What is a Financial Technology (FinTech) Major?

In an era where technology underpins every aspect of the financial industry, from online banking to algorithmic trading, the demand for professionals equipped with both financial acumen and technical prowess has never been higher. The Financial Technology (FinTech) major at Elon University is designed to bridge this gap, offering a comprehensive education that integrates financial theory with cutting-edge technology. Our curriculum prepares students for the evolving landscape of finance, where digital currencies, blockchain, and big data analytics play a pivotal role in decision-making and strategy.

The FinTech landscape is rapidly transforming the way we think about money, banking, and financial services. Innovations such as peer-to-peer lending, mobile payments, and cryptocurrencies are not just disrupting traditional banking; they’re rewriting the rules. As a result, there’s a burgeoning demand for professionals who not only understand financial principles but can also leverage technology to drive innovation and efficiency.

Why Major in Financial Technology?

  • Interdisciplinary Expertise: Gain a solid foundation in finance while mastering the technological tools that are transforming the industry, from blockchain to artificial intelligence.
  • Career Opportunities: Step into a high-demand field where finance and technology intersect. The FinTech sector is experiencing explosive growth, offering diverse career paths in both startups and established financial institutions.
  • Innovative Problem-Solving: Learn to apply technological solutions to financial problems, making financial services more accessible, faster, and secure.
  • Future-Ready Skills: Equip yourself with the skills to navigate the future of finance, including digital currencies, payment technologies, and automated investment platforms.

Curriculum Overview

The FinTech major offers a curriculum that balances foundational finance courses with specialized classes in emerging financial technologies. Here’s a glimpse into the structure:

Core Requirements:

  • Mathematics: Choose between Applied Calculus and Calculus I to build your quantitative analysis skills.
  • Principles of Accounting, Economics, and Finance: Understand the backbone of financial theory and decision-making.
  • Management Information Systems and Strategic Management: Grasp the essentials of information systems and strategic planning in the business context.
  • Blockchain and Emerging Financial Technologies: Dive deep into the technology reshaping the financial sector.
    Data Analysis in Finance: Learn to interpret complex financial data to make informed decisions.
    Foundations of Business Analytics: Acquire the skills to analyze and leverage data across business functions.
  • Choose from a variety of electives to tailor your education to your interests, including courses in Data Visualization, Mobile App Development, and Global Political Economy, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of how technology intersects with finance on a global scale.

Program Outcomes

Graduates of the FinTech major will:

  • Understand Financial Markets: Gain a deep understanding of how financial markets operate and how technology is used to drive efficiency and innovation.
  • Tech-Savvy Finance Professionals: Emerge as professionals skilled in utilizing the latest technologies, from blockchain to AI, in financial applications.
  • Innovative Thinkers: Be prepared to innovate and lead in the FinTech sector, leveraging technology to solve complex financial challenges.
  • Data-Driven Decision Makers: Master the art of using data to inform financial strategies and decisions.

Financial Technology Requirements & Courses

Joining the FinTech Revolution

Learn why you should join the FinTech Major from our students and professors.