the Advanced Statistics/Econometrics topic. 

A student may petition to complete a research-methods topic other than Applied Statistics or Advanced Statistics/Econometrics. Such a change in curriculum will require approval of the Ph.D. student Advisor & the finance Area Coordinator in conjunction with the finance faculty. 

Concentration (Major) Area Requirement

Each student must take a series of four doctoral seminars in finance. If a student performs poorly in any of these seminars or performs poorly on the preliminary examination, he/she may be required to re-take one or more of the doctoral seminars. In addition, each student is required to take MGMT 690, Topics in Finance, each semester that he/she is in the program. 

Related (Minor) Requirement

Finance students are required to complete a minor in Economics. To do so, each student must take ECON 606 (Micro I - Consumer and Producer theory; Markets), ECON 607 (Advanced consumer and producer theory) and ECON 615 (Mathematics for Economists). In addition, each student must take two other economics courses from the following set: 

• Econ 608 - Macro I - Dynamic Programming
• Econ 609 - Micro III - General Equilibrium and Social Welfare
• Econ 610 - Game Theory
• Econ 611 - Macro II - Intro. to General Equil. Macro Models
• Econ 612 - Macro III - Intro. to Selected Topics in Macroeconomics
• Econ 614 - Information and Uncertainty

Other Ph.D. courses may be substituted to fulfill this requirement at the discretion of the faculty. 

There is a minimum grade-point average requirement of 3.2 for the finance courses, as well as a minimum grade-point average requirement of 3.2 to fulfill the research-methods requirement for the management doctoral program in the finance area. In attempting to attain this minimum grade-point average, a student may retake any two courses once. If the grade achieved by retaking the course is higher than the initial grade, the second grade will be substituted for the first in computing the student's grade point average for the purpose of satisfying the grade requirement. If a student does not achieve the minimum 3.2 grade-point average, the student will be dropped from the program. Additionally, a student must retake any class for which they received a grade of C+ or below, even if they otherwise meet the 3.2 requirement. 

Plan of Study 

Students are required to submit a formal plan of study to the Graduate School by the end of the Spring Semester of their second year in the program, and prior to taking the preliminary examination. 

Preliminary Examination 

Students are required to pass the preliminary examination in finance held in May on completion of the second year in the program. If a student fails the exam, the student must retake the exam in January and if the student fails again, he or she will be dropped from the program. 

Doctoral Dissertation Proposal/Dissertation Committee Requirement

Within twelve months after passing the preliminary examination, each student must formally present and defend a dissertation research proposal to his/her dissertation committee. To be accepted, the proposal must represent substantial progress towards completion of a doctoral thesis along with a statement of further work to be performed. Once accepted by the committee, the proposal is considered a "contract" that will guide the student towards completion of the dissertation. A student may be dropped from the program if there is a significant delay in achieving an acceptable proposal. 

Defense of Dissertation 

Each student is required to make a public defense of his/her dissertation. The required procedures for holding a dissertation defense are listed in the revised Ph.D. Program in Management. 

• Please complete your application online by visiting the Purdue University Graduate School Site for Electronic Applications.
• The required application fee of $60 (U.S. dollars) for domestic applicants (including permanent residents) and $75 (U.S. dollars) for international applicants may be paid online using either Visa or MasterCard.
• One official transcript from each college or university attended with degree certification.
• Official score report of required admission test(s).
• Resumé or CV, submit online with your application.
• Statement of purpose or essay, submit online with your application.
• Two academic or professional letters of recommendation.
• TOEFL 

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

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Enroll in the course

The Financing (Economics) program at Purdue University – West Lafayette offers students a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip them with essential financial and economic analysis skills. The program emphasizes understanding the fundamentals of financial management, investment principles, and economic theories that underpin global markets. Students are introduced to key topics such as corporate finance, financial markets and institutions, macroeconomic and microeconomic analysis, and quantitative methods for economic research. Through rigorous coursework and practical applications, students develop the ability to analyze financial data, assess economic trends, and implement sound financial strategies. The program also provides training in econometrics, risk management, and financial modeling to prepare graduates for careers in banking, investment firms, consulting, and governmental agencies. Financial aid options are available, including scholarships, grants, and assistantships, to support students financially throughout their studies. The university collaborates with industry partners to facilitate internships and cooperative education opportunities, enabling students to gain real-world experience and build professional networks. Additionally, the program emphasizes ethical considerations and regulatory compliance in financial decision-making. Tuition fees are determined annually and may vary based on residency status and program changes. Financial support services, including counseling and planning, are accessible via the university’s financial aid office. The program’s strong alumni network provides ongoing career development and mentorship opportunities. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current financial challenges and innovations. Overall, the Financing (Economics) program aims to produce well-rounded graduates capable of contributing to financial institutions, government policy, and economic research sectors with a solid theoretical foundation and practical expertise.

The Bachelor of Science in Economics with a specialization in Finance at Purdue University - West Lafayette offers students a comprehensive education in economic theory, quantitative analysis, and financial principles. The program is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers in finance, banking, investment analysis, and economic policy. Students gain a solid foundation in microeconomics and macroeconomics, along with advanced coursework in financial institutions, corporate finance, investment management, and financial markets. The curriculum emphasizes the development of analytical skills, critical thinking, and quantitative methods, including the use of statistical software and modeling techniques.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to engage in practical applications of economic and financial concepts through case studies, internships, and research projects. Purdue's proximity to major financial hubs and partnerships with industry leaders provide students with access to internships and networking opportunities that are essential for career development in competitive financial markets. The program also offers specializations, minors, or electives to tailor students' education towards areas like banking, corporate finance, investments, or financial planning.

Students are encouraged to participate in student organizations related to economics and finance, such as finance clubs or economics societies. These groups often host guest lectures, workshops, and competitions, which complement classroom learning and enhance professional development. The faculty in this program are experienced academics and industry professionals who bring real-world insights and research-based teaching methods to the classroom.

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for roles in financial analysis, risk management, consulting, or to pursue advanced degrees such as an MBA or a professional credential like CFA. The program emphasizes ethical considerations and financial regulations, aligning with industry standards and ensuring graduates are knowledgeable about responsible financial decision-making. Overall, the Economics (Finance) program at Purdue provides a rigorous, application-oriented education that equips students with the skills needed for success in the dynamic financial sector.