UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — As more companies continue to rely on mass data sets to solve critical financial issues and guide important business decisions, professionals who can analyze complex data to support business ventures will be more in-demand.
Those interested in increasing their knowledge of quantitative data analysis and management to gain an edge in this competitive field can now do so through a new online credential from Penn State.
Applications are now being accepted for the Graduate Certificate in Financial Engineering, which is offered online through Penn State World Campus in partnership with the Penn State Behrend Black School of Business, an AACSB–accredited institution.
Students in the certificate program can learn to analyze data using econometric software for financial analysis and modeling, gauge financial risk, and apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.
“This certificate encompasses a broad and multidisciplinary field of study and practice that applies a technical approach and methodology to financial analysis and decisions,” said Jessica Zhao, the finance and economics department chair. “It consists of converting financial theories into practical applications in the financial world.”
The curriculum is nine credits and consists of three required courses. Econometric Analysis teaches the theoretical foundations of econometric analysis and strategies for applying methods to research. Derivative Securities teaches about the tools used in the management of financial risk. Financial Modeling teaches students to apply decision-making procedures to real-world problems and exposes students to various other financial topics.
The graduate certificate is ideal for professionals with backgrounds in business or statistics disciplines and those who have a fundamental background in finance and an interest in applications of quantitative skills.
Though the credential can be earned on a part-time basis in as little as 12 months, the completely asynchronous program allows students the flexibility to follow their own schedule.
Students who successfully complete the certificate can apply the credits earned to the financial engineering concentration of the Penn State Online MBA if they apply to the program and are accepted.
Those interested should apply by November 15 to enroll in the spring 2022 semester, which starts in January.
Learn more about the program on the Graduate Certificate in Financial Engineering website.