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Opportunities Expand Through CBA and CFA Institute Program Partnership

Finance students at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Business Administration have a unique opportunity not available to finance majors at most colleges. The Department of Finance at CBA is one of only 37 University Partners in the U.S. with the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation by CFA Institute.
 
Dr. Richard DeFusco, professor of finance and CFA Charterholder®, said students who choose the CFA track as part of their finance major, are better prepared to complete the CFA exams because the rigorous coursework is closely tied to professional practice.
 
“The relationship with CFA Institute allows us to demonstrate to students what is expected for finance professionals in a workplace environment,” he said.
 
DeFusco, who leads the CFA program for the college, received the CFA designation himself in 1999, has contributed to the curriculum for the CFA® Program with the co-authored textbook, Quantitative Investment Analysis, 2nd edition. He believes the program reflects the college’s commitment to practical and relevant investment education.
 
DeFusco and Unlu

DeFusco (left) and Unlu

“We go through a regular review process to keep the CFA designation, which we originally received in 2008,” he said.
 
Dr. Emre Unlu, associate professor of finance and CFA Chaterholder®, believes the challenges and benefits of the CFA designation extend both ways.
 
“CFA Institute has a primary goal to promote education that makes the finance profession better and, in turn, makes society better,” said Unlu. “The partnership elevates the finance curriculum. As a result, the CFA track program attracts some of our best students interested in an investment management career.” 
 
Unlu sees finance students graduating from CBA with a definite advantage in the workplace.
 
“With the CFA track in the finance major, we provide academic training meshed with professional skills,” he said. “By taking this approach, students are positioned for success.”
 
As a graduate from a CFA Institute Program Partner, the department also nominates students for reduced CFA exam fees. To learn more about the CFA Investment track or any of the finance degree programs, visit the finance undergraduate webpage.
Published: April 30, 2015