Bachelor of Science in Finance

Emphasizing a finance-focused education, this degree directly targets the financial industry including commercial banks, investment banks, investment companies, and insurance companies.

This degree requires a second major in a non-business field, not only integrating the University’s emphasis on interdisciplinary study at the undergraduate level, but also positioning GWSB students to become informed global stewards. This degree program also allows non-business students to pursue a second major in finance.

Curriculum Information

Requirements for GWSB Students

  • GWSB Students must complete their General Education Requirements, Finance Major Requirements linked above, requirements of their second major (outside of GWSB), and Baccalaureate requirements as determined by the University and School (e.g., a minimum of 120 credits, residency requirements, etc).
  • GWSB students who wish to pursue a second major in SEAS must apply and be admitted to the second major program. These students must follow the same degree requirements (including general education requirements) as those earning a bachelor of science from SEAS.
  • Additionally, students whose first major leads to a B.S. degree must complete the B.S. curriculum for a second major if the second major offers both a B.A. and B.S. curriculum. For example, students whose primary degree and major is a B.S. in finance who want a second major in economics, chemistry, biology, or computer science, must complete the B.S. curriculum for these majors.
  • GWSB BSF Sample 4-Year Plan

Finance Major Requirements

Click here for a list of all Finance Major Requirements.

Requirements for Non-GWSB Students

Non-GWSB students must complete all general education & first major requirements in their home school, as well as the Finance Major requirements linked to above.

Application Components

  • Applications are due each year on February 15 at 11:59 p.m. EST.

  • Students who wish to pursue the BS degree with a major in finance or finance as a second major must apply and be admitted to this competitive program.

Required Materials

  • Before you begin the application, you should have the following items available for reference and/or upload.
  • Short Essay – In approximately 500 words, please explain why you are interested in pursuing a second major in Finance at the School of Business. Include how you feel this major aligns with your personal and professional goals beyond graduation.  If you are considering or are currently pursuing a major in International Affairs at the Elliott School of International Affairs (ESIA), your essay must be approximately 1,000 words.
  • Academic Plan – You must be able to demonstrate your ability to complete this degree within four years from the start of your undergraduate studies.  Complete the Blank Academic Plan on the GWSB Advising Website. Be sure to save the PDF form to your computer prior to creating and submitting your academic plan. If you are currently pursuing or are a considering a major offered through the Elliott School of International Affairs (ESIA), you must obtain a signature from advisors at ESIA and the School of Business (GWSB).
  • Resume – You must submit a resume highlighting your background, interests, and relevant experience. Please limit your resume to one page.

Application Review Process

The application materials will be reviewed by the Finance Department Chair, the Associate Dean For Undergraduate Programs, and the Executive Director Of Undergraduate Advising And Programs. Applicants will be informed of their application status before the Fall registration period (mid-April).

To be considered for admission to the B.S. Degree with a Major in Finance (GWSB students) or Finance as a Second Major (non-GWSB students) program, the ideal candidate should possess the following at the time of application:

  • a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA at GW;
  • at least two prerequisite courses completed at GW with a grade of B or higher. Please review the Curriculum Guide for a full list of prerequisite courses.
  • must be currently enrolled at GW in two additional prerequisites;
  • a strong essay connecting their two majors with their personal and professional goals beyond graduation (ESIA students and GWSB students considering a second major in International Affairs must have an essay that is approximately 1000 words);
  • a complete academic plan that outlines all requirements for both majors in proper sequence and completion of graduation requirements within four years of admission to GW; and
  • a complete resume.
    Please note: admission to this program is not guaranteed and is up to the discretion of the Finance Department Chair and Faculty.

Studying Finance in the BS vs. BBA
 

Finance Major, BS

Finance Concentration, BBA

Type of Study

Specialized: Provides a finance-focused and interdisciplinary education, targeting industries such as commercial banking, investment banking, money management, and insurance.

Broad: Provides analytical tools and conceptual frameworks to evaluate financial transactions and make financial decisions within firms.

Second Major Outside GWSB

Required

Optional

Minor Outside GWSB

Optional

Required

Option for Dual Concentration in GWSB

No

Yes

Study Abroad Possible?

Yes*

Yes*

Available to Non-GWSB Student?

Yes

No

# of Business Related Requirements  

5- 6 Signature Courses

11 Business Core Courses

# of Finance Courses

11 Major Courses

5 Field Courses

# of Elective Courses

Variable**

6 Elective Courses

Students interested in completing the BS in Finance program must apply and be admitted by the GWSB Finance Faculty.  It is recommended that students apply in the Spring semester of their Freshman year; however, upper-classmen are welcome to explore this degree program and should have a conversation with an advisor if they are interested in it. 

All GWSB Degrees (BAccy, BBA, BSF) will require that students complete a minimum of a 120 credits; earn a cumulative GPA of 2.0; and earn a major GPA of 2.0 in order to be eligible to graduate. 

* Please consult with a GWSB Advisor if interested in Study Abroad.

**Depending on the student’s second major outside of GWSB, there may or may not be the opportunity to take elective courses.