Beyond the Classroom
Our commitment to experiential learning is evident in our strong industry connections, corporate collaborations, and student-led organizations, providing hands-on opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in practical settings.
At the undergraduate level, students develop a solid foundation in financial theories, decision-making models, and advanced analytics, while our PhD program fosters world-class research skills, preparing scholars for impactful academic careers.
STUDENT SUCCESS STORY
"Coming into college as a first-generation student, I did not always know where to turn for guidance. The mentorship and support within the Finance Department has been instrumental for me. From professors who encouraged me to take on leadership roles to alumni who took the time to share their experiences, I have learned that success is not just about what you know, but rather about the people who believe in you along the way. The Finance program at Virginia Tech has given me the confidence to carve my own path, and I will always be grateful for the community that helped me get here."
Alessia Ucci, Senior, FCFM
"What really sets the Finance Department at Virginia Tech apart is the people. The faculty has fantastic connections across the industry and are enthusiastic about helping each student discover a career path that is right for them. The culture of the student community is unparalleled, differentiated by hard work and an excitement about their studies and professional development."
Ben Eckerson, Senior, FCFA
"The Finance Department at Virginia Tech has provided me with invaluable hands-on learning experiences, faculty mentorship, and real-world applications that have prepared me not just for my first job, but for a lifelong career in finance. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities and support that have shaped my personal and professional development."
Kennedy Kabance, Senior, Finance, Minor - International Business
"Studying FinTech & Big Data Analytics has given me an incredible opportunity to push my boundaries both in the classroom and through real-world applications. The faculty, organizations, and fellow students at Pamplin create an inspiring environment, and I couldn’t be more grateful for my experience."
Adam Bridges, Junior, FinTech and Big Data Analytics
"The Finance Department at Virginia Tech has provided me with opportunities that have sparked both personal and professional growth over the past three years. What has stood out most through my time at Virginia Tech is the support and sense of community within the Department of Finance. Whether it is from fellow students or faculty, there’s always a willingness to collaborate, lend a helping hand, and go the extra mile for one another."
Adam Taylor, Senior, Financial Planning and Wealth Management
FINSAC
Our student-led, student-driven organization, FINSAC, is made up of representatives from across the general student body, transfer students, and members of each finance student organization within the Pamplin College of Business.
FINSAC holds monthly collaborative meetings with faculty, department-wide events, and executes on action items developed by members, other finance students, and faculty in the Finance Department.
This council serves as a vital bridge between students and the Finance Department faculty, allowing for direct student feedback and fostering meaningful discussions aimed at enhancing our curriculum, resources, and overall student experience. FINSAC plays a crucial role in addressing student concerns, proposing improvements, and facilitating engagement between faculty, administrators, alumni, and the student body.
INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS
The Pamplin College of Business provides many international opportunities for its students. It offers several faculty-led study-abroad programs and supports exchange and internship programs around the world.
Studying abroad provides a variety of opportunities for you to learn, live and travel in another country or region of the world.
- Travel with VT faculty to exotic destinations in Europe and Latin America.
- Take VT or other university courses at an overseas campus.
- Study at another university through an exchange program. Take classes in English and the local language alongside other international students.
- Attend another university and gain internship experience while taking regular classes.
Pamplin also offers Global Minors, such as the International Business Minor and the Pathways Minor in Global Business Practices to Improve the Human Condition, designed to equip students with the skills to navigate and address challenges in international business environments.
INDEPENDENT STUDY
There are two types of Independent Studies for Finance majors.
INTERNSHIP INDEPENDENT STUDY (I.S.)
An Internship Independent Study (I.S.) is the most common form. This can be done when an internship requires a student to receive credit in order to be granted the internship. In order to receive I.S. credit, a student must provide the department the following before the start of the internship:
- An offer letter of employment/internship
- A description of the internship
- A completed Independent Study form
In order to receive credit for the I.S. the student must provide:
- A letter of successful completion of the Internship
- A 5 to 7 page report detailing what was learned during the Internship
The I.S. will be 1 credit, pass/fail, and will only count as a free elective.
KNOWLEDGE - BASED INDEPENDENT STUDY
The second type of Independent Study is to further a student's knowledge in a particular area. This type is rare. Usually it will be counted as 1 credit, though depending on the depth of the work involved, may be approved for 3 credits. To do this type of Independent Study, the student must find a professor willing to work with them, and then fill out the Independent Study Form.