Programs for Outstanding Undergraduate Students – Economics, Finance, Legal Studies at the Culverhouse College of Business

Below are short descriptions of some programs offered by the Department of Economics, Finance, and Legal Studies primarily directed toward outstanding students. The Finance and Economics Programs have attracted some of the most outstanding undergraduate students in the University. In addition, our Master of Science in Finance has attracted many of our most highly qualified graduate students. We have several options in the programs that have been in place for several years, and we have recently added new programs that may be of interest to you.

We are looking for students who wish to take a far more challenging curriculum than usual for the programs listed below. These programs generally require the additional math classes necessary for advanced graduate work. A brief description of the various program options is given below. If you are interested in one of these programs, please email Dixie Hamner at Dixie Hamner at dhamner@culverhouse.ua.edu

Quantitative Finance

The curriculum for quantitative finance contains all the core finance classes plus basic engineering math classes. This is an excellent major for those with a solid quantitative background who wish to study finance. In addition, it is excellent training for graduate school and some of the more technical areas of employment in finance.

Quantitative Economics

Our regular economics program is quite flexible and can accommodate students who plan to take the regular math classes; however, we advise all students to take as much math as possible. Taking more math classes expands your opportunity for additional work in economics. In addition, the quantitative economics curriculum incorporates the math requirements that the faculty believe are necessary for students who want to pursue a Ph.D. in economics.

Double major in Finance and Math

This course of study is very similar to the Quantitative Finance major. However, this option requires a few additional math classes that permit students to receive both majors. Graduates in these majors have a wide range of graduate study and employment opportunities.

Double major in Economics and Math

Students interested in studying math often look to apply their study to the “real world,” and economics is an excellent venue for those applications. Likewise, advanced study in economics usually requires rigorous training in math. This degree satisfies both of those needs and is outstanding preparation for those who plan to pursue a Ph.D. in economics.

The Accelerated Master’s Program

The Accelerated Master’s program allows the department to identify students with outstanding potential at an early stage of their undergraduate degree. Such students are invited into a program that leads to both the undergraduate degree in Finance or Economics and a Master’s degree (MS Finance/MA Economics/ MS Statistics), usually within 4 years of starting the Undergraduate program.