Certificate in Finance

Hours: 12 – 18 On-Campus Online

About

The Certificate in Finance at Fort Hays State University provides a comprehensive overview of how businesses and individuals manage and invest capital. Students develop a solid understanding of domestic and global financial markets while acquiring practical skills applicable to a variety of professional fields. Designed for flexibility, the certificate is available fully online or on campus and stands competitively among finance certificates nationwide, including those within the Kansas Board of Regents system.

Why pursue a Certificate in Finance at Fort Hays State University?

FHSU’s Certificate in Finance offers a strong blend of academic rigor and real-world application. The curriculum covers essential topics such as corporate finance and investment analysis, providing students with a solid foundation in financial principles. Available both on campus and online, the certificate offers flexibility for working professionals and students balancing other commitments, without sacrificing quality.

On-campus students also benefit from access to the Investment Analytics Lab, which features Bloomberg terminals, offering valuable, hands-on experience with industry-standard tools. This certificate further emphasizes practical learning through case studies, simulations, and interactive coursework, preparing students to navigate the demands of today’s financial industry with confidence and competence.

Who is this program for?

Our Certificate in Finance is well-suited for individuals looking to expand their knowledge and skills in finance, whether they are working professionals, students from other academic backgrounds, or non-degree seekers pursuing specialized credentials. It is designed to support those aiming to advance in their current careers, transition into finance-related roles, or strengthen their expertise in financial management. This certificate is especially beneficial for:

Working professionals seeking finance knowledge
Students wanting to supplement their primary field of study
Those aiming for career advancement in finance
Non-degree-seeking students looking for a finance credential

Learning Outcomes

The Certificate in Finance is designed to equip students with essential skills and knowledge crucial for excelling in the finance industry. The learning outcomes ensure that students are well-prepared to meet the demands of various finance-related roles.

Comprehensive Financial Knowledge

Students will understand corporate finance, investment strategies, and financial institutions.

Practical Financial Skills

Students will be adept at applying financial theories and concepts to real-world situations through hands-on activities and practical projects.

Effective Communication

Students will develop strong communication skills for providing financial advice and collaborating with others.

Real-World Applications

The Certificate in Finance is structured to help students align their education with their career goals in the financial sector. Through elective finance courses, students can concentrate on areas of personal or professional interest while building practical problem-solving skills applicable to real-world situations. The curriculum integrates current industry practices and trends, enriching academic experience with real-world relevance.

Hands-on projects and case studies further enhance learning by allowing students to apply financial principles in simulated environments. This blend of theory and practice ensures students are well-equipped to make informed decisions and succeed in the complexities of today’s financial landscape.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

This certificate ensures students remain current with industry trends by continuously integrating the latest advancements into its curriculum. Faculty members actively engage with financial research and market developments, bringing timely insights into the classroom. This approach equips students with relevant knowledge and skills to navigate the evolving financial landscape and develop effective, forward-looking strategies.

The certificate also emphasizes the use of cutting-edge technology. On-campus students enrolled in investment-related courses benefit from hands-on experience in the FHSU’s Investment Analytics Lab, which features Bloomberg terminals. This access to industry-standard tools enhances technical proficiency and prepares students to work confidently with the platforms used by finance professionals worldwide.

Hands-on Activities

Hands-on learning is a key element of the Certificate in Finance, ensuring students gain practical experience alongside a strong theoretical foundation. The Investment Analytics Lab offers access to Bloomberg terminals, enabling students to work with real-time financial data and strengthen their analytical skills.

The certificate also incorporates simulations and case studies, giving students the opportunity to solve real-world financial challenges. These applied learning experiences help bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing students to confidently apply their knowledge in professional settings, making them highly attractive to employers.

What You’ll Learn:

Fundamentals of corporate finance
Understanding financial institutions
Investment analysis techniques
Advanced financial management
Application of financial theories

How You’ll Learn:

Interactive online courses
Case studies and simulations
Access to the Investment Analytics Lab for on-campus students
Practical projects and assignments

Courses

The certificate’s core curriculum includes essential finance courses that provide a broad understanding of financial management as well as financial institutions. Students can tailor their learning by selecting elective courses that align with their interests and career goals, ensuring a well-rounded education in finance.

FIN 305: Managerial Finance

This course is a study of the basic concepts of financial management of a corporation. Topics include ratio analysis, time value of money, valuation, capital budgeting, risk and return, cost of capital, and international financial management.

FIN 311: Fundamentals of Investments

This course covers the fundamental concepts of investment analysis and management, including the types and characteristics of investment securities and markets, security analysis and selection, valuation, risk and return, and portfolio theory.

FIN 641: Financial Markets and Institutions

This course is a study of the nature, scope, and role of financial institutions in the economy, supply of and demand for loanable funds, money market, capital markets, the level and structure of interest rates, and monetary, fiscal, and debt management policies.

Discover the full Certificate in Finance course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,444.76* (on-campus) or $3,180.60* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 12 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers a range of complementary programs that enhance the value of the Certificate in Finance. These include undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as specialized certificates aligned with the finance industry. Together, these programs provide students with additional opportunities to deepen their expertise, broaden their career prospects, and gain a well-rounded, industry-relevant education.

FAQ

How long does it take to complete the certificate?

The Certificate in Finance typically takes three semesters to complete, depending on the student's pace and course availability.

What are the benefits of completing the certificate?

The certificate enhances your financial knowledge, boosts your resume, and provides practical skills applicable to various finance-related roles.

Are the courses available online?

The Certificate in Finance is available online, offering flexibility for working professionals and remote students.

What is the prerequisite knowledge essential for this certificate?

Students must complete courses in accounting and mathematics (ACCT 203 and MATH 250) to ensure they have the foundational knowledge needed for advanced finance courses.

Information about the Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting

FHSU’s Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting provides expertise in effectively and ethically managing money in both public and private sectors for a highly versatile, in-demand career path. Our department provides highly sought-after degrees in accounting, finance, and international business and economics. These programs are backed by career-centered internship opportunities, in-depth mentoring by faculty and staff, and flexible online degrees. Our programs prepare students for in-demand jobs, with courses that span the entire business landscape. The Robbins Banking Institute further enhances career preparation in the area of banking, offering a practical, real-time curriculum for rewarding careers. Our faculty, who are experts in their field and student-focused, support students to maximize individual growth.

Student Organizations

While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.

Accounting Club: This club offers a valuable opportunity for accounting students to connect with peers and prepare for their future careers. It aims to help members explore the various opportunities available in the field of accounting and introduce them to potential employers. Meetings frequently feature guest speakers who hold accounting degrees and are actively working in the profession.
Student Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners: The ACFE organization brings together students from many disciplines to promote the detection and prevention of fraud in business.
Economics Club: The FHSU Economics Club is available to all students regardless of their major or knowledge of economics with the goal of promoting the study of and interest in economics. The signature activity of the club is to create a “Student Price Index” through a collaborative research project on FHSU student economic expectations. The club members typically take a trip to a major city in the U.S. every year.
Finance Club: The FHSU Finance Club strives to assist in the professional, educational, and social development of college students interested in finance. The club also encourages interaction between the business sector, faculty, and students at FHSU. As part of club operations, they bring in speakers and take trips around the U.S. to learn more about the finance field.
International Business Club: This club strives to improve students’ awareness and understanding of global business practices and economic issues. These issues are explored from diverse perspectives. Ultimately, the club aims to develop global citizen-leaders by enhancing students’ professional, educational, and social development through its discussions, activities, and international travel experiences.

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