When you choose the Investments option within the Finance major, you gain the tools and experience to navigate financial markets with confidence. You’ll learn how to evaluate securities, build investment portfolios and manage risk in ways that prepare you for a career in asset management, equity research, portfolio strategy or wealth management. This option gives you the skills and real-world practice to succeed in the fast-paced world of investments.
You must apply to declare the Investments option for your Finance major. Learn more about the application process.
Program Features
Hands-on Experience
Work with industry-standard financial databases, software and analytical tools while tackling projects that mirror professional workflows. From selecting securities to building portfolios and managing risk, you’ll gain the applied portfolio experience that sets you apart in the job market.
Career-Ready Skill Set
Graduate with more than theory. From financial modeling and valuation to professional communication, you’ll master the skills employers want and need.
CFA Exam Preparation
Be ready to take the next step. Our coursework prepares you to pursue the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation, one of the most respected certifications in the industry. Recognized as a CFA Institute University Affiliation Program, our curriculum aligns with professional standards and gives you an edge in the job market.
Notable Courses
To earn your bachelor’s degree in Finance with the Investments option, you’ll take 120 credit hours of classes. That’s four to five classes a semester, on average. Some of the courses that students have the opportunity to take through the Investments option are listed below:
Financial Statement Analysis (FINA 375)
Analyze financial reports and their impact on decisions. Learn how to interpret data, evaluate options and avoid misusing financial statements.
Options, Futures and Derivative Securities (FINA 467)
Use derivative securities to manage risk and enhance portfolios. Explore strategies using options, futures and other financial instruments.
Portfolio Practicum I & II (FINA 468 and 469)
Gain practical experience in financial asset management by managing the college’s multimillion-dollar Cornhusker Fund. Learn how to select individual securities and develop a portfolio strategy.
Recent Career Placements
The Investments option equips you with portfolio management, financial analysis and valuation skills that make you a standout candidate for competitive roles at both national and regional employers.
Recent National Employers
These organizations span the spectrum from global investment banks and asset manager to cutting-edge financial data and advisory platforms, offering paths in investment strategies, analysis, portfolio management and wealth services.
| BMO Capital Markets |
| Charles Schwab |
| Deutsche Bank |
| FactSet |
| Goldman Sachs |
| Jefferies |
| PIMCO |
| Prudential Financial |
| Stephens |
| UBS Wealth Management |
Recent Regional Employers
These local firms offer opportunities in areas like consulting, wealth and insurance advisory, financial planning and investment management. These employers have a big impact in Nebraska and beyond.
| Ameritas |
| First Nebraska Trust |
| Milliman |
| Mutual of Omaha |
| Orion |
My undergraduate finance studies at Nebraska built a strong foundation in corporate finance, investments, valuation and risk analysis. The coursework, offered through the investments option, sharpened my analytical and problem-solving skills — tools that proved invaluable in launching my career in investment banking and continue to support my work in private markets today.
The investments option in the finance major gave me the right mix of classroom knowledge and practical experience. I learned how to think critically about businesses, how markets value risk and return, and how to communicate complex ideas clearly. I use these skills every day in investment banking.
Application Process
To declare the Investments option, you must apply and be admitted into the program.
Key Dates
- Application Portal Opens: January 15
- Application Portal Closes: March 1 at 11:59 p.m.
- Admission Decisions: Mid-March
Eligibility
You can apply if you:
- Have sophomore or junior class standing at the time of application (junior class standing preferred).
- Completed FINA 361 with a grade of C or better.
- Have completed or are currently enrolled in FINA 363.
Steps to Apply
- Complete the online application between January 15-March 1.
- Upload any required materials in the application portal.
- Watch for your admission decision in mid-March and follow the next steps provided.
