UIC Finance Minor: Expand Your Financial Acumen

The Finance Minor at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) offers non-business students the opportunity to gain a foundational understanding of financial principles and practices. This minor is designed to complement various academic disciplines, providing students with a valuable skill set applicable to a wide range of career paths.

Curriculum Highlights

The Finance Minor requires the completion of 18 credit hours, thoughtfully structured to provide a solid grounding in core finance concepts. Typically, the coursework includes:

• Introduction to Finance: This course covers fundamental financial concepts such as time value of money, risk and return, and financial statement analysis.
• Corporate Finance: Delves into the financial decisions of corporations, including capital budgeting, dividend policy, and working capital management.
• Investments: Explores various investment instruments, portfolio management techniques, and market analysis.
• Elective Courses: Students can choose from a selection of elective courses to further specialize in areas of interest, such as real estate finance, financial modeling, or international finance. This allows for tailoring the minor to align with individual career goals.

Benefits of Pursuing the Finance Minor

Earning a Finance Minor can significantly enhance your career prospects. Here are some key benefits:

• Increased Employability: Employers value candidates with financial literacy, regardless of their primary field. The Finance Minor demonstrates your commitment to developing these skills.
• Career Versatility: The knowledge gained through the minor can be applied to various industries, including healthcare, technology, non-profit organizations, and government.
• Enhanced Decision-Making: A strong understanding of finance principles enables you to make informed personal and professional financial decisions.
• Competitive Advantage: In a competitive job market, the Finance Minor can set you apart from other candidates with similar backgrounds.
• Graduate School Preparation: The minor provides a solid foundation for pursuing advanced degrees in business, finance, or related fields.

Who Should Consider the Finance Minor?

The Finance Minor is an excellent option for students in a variety of majors, including:

• Liberal Arts: Political Science, Sociology, Psychology – Finance skills enhance understanding of economic and social issues.
• Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics – Understanding financial aspects of research funding and business opportunities.
• Engineering: Civil, Mechanical, Electrical – Management of project budgets and cost analysis.
• Healthcare: Nursing, Public Health – Navigating healthcare finance and managing personal finances.

Admissions and Requirements

Students interested in pursuing the Finance Minor should consult with their academic advisor and the College of Business Administration at UIC to ensure they meet the eligibility requirements. Generally, a minimum GPA is required, and students must be in good academic standing.

By adding a Finance Minor to your undergraduate degree, you are making a strategic investment in your future, equipping yourself with the knowledge and skills to thrive in today's dynamic and financially driven world.