BS Finance | Assessment of Learning

Core Learning Goals & Objectives

Program Goal #1:  Cash Flows, Risk and Value - Possess knowledge concerning cash flow, risk and value in finance in various contexts and be able to apply financial models concerning them.   

  1. Be able to compute risk measures for financial securities (e.g., bonds and stocks).
  2. Be able to conduct analysis on risk-related issues (e.g., compute risk-adjusted performance measures).
  3. Be able to evaluate financial securities using cash flow-based valuation models.

Program Goal #2:  Use of Financial Technology in Analyzing Data: Students demonstrate the ability to use Excel or other contemporary software applications to analyze given data sets.  

  1. Ability to apply technology in analyzing financial statements and in developing financial projections and forecasts.
  2. Ability to communicate results of analysis so they may be used in decision-making.

Outcomes Data

We have compiled data to assess competency objectives through our BS Finance program courses, These course serves as a comprehensive tool for evaluating progress toward our key objectives and AACSB accreditation standards, as it is a mandatory requirement for all undergraduate students. We have outlined various assessment methods across different areas of the course, which allow us to collect data and measure performance against established benchmarks.

See program outcomes data here: BS Finance Program

Closing the Loop & Continuous Improvement

When program objective assessments are submitted, the submission form includes a section for a "closing the loop" discussion. This allows for reflection on potential adjustments that could be made to enhance the ongoing improvement of the BS Finance program. These discussions, along with other efforts, have highlighted areas where changes could be implemented.

Student performance

  • Curriculum Standardization: Based on assessment and UCC feedback, common assignments and a unified textbook were implemented across core courses, maintaining flexibility for supplemental materials.
  • Networking Events: The inaugural "Speed Networking and Social Hour" in Spring 2023 connected students with finance alumni across various roles. A follow-up “Traveling Tiger” trip allowed students to explore firms in Spring 2024, with plans for continuation.

Potential changes to assessment methods

  • Bloomberg Terminal Certification: Advisory Board recommendations led to required Bloomberg Market Concept certification for all finance students, providing essential skills for market data analysis. The Board and alumni provided funding to acquire the terminals.
  • Program Goal 5: Cash Flows, Risks, and Value: To address underperformance in this area, the CAPM model and market risk content in FINC 362 were expanded. The goal was reassessed in the following cycle and achieved the target score. FINC 352 was also designated as a writing-intensive course to strengthen students' ability to analyze and communicate risk.