University of Michigan - Introduction to Finance

This course is primarily devoted to the fundamental principles of valuation. We will learn and apply the concepts of time value of money and risk to understand the major determinants of value creation. We will use both theory and real world examples to demonstrate how to value any asset.

About the Instructor

Gautam Kaul is the John C. and Sally S. Morley Professor of Finance at the Ross School of Business (RSB), University of Michigan. Gautam has published widely in top finance journals and was awarded the Senior Faculty Research Award in 2003 for sustained, exceptional, and continuing contributions to scholarly research in the field of business, and noteworthy contributions to building and maintaining a strong research environment at RSB. Gautam has similarly taught a wide array of courses ranging from Corporate Finance, Investment and Financial Institutions, to advanced courses like Finance and the Sustainable Enterprise. Gautam has won several teaching awards, including MBA Teaching Excellence Award in 1996, 2006, 2009 and 2011. Gautam was awarded the 2009 Victor L. Bernard Leadership in Teaching Award by the RSB faculty.

Course Syllabus:


Recommended Background
This is a tough issue. I do not believe in prerequisites, except for a sense of curiosity and an attitude. Having said that, exposure to economics (the mother discipline of finance), accounting (the language of business), and/or algebra and statistics (we all need it) will clearly help. I will however try and cover everything starting with fundamentals and will highlight when there is a need for you to do some further work in specific subjects. In fact, I hope the class will motivate you to learn more. I believe that learning usually happens when you are motivated by a curiosity to understand something.
Suggested Readings
See the detailed syllabus and watch a short video about the class.
Course Format
The class will consist of videos, broken up into bite-size pieces with their lengths varying based on the topic. Almost every video segment will have opportunities for you to assess your knowledge. You are strongly encouraged to take every opportunity to work on the problems/examples before you view my analysis. There will also be standalone assignments every week that are not part of videos, and a (not optional) final exam. Doing the assignments is the way you will learn the material.
FAQ
Will I get a certificate after completing this class?
Yes. Students who successfully complete the class will receive a certificate signed by the instructor.

What resources will I need for this class?
Please see detailed Syllabus and watch the recent video about the class.

What is the coolest thing I'll learn if I take this class?
How finance is all about life.