This course introduces graduate students to the fundamentals of financial management and applied corporate finance decision-making. It begins with corporate finance foundations and financial statement and ratio analysis, then progresses through time value of money, discounted cash flow valuation, capital budgeting, and bond and stock valuation, before advancing to risk and return, the cost of capital, capital structure, and dividend policy. Each topic is introduced through a student-led chapter presentation, followed by instructor-led reinforcement activities such as problem-solving demonstrations and scenario comparisons. To support this process, the course provides students access to a dedicated AI-based learning tool, which students may use to clarify concepts, test their understanding, and refine their reasoning before and after each class to strengthen preparation and build confidence ahead of presentations and in-class discussion.
Light in-class gamification (e.g., short quizzes, quick polls, and mini-competitions built around each week's topic) is used throughout the semester to reinforce computational fluency and keep repeated practice engaging rather than repetitive. From time to time, class may also conclude with a brief student mini-presentation connecting course concepts to current financial news or real-world applications, broadening opportunities for participation and reinforcing the practical relevance of the material.
Learning activities include lectures during the introductory weeks, chapter presentations, in-class gamified activities, quizzes, a midterm exam, and a final project in which students apply the course's analytical tools to a real, publicly listed company. To support student learning, the instructor may adjust the pace and content as needed.