Mission Statement

In alignment with Denison’s mission, the Finance major fosters student development as active citizens acting with moral discernment by embedding humanistic and ethical dimensions into the study of finance. The program highlights the evolving role of finance within historical and sociological contexts, encouraging students to understand finance not merely as a technical field, but as an institution that interacts with systems of power, equity, and sustainability. The Finance major embraces the liberal arts in content, curriculum, and pedagogy incorporating opportunities for collaborative inquiry, experiential learning, and exploring integrative approaches. Students will grapple with questions of human welfare, sustainability, and trade-offs in financial decisions—preparing them to think beyond profit and assess the social impact of their choices.

As an integral part of the Economics Department, the Finance Major provides a rigorous foundation in financial principles while embracing the broader economic and interdisciplinary perspectives of a liberal arts education. Recognizing that finance is deeply rooted in history and society, the program integrates financial theory with policy-oriented approaches, critical thinking, and ethical reasoning. Through a curriculum that combines finance, economics, and mathematics, we help students develop into well-rounded professionals who approach financial decision-making with both technical expertise and intellectual depth. Committed to fostering analytical excellence and social responsibility, the program empowers Finance majors to make a meaningful impact in the financial industry and society.