Option in Finance

The Bachelor of Science in Finance at California State University offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for a successful career in the dynamic and ever-changing world of finance. This rigorous program combines foundational principles with practical applications, equipping students with the analytical skills and financial knowledge necessary to excel in a variety of roles within the finance industry. Throughout their studies, students explore core topics such as financial management, investment analysis, corporate finance, financial markets and institutions, and risk management. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and real-world application, encouraging students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and ethical decision-making skills essential for responsible financial leadership.

In addition to core courses, students have the opportunity to specialize through electives in areas such as international finance, financial planning, or accounting, allowing for tailored educational pathways that align with individual career goals. The program integrates experiential learning experiences, including internships, case studies, simulation exercises, and projects that connect classroom theory with practical industry scenarios. Faculty members are industry professionals and academics dedicated to providing personalized mentorship and up-to-date insights into the current financial landscape.

California State University's vibrant campus community and strong connections with local financial institutions offer students a supportive environment for networking, collaborations, and career development. Graduates of the Finance program are well-prepared to pursue careers in banking, investment firms, corporate finance departments, insurance companies, and government agencies. Many alumni also go on to pursue advanced degrees or professional certifications such as the CFA or CFP, further enhancing their professional credentials. With a resilient curriculum and dedicated faculty, the Bachelor of Science in Finance at California State University provides students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in the competitive financial sector and contribute meaningfully to their organizations and communities.

Lower Division Requirements (21-22 units)

ACCT 210 Financial Accounting (3)
ACCT 220 Managerial Accounting (3)
BUS 110 Business Law (3)
COMP 101 Computer Literacy (3)
ECON 110 Principles of Microeconomics (3)
ECON 111 Principles of Macroeconomics (3)
Select either:
MATH 140 Calculus for Business Applications (3)
or
MATH 150 Calculus I (4)

Upper Division Required Major Courses (36 units)

ACCT 300 Applied Managerial Accounting (3)
BUS 320 Business Operations (3)
ECON 310 Intermediate Microeconomics (3)
ECON 311 Intermediate Macroeconomics (3)

Select one of the following courses:

ENGL 330 Interdisciplinary Writing (3)
or
ENGL 482 Technical and Business Writing (3) 
or
ENGL 483 Technical Visual Communication (3)

Complete the following:
FIN 300 Business Finance (3)
MATH 329 Statistics for Business and Economics (3)
MGT 307 Management of Organizations (3)
MGT 326 Scientific and Professional Ethics (BIOL) (3)
MIS 310 Management Information Systems (3)
MKT 310 Principles of Marketing (3)
BUS 499 Capstone (3)*

* A student must complete these 5 courses before enrolling in BUS 499.
ACCT 300
FIN 300
MATH 329
ECON 310/329 (either ECON310 or ECON329)
ECON 311/320 (either ECON311 or ECON320)

* A student may take two courses from the list below concurrently with BUS 499.
BUS 320
MIS 310
ENGL 330/482/483 (select one from the three)
MGT 307
MGT/BIOL 326
MKT 310

* For Bus 499 please fill out and complete form below and e-mail to john-andrew.morris@csuci.edu

Bus 499 Permission Form (MS Word, 50.5KB)

Upper Division Interdisciplinary Major Courses (6 units)

BUS 331 Biotechnology in the Twenty-First Century (BIOL) (3)
BUS 334 The Business of Art (ART) (3)
BUS 335 Business and the Performing Arts (PA) (3)
BUS 340 Business and Economics in American Literature (ECON/ENGL) (3)
BUS 341 Drug Discovery and Development (CHEM/ECON) (3) (may double count in the Entrepreneur Option)
BUS 342 The Zoo: Conservation, Education and Recreation (BIOL/ECON/EDUC) (3)
BUS 344 The Library: Collections, Services and Instruction (ECON/EDUC/LIB) (3)
BUS 349 History of Business and Economics in North America (ECON/HIST) (3)
BUS 434 The Museum: Culture, Business and Education (ART/EDUC) (3)
ECON 343 Capital Theory (FIN) (3)

Option (15 units)

Students may select one of the following options:
To complete the elective requirements indicated below, choose any upper division course from ACCT, BUS, ECON, FIN, MGT, MKT or MIS not already used in the major. (Not applicable to the Management Option)

Entrepreneurship Option
BUS 341 Drug Discovery and Development (CHEM/ECON)(3)
MGT 325 Entrepreneurial Management (3)

Select three of the following:
ECON 411 Economics of Entrepreneurship (3)
MGT 424 Organizational Behavior (PSY) (3)
MKT 411 New Product Development and Management (3)

Electives (3)
 

Finance Option
FIN 410 Financial Markets and Institutions (3)
FIN 411 Corporate Finance Management (3)
FIN 412 International Financial Management (3)
FIN 413 Investment Analysis (3)
Electives (3)
 

Global Business Option
MGT 410 Management of International Business (3)
MKT 410 International Marketing Management (3)

Select three from the following:
ECON 470 The World Economy (3)
ECON 471 International Trade (3)
ECON 472 International Macroeconomics (3)
FIN 412 International Finance Management (3)
MGT 471 Project Management (3)
Electives (3)
 

Management Option
MGT 410 Management of International Business (3)
MGT 421 Human Resource Management (3)
MGT 424 Organizational Behavior (PSY) (3)

Select two from the following:
MGT 325 Entrepreneurial Management (3)
MGT 429 Program Management (3)
MGT 471 Project Management (3)
MGT 490 Special Topics (3)
MGT 492 Service Learning/Internship (1-3)
MGT 497 Directed Study (1-3)
 

Marketing Option
MKT 311 Consumer Behavior (3)
MKT 409 Marketing Research (3)
MKT 410 International Marketing Management (3)
MKT 411 New Product Development and Management (3)

Electives (3)

Required Supporting and Other GE Courses (57 units)

Upper Division Interdisciplinary course outside
Business Major (3)
American Institutions (6)
Other GE Courses in Categories A-E (39)
Free Electives (8-9)

International Undergraduate Admission Requirements

The process for freshmen and transfer students is the same; however, as a transfer student additional criteria must be met. This additional criteria is marked with an *.

International Checklist & Application

International Freshmen Checklist  

International Transfer Checklist 

Financial Affidavit for Undergraduate applicants 

Submit all application documents to the Center for International Affairs. 

*Transfer Students: We are currently accepting applications from all community colleges in the U.S.  Please make sure that you have at least 60 units and have completed “Oral communication”, “Written communication”, “Critical thinking” and “College level mathematics/quantitative reasoning” with “C” or better.  Please note that the Nursing programs are closed for international students.  

English Score

Submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other acceptable test (see below for list of tests).  Scores must be sent directly to CSUCI from testing agency.

Acceptable English Placement Exams

TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language with a minimum Paper-Based score of 500, a minimum Computer Based score of 173 or a minimum Internet Based score of 61.

IELTS – International English Language Test System with an overall band score of 6.0.

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

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Bachelor of Science in Finance program at California State University offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for successful careers in financial management, investment analysis, and related fields. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to navigate the complex financial landscape. Regarding financing studies, students have access to a variety of financial support options, including scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs provided by the university. These resources aim to reduce the financial burden on students and make higher education more accessible. The university participates in federal and state financial aid programs, allowing eligible students to apply for loans, work-study opportunities, and need-based grants. Additionally, CSU offers institutional scholarships specifically for students enrolled in business and finance programs, which are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and upcoming career goals. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for federal assistance. Furthermore, many students seek part-time employment within the campus to support their studies financially. The university's location in California provides additional opportunities for internships and employment with local financial firms, banks, and investment companies, which can also contribute to a student's financial stability during their studies. For international students, there are specific visa and funding options available, though these are more limited compared to domestic students. Overall, California State University is committed to providing diverse financing options and support services to assist students in financing their education and minimizing debt load upon graduation.

The Bachelor of Science in Finance at California State University offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for diverse careers in the financial sector. This program emphasizes foundational knowledge in financial analysis, investment strategies, corporate finance, financial markets, and risk management. Students gain practical skills through a curriculum that combines theoretical principles with real-world applications, often including case studies, simulations, and internships. The program curriculum covers essential topics such as financial accounting, managerial finance, banking, securities analysis, and personal financial planning, ensuring graduates are well-rounded financial professionals. The faculty comprises experienced scholars and industry practitioners who provide mentorship and insights into current financial trends and challenges. Students are encouraged to develop quantitative and analytical skills critical for roles in financial analysis, banking, insurance, investment firms, and corporate finance departments. The program also offers opportunities for specialization through elective courses, participation in finance clubs, competitions, and networking events. Additionally, students can pursue internships through university partnerships with local and national financial institutions, providing valuable work experience and professional connections. The program aims to foster ethical decision-making, effective communication, and leadership qualities among its graduates. Upon completion, students are prepared for entry-level positions or to pursue advanced certifications like CFA or CFP. The university maintains a strong focus on experiential learning, integrating case competitions and financial research projects into the curriculum. Graduates of the program often go on to successful careers in financial analysis, portfolio management, investment banking, corporate finance, or pursue graduate studies in business or finance. The program is accredited and designed to meet industry standards, ensuring that students receive education aligned with current market needs. The university also offers career services and support tailored to finance students, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job placement assistance, to facilitate a smooth transition into the finance industry.