Financial Economics

The Financial Economics program at the University of Rochester offers students a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum designed to provide a deep understanding of financial markets, economic theory, and quantitative analysis. This interdisciplinary program combines principles from economics, finance, and mathematics to prepare students for careers in finance, banking, investment management, or further academic research. Students will develop expertise in areas such as asset pricing, financial modeling, risk management, and economic policy analysis, equipping them with the analytical tools necessary to navigate complex financial systems. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, encouraging students to apply economic principles to real-world financial problems through case studies, simulations, and hands-on projects. Rigorous coursework covers microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, quantitative methods, financial instruments, derivative securities, corporate finance, and econometrics. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, quantitative skills, and a strong understanding of market dynamics. Faculty members are highly experienced researchers and practitioners who bring their insights into the classroom, ensuring students learn the latest developments in financial economics. The program also offers opportunities for internships, research assistantships, and interaction with industry leaders, enabling students to build professional networks and gain valuable experience. Graduates of the Financial Economics program at the University of Rochester are well-equipped to pursue careers in financial analysis, investment banking, asset management, consulting, or continue their education through advanced degrees. With its blend of theoretical rigor and practical application, the program prepares students to excel in dynamic and competitive financial environments, making a significant impact in the financial sector or academia.

• ECO 108: Principles of Economics*
• ECO 207: Intermediate Microeconomics**
• ECO 209: Intermediate Macroeconomics**
• ECO 230: Economic Statistics or STT 213: Elements of Probability and Math Statistics or MTH 203: Introduction to Mathematical Statistics
• ECO 231W: Econometrics
• FIN 205 : Financial Management
• MTH 210: Introduction to Financial Mathematics***
• FIN 206 : Investments
• ACC 201: Financial Accounting
• ACC 221: Managerial Accounting
• Three economics electives (one must be from the following: ECO 211, ECO 217, ECO 232, ECO 233, ECO 263, ECO 268, ECO 270, ECO 274)
• Calculus requirement
• Upper-level writing requirement (two of the above courses must be taken for W credit).

*ECO 108 cannot be taken after 207

**Honors equivalent can be taken for ECO 207 and ECO 209

***Honors equivalent can be taken for MTH 210, and MTH 210 or MTH 210H must be taken prior to FIN 206

FIN 204 cannot be used for the completion of this degree.

Requirements

You must submit the following materials. You will either submit through MyROC or your respective application portal (or mail when applicable). Rochester accepts the Common Application (CA), the Universal College Application (UCA), and the Coalition Application (CoA). The materials listed under Official Documents must be submitted to us directly by your school, testing site, or family member, depending on the document.

MyROC

• Part I Application
• International Financial Support Form (IFSF)
• Interview sign-up (highly recommended)
• Links to electronic media (music, websites, photos, videos, etc.) (optional)
• Writing sample (optional)

Official Documents

• High school transcript
• Financial documentation
• Official test scores
• Teacher recommendation
• School report
• Mid-year report
• College transcript
• English language exam results
• Family/Community Recommendation Form (optional)

Application Portal

• Application (CA, UCA, or CoA)
• Application fee
• Freshman Supplement (UCA)
• Writing Supplement (CA)
• Early Decision Agreement (optional)
• Professional Degree Programs essay (optional)
• Arts Supplement (UCA) (optional)
• Athletic Supplement (UCA) (optional)

If your native language is not English and you completed your secondary or higher education in a non-native English speaking country, you must take a test of English language proficiency. In some instances, admission to the University will be contingent upon participation in the University’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Program.

• IELTS 7.0
• TOEFL (paper-based) 600
• TOEFL (internet-based) 100 
• PTE Academic 66

Scholarships

Need-based financial aid

If you are unable to meet the full cost of attendance for Rochester without need-based aid or sponsorship from the University, you must submit the CSS PROFILE. The CSS PROFILE is used to determine your potential eligibility for need-based University of Rochester grant funding and must be completed each year of attendance. Due to limited resources, only a small number of international applicants will qualify for need-based financial aid from the University. Applicants unable to secure the needed funding to cover the cost of attendance either through private funds or sponsorship cannot be admitted to the University.

Merit Scholarships

All applicants, regardless of citizenship, are considered for merit scholarships. No additional documentation is required to compete for a merit scholarship. Since merit scholarships are awarded independent of a student’s need, you must still submit the appropriate documents with your application as described above to complete your application for admission.

The Financial Economics major at the University of Rochester offers students an in-depth understanding of how financial markets operate and how economic theories apply to financial decision-making. This program is designed for students interested in careers such as financial analysts, investment bankers, or policy analysts, providing a rigorous foundation in economic principles and financial analysis. The curriculum combines courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, financial theory, econometrics, and quantitative methods, enabling students to develop strong analytical and quantitative skills essential for the financial industry. Students also have opportunities to engage with real-world financial problems through case studies, internships, and research projects, which prepare them for professional roles or graduate studies in finance, economics, or business administration. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding risk management, asset valuation, and financial markets' dynamics, making it highly relevant in today’s globalized economy. Faculty members are distinguished scholars and practitioners with extensive experience in finance, economics, and public policy. The program benefits from the university’s strong connections with financial institutions and industry leaders, providing students access to networking events, career counseling, and internships. Students are encouraged to complement their major coursework with electives in related fields such as accounting, computer science, and mathematics to enhance their versatility and employability. Graduates of the program have gone on to work in major financial firms, government agencies, and international organizations. The program aims to develop not only technical financial skills but also ethical judgment and responsible decision-making, which are critical in the financial sector. Overall, the Financial Economics major at the University of Rochester prepares students for a dynamic and competitive career landscape by combining theoretical foundations with practical applications and professional development opportunities.