Finance: Think Like an Investor
Curious about the world of finance? In this course, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the financial industry, from economic foundations to investment strategies and financial analysis. You will explore the intricacies of private equity, learn how to evaluate market trends, and analyze real-world case studies. Plus, you’ll hear from industry experts with extensive experience in the field. Discover your potential in the financial world and prepare for your academic future.
Program Dates
Choose the course length that works for you: 2-week and 4-week sessions
Eligibility
For students ages 13 and up
Individual Course Fees
$1,795
Explore the World of Finance
Navigate the Financial Landscape
Gain an understanding of the financial world and its impact on the economy. Explore the role of financial markets, institutions, and key concepts like risk, return, and the time value of money.
Economic Foundations of Finance
Discover the economic forces that shape financial decision-making. Learn how supply and demand, market dynamics, and consumer behavior influence investment strategies.
Mastering Financial Statements
Gain the essential skill of interpreting financial statements. Analyze balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements to understand a company's financial health.
Investment Strategies and Analysis
Explore the diverse landscape of investment opportunities. Learn about different asset classes, risk management, and how to evaluate potential investments using tools like the time value of money.
Unlocking Private Equity
Uncover the intricacies of private equity, from deal sourcing and due diligence to value creation and exit strategies. Analyze a real-world case study to apply your knowledge.
Showcase Your Financial Expertise
Apply your cumulative knowledge to a real-world private equity case study. Analyze an investment opportunity, build financial projections, and present a strategic recommendation.
How You Will Benefit
- Learn the fundamentals of finance and their role in economic growth.
- Analyze financial statements, evaluate investments, and make informed decisions.
- Apply economic and financial principles to diverse investment strategies.
- Gain practical insights from experts and case studies to prepare for a finance career.
- Explore career paths in finance and investing while learning from real-world investors
- Complete a Final Capstone Project to demonstrate what you’ve learned.
- Earn a Certificate of Completion from Northwestern University.
Three Learning Advantages Designed for You
Final Capstone Project
This online course culminates in a Final Capstone Project that allows you to:
- Analyze a real-world private equity case, applying knowledge from all modules.
- Evaluate an investment opportunity, develop financial projections, and present a strategic investment recommendation.
Mentoring
You’ll receive guidance from a mentor who can support you and answer questions as you deepen your learning experience. You can expect:
- Expertise in each course’s particular field
- Encouragement and feedback on all assignments
- Inspiration, motivation, and confidence to help you succeed in your studies
Flexible Learning
- 100% online learning that works with your schedule.
- Flexible learning format through video lessons. Tune in anytime that works for you.
- 20-30 hours of total instruction and course work, including engaging multimedia, simulations, and curated assignments for which you will receive guidance and support from mentors.
Apply Now for the Next Available Course
Course Designed by Northwestern Faculty
Cory Sandrock, MBA
Adjunct Lecturer; Managing Director, Pareto & Company
Cory Sandrock is a Theatre graduate from Northwestern’s School of Communication and holds an MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business. He has extensive experience in capital markets, strategic planning, financial analyses, commercial real estate, and investment management. Sandrock is the Founder and Managing Director of Pareto & Company, and has previously worked for Northern Trust, The University of Chicago, UBS, and many other companies.
How To Apply:
It’s easy. No transcripts or letters of recommendation are required. Just provide some basic information and tell us why you wish to take this program.
Note: Please submit all application materials in English.
Begin the guided application process. It should take only a few minutes of your time to answer the questions.
Want to Know More?
Sign up for more information and we’ll be in touch.
Admissions
Our application process is easy. You can expect a prompt decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will you be graded? What are assignments like? How much time do you have to turn around a project? When do you find out if you're admitted? Find answers to your questions here.
Scholarships
We offer need-based scholarships for participating students who exhibit high potential and an inability to pay the full tuition.
- If you haven’t applied to the program, apply here. After submitting your application, click “Apply for a need-based scholarship” on the confirmation page to request a scholarship.
- If you’ve already applied to the program, sign in to your Profile to check your scholarship status. If we don’t have a scholarship request on file, click “Apply for a need-based scholarship” to request a scholarship.