Financial Analyst Concentration

If you’re interested in financial markets, investing or managing money for organizations, the financial analyst concentration gives you a direct path into one of the most respected careers in business. This track is designed for students who want to build the skills to become financial analysts, portfolio managers or investment professionals. It prepares you for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation – one of the top credentials in the industry.  

Students may apply for the financial analyst concentration once they have completed the required prerequisite coursework. Admission to the concentration places you on a defined path toward CFA‑aligned training and advanced finance classes.

Why pursue a financial analyst concentration?

Earn a credential that employers worldwide trust.

  • Direct preparation for the CFA Level I exam. Complete coursework that covers a significant portion of the CFA Candidate Body of Knowledge. Classes provide a strong academic foundation and a clear pathway to sit for the CFA Level I exam upon graduation.  
  • University affiliation with CFA Institute. BGSU’s program is officially recognized for meeting global academic standards. This credential strengthens our credibility with employers. 
  • Access to CFA exam scholarships. Students can apply for UAP student scholarships that help subsidize the cost of CFA exam registration fees. This is a major financial advantage for aspiring analysts.  
  • A curriculum built for real‑world financial careers. The concentration includes advanced courses in investment analysis, portfolio management, financial markets, corporate finance, international finance and risk management. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for careers in investment management, financial analysis and financial decision‑making.

Program requirements

The financial planning concentration requires eight courses (24 credit hours) beyond the general BSBA degree requirements: 

  • The concentration in financial planning requires students to complete the following eight courses (24 credit hours) beyond the general degree requirements for a BSBA degree:
  • ECON 3030 – Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory 
  • FIN 3400 – Financial Markets 
  • FIN 3500 – Corporate Finance 
  • FIN 4100 – International Financial Management 
  • FIN 4350 – Investment Analysis 
  • FIN 4360 – Portfolio Management 
  • FIN 4450 – Financial Institutions & Risk Management 
  • FIN 4550 – Financial Management with Excel Applications 
  • A grade of C or better in FIN 3000 (Business Finance) is required to take any upper 3000- and 4000-level finance courses. 
  • Substitute courses must be approved by the department. 

Updated: 03/04/2026 02:37PM