Explore the principles and practices of banking and credit in the United States. Learn about the major functions of banks and other depository institutions, in-house operations and procedures, central banking through the Federal Reserve System and modern trends in the banking industry. Examine credit functions and operations including credit risk evaluation, loan creation and debt collection. Then, examine two sectors of the financial services industry from the perspectives of the consumer and the industry specialist. You will receive an overview of front and back office operations in both the securities and insurance industries, examine career paths in both areas, and gain insight into the current issues faced by the industry. Through a study of the structure of brokerage firms, the trading process, credit and margin practices, automated processes, and government regulations, you will gain an understanding of how a securities firm services its customers and plays an important role in our economy. You will also examine the impact technology has on these finance sectors and on evaluating career paths available in each area. You will develop the skills and attitudes necessary for success in both post-secondary education and the business workplace.

Prerequisite: Successful completion or concurrently with Accounting 1.

Explore two major topics in the world of finance: International Finance and Financial Planning. In the first half of this course you will explore major components of the international financial system. Included are the study of foreign trade, international monetary systems, foreign exchange rates and markets, international financial markets, international banking, and the multinational corporation. The second half of the course will introduce you to the financial planning process and the components of a comprehensive financial plan. You will learn how to prepare a financial plan that includes saving, investing, borrowing, risk management (insurance), and retirement and estate planning.