College: Institute of Graduate Programs

This major focuses on the intersection of finance and technology, exploring how technological innovations are transforming financial services. Students gain skills in financial analysis, programming, data analytics, blockchain, and cybersecurity, preparing for careers in fintech, banking, investment, and related fields.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand financial principles and technological innovations.
• Develop skills in programming, data analysis, and financial modeling.
• Learn blockchain technology and fundamentals of cryptocurrencies.
• Explore cybersecurity principles and risk management in fintech.
• Analyze financial data and market trends using technological tools.
• Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical skills.

Main Curriculum:

1. Introduction to Fintech - Overview of fintech, industry trends, and technological disruptions in finance.
2. Financial Principles - Basics of finance, investments, and financial markets.
3. Programming in Finance - Python, R, and other programming languages for financial applications.
4. Data Analytics in Finance - Data mining, statistical analysis, and machine learning techniques.
5. Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies - Principles of blockchain, smart contracts, and cryptocurrency markets.
6. Financial Modeling - Building and analyzing financial models and simulations.
7. Cybersecurity in Fintech - Security protocols, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
8. Fintech Innovations and Entrepreneurship - Emerging technologies, startups, and innovation in financial services.
9. Practical/Applied Training - Real-world experiences in fintech companies, banks, or financial institutions.
10. Capstone Project - Comprehensive project applying skills in fintech, such as developing a financial app, conducting a market analysis, or creating a blockchain-based solution.

Assessment Methods:

• Financial analyses, programming projects, data analysis reports, blockchain and cryptocurrency studies, cybersecurity assessments, internship reports, capstone projects, group projects, and presentations.

Recommended Textbooks:

• "Introduction to Fintech" by various authors.
• "Financial Principles" by various authors.
• "Programming in Finance" by various authors.
• "Data Analysis in Finance" by various authors.
• "Blockchain Technology and Cryptocurrencies" by various authors.
• "Financial Modeling" by various authors.
• "Cybersecurity in Fintech" by various authors.
• "Innovations and Entrepreneurship in Fintech" by various authors.

Prerequisites:

Basic knowledge in finance, mathematics, and an interest in technology and programming.

Program Duration:

Typically 4 years to obtain a bachelor's degree.

Certification:

Graduates can obtain certifications from professional organizations like the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute, or equivalent FinTech certifications.

Target Audience:

Aspiring FinTech professionals, financial analysts, data scientists, blockchain developers, cybersecurity specialists, and entrepreneurs seeking careers in financial services, tech companies, consulting firms, and regulatory bodies. This major equips students with the skills necessary to excel in the dynamic field of FinTech, supporting careers in various fintech roles and innovation.