Finance at Hanken School of Economics

Hanken School of Economics, located in Helsinki and Vaasa, Finland, offers a robust and internationally recognized finance program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the dynamic world of finance. The program emphasizes both theoretical rigor and practical application, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers in the financial sector.

Degree Programs

Hanken offers finance specializations within its Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs. At the Bachelor’s level, students gain a foundational understanding of core finance concepts, including corporate finance, investment management, and financial markets. The Master’s program allows for deeper specialization, with tracks often covering areas such as:

• Corporate Finance: Focusing on financial decision-making within firms, including capital budgeting, mergers and acquisitions, and risk management.
• Investment Management: Covering portfolio construction, asset pricing models, and alternative investments.
• Financial Economics: Exploring the theoretical underpinnings of financial markets and institutions.

Curriculum and Teaching

The finance curriculum at Hanken is continually updated to reflect the latest developments in the field. Courses are taught by experienced faculty members, many of whom are actively involved in cutting-edge research. The teaching methods blend lectures, seminars, case studies, and simulations, providing students with a comprehensive learning experience. A strong emphasis is placed on critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Research

Hanken’s finance faculty actively contribute to scholarly research, publishing in leading academic journals. Research areas include, but are not limited to:

• Behavioral Finance: Investigating the psychological biases that influence investor behavior.
• Sustainable Finance: Exploring the integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into financial decision-making.
• Financial Econometrics: Developing and applying statistical methods to analyze financial data.

Students are encouraged to participate in research projects and collaborate with faculty members, providing valuable opportunities to develop their research skills.

Career Prospects

Graduates of Hanken’s finance program are highly sought after by employers in a variety of sectors, including:

• Investment Banking
• Asset Management
• Commercial Banking
• Consulting
• Financial Analysis

Hanken’s strong reputation and extensive alumni network provide graduates with excellent career opportunities both in Finland and internationally. The school also offers career services, including workshops, networking events, and internship opportunities, to help students launch their careers.

International Opportunities

Hanken emphasizes international exposure and offers students numerous opportunities to study abroad at partner universities around the world. These experiences broaden students’ perspectives and enhance their cross-cultural communication skills, making them more competitive in the global job market.