Finance and Data Science
The Bachelor of Science in Finance and Data Science is a four year interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with a strong foundation in financial principles, quantitative analysis, and data driven decision making. The curriculum emphasizes financial modeling, statistical analysis, programming skills, and data interpretation, enabling students to analyze complex financial systems and extract actionable insights from large datasets. Through lectures, lab exercises, and applied projects, students gain practical experience in financial analysis, data analytics, predictive modeling, and investment strategies, preparing them for careers at the intersection of finance and technology.
Students gain extensive experience in financial theory, econometrics, data analysis, programming, and predictive modeling, strengthening analytical thinking, quantitative proficiency, problem solving, and technical competence. The program combines core courses in finance, statistics, and computer science with electives that allow students to specialize in areas such as risk management, machine learning, financial technology, or big data analytics. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application, graduates acquire the skills necessary to pursue careers in banking, investment management, data analytics, or continue into graduate studies in finance, data science, or related fields.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Finance and Data Science
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, United States
- Field of Study: Finance
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 - Foundations in Finance and Data Science
- Introduction to Finance and Accounting
- Principles of Statistics and Probability
- Academic Writing and Research Skills
- Introduction to Programming and Data Analysis
Year 2 - Core Studies in Financial Analysis
- Corporate Finance and Financial Markets
- Econometrics and Statistical Modeling
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Elective Courses in Financial Technology or Analytics
Year 3 - Advanced Topics & Applied Data Science
- Predictive Analytics and Machine Learning
- Risk Management and Investment Strategies
- Big Data Applications in Finance
- Elective Courses in Specialized Finance or Data Science Areas
Year 4 - Capstone & Professional Preparation
- Senior Research Project in Finance and Data Science
- Advanced Seminar in Financial Analytics and Modeling
- Internship / Industry Placement
- Career Preparation and Professional Skills
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in finance, investment, data analytics, financial technology, and consulting. They often work as financial analysts, data scientists, investment analysts, risk managers, and quantitative researchers, applying financial knowledge, statistical modeling, and programming skills to evaluate markets, forecast trends, and support strategic decision making. Many graduates continue their studies in finance, data science, business analytics, or related graduate programs, leveraging their expertise to contribute to financial innovation, data driven strategy, and advanced research in both corporate and academic environments. The combination of analytical, technical, and financial skills ensures graduates are fully equipped to succeed in dynamic, technology driven workplaces where quantitative expertise is essential.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students seeking a comprehensive education in finance and data science that integrates quantitative analysis with financial decision making. It emphasizes financial modeling, data analytics, programming proficiency, and applied problem solving, preparing students for careers in investment management, banking, data analytics, and fintech. Students engage in financial modeling exercises, programming projects, data analysis, and internships, gaining practical experience alongside theoretical study. The four year curriculum allows in depth exploration of financial markets, statistical methods, computational techniques, and data driven strategies, ensuring graduates are fully prepared to contribute meaningfully to professional, analytical, and research environments that require expertise in finance and technology.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the graduate admissions office at:
Phone: 217-333-0035
Email: grad@illinois.edu
Address: The Graduate College, 507 East Green Street, Suite 101, MC-434, Champaign, IL 61820, United States
