Spotlight on Majors: What Is Finance — and What Can You Do with It?

by Kate Hauser

What Is Finance — and What Can You Do with It?

If you’re interested in money, markets, and how businesses or individuals make financial decisions, a Finance major could be a great fit. Maybe you dream of managing investments, helping companies grow, or even starting your own business. Finance isn’t just about numbers,  it’s about understanding risk, strategy, and the decisions that shape the economy.

Finance programs attract students who are analytical, detail-oriented, and curious about how money works in the real world. But “finance” can mean different things depending on the program. Some focus on investments and banking, others on corporate finance or financial technology (fintech). Knowing the focus of each program helps you choose the right path.

What You’ll Study

Finance combines math, economics, and problem-solving with strategic thinking. Typical courses include:

  • Principles of Finance

  • Investments and Portfolio Management

  • Corporate Finance

  • Financial Accounting

  • Economics (Micro & Macro)

  • Risk Management and Insurance

  • Financial Markets and Institutions

  • Financial Technology (Fintech)

  • Business Ethics and Regulation

Some programs also explore data analysis, statistics, and financial modeling. Others may emphasize practical skills like case studies, simulations, or internships, giving you experience that employers value.

Different Types of Finance Programs

Universities offer Finance programs with different emphases:

  • Corporate Finance: Focus on managing a company’s finances, capital structure, and investments.

  • Investment & Banking: Learn how to analyze and manage investments, stocks, bonds, and portfolios.

  • Financial Technology (Fintech): Combines finance with programming, analytics, and innovation.

  • Personal Financial Planning: Prepares students to help individuals or families manage money, taxes, and retirement.

Some programs are part of a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) or Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), offering a broad business foundation alongside specialized finance courses.

Career Paths for Finance Majors

Finance graduates develop skills in analysis, decision-making, and strategy — valuable in many careers. Examples include:

  • Banking: investment banker, commercial banker, financial analyst

  • Corporate roles: financial manager, risk analyst, corporate strategist

  • Markets and trading: stockbroker, portfolio manager, hedge fund analyst

  • Consulting: business consultant or financial advisor

  • Entrepreneurship: managing your own business or start-up

Even if you don’t work in a traditional finance role, you’ll gain analytical skills and a strong understanding of business, both highly valued in any career.

The Job Market and Industry Trends

Finance is a dynamic field. In Canada and the U.S., demand for financial analysts and managers continues to grow, particularly in technology-driven areas like fintech. Companies need professionals who can interpret data, assess risk, and help guide decisions.

Sustainability and ethical investing are also on the rise, creating new opportunities in socially responsible finance.

How to Explore Finance in High School

  1. Take courses in math, economics, and business if your school offers them.

  2. Follow the stock market and financial news to understand how markets respond to events.

  3. Try budgeting or investing simulations to practice decision-making.

  4. Join school clubs like DECA, Junior Achievement, or investment clubs.

  5. Explore online programs or summer camps focused on business or finance.

Final Thoughts

Finance is more than money. It’s about strategy, problem-solving, and understanding how decisions affect people, businesses, and the economy. If you’re analytical, curious, and enjoy thinking about solutions, Finance might be the perfect major to help you turn those skills into a meaningful career.

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