Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration

Finance

Overview

The study of Finance analyzes the process of obtaining and allocating financial capital (funds) for the purchase of real capital (plant and equipment). One of the main areas of focus is the risk-return relationship and the maximization of return for a given level of risk.

Students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance will have a strong knowledge of analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills to assess the financial performance of a firm and design risk reducing strategies. Courses are offered through in-class and distance learning instruction.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates with a concentration in Finance from UH West O‘ahu will be able to:

  • Use quantitative tools to evaluate and manage risk and calculate company value.
  • Use time value of money concepts to solve financial problems.
  • Use valuation methods to price securities.
  • Use the capital structure of a company to calculate the firm’s cost of capital.

Careers and Earning Potential

The study of Finance prepares students for careers in commercial and investment banking, consulting, insurance, real estate, academia, non-profit organizations, and government. Finance graduates also find employment as analysts, statisticians, actuaries, financial advisors, managers, consultants, brokers, stock and derivative traders, and more.

According to CNNMoney and the National Association of Colleges and Employers, the average starting salary for business majors was highest for students in the discipline of finance in 2011 at $50,535. With an understanding of finance, graduates are able to analyze and execute the financial aspects of managerial decisions. In addition, it prepares students for a variety of graduate programs including finance, business, economics, education, management, public administration, and law.

For more information on careers and earning potential, visit the Hawaiʻi Career Explorer website.

Student Clubs

The UH West Oʻahu Beta Upsilon Chapter of Gamma Iota Sigma Risk Management, Insurance, and Actuarial Science International Fraternity offers an opportunity for students to learn more about the diverse careers available in risk management and insurance. Membership to this organization is a career-long membership for student members and provides an international network of individuals that share their professional expertise and experience in the industry.