Finance is the study of the purchase and sale of assets by individuals and institutions. Understanding the markets and the terms of financial transactions in a global context is integral to the study of finance. Finance majors develop analytical skills through required courses that emphasize the financial environment of business, the decision-making process of corporations, key principles underlying the investment and valuation process, and the expanding international context of financial analysis, portfolio construction and trading.<br><br>Finance majors use real-time data in the Trading Room, housed in the Hughey Center for Financial Services, where students apply theory and information technology to financial analysis, asset valuation and risk management. The broad range of electives offered allows for specialization through concentrations in Financial Planning, Corporate Finance, Capital Markets and Sustainable Investing. Students are encouraged to participate in internships (paid or unpaid) as part of the Finance major, and often have their pick from a variety of career choices in commercial banking, corporate finance, financial planning, insurance, money management and more. The Finance degree provides sound preparation for career opportunities in management training programs of major corporations, financial services firms, insurance and financial planning and also for graduate education in business, finance, law and other disciplines.