FNCE 470/SIFE 300: Practicum and Research in Security Markets

Looking for that perfect elective? Look no more. Now in its third year, the College of Business and Administration will be offering Finance 470/SIFE 300: Practicum and Research in Security Markets. This is a hands on learning lab for students interested in managing an active portfolio of stocks and other securities.

In 2005, the College of Business at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs entered into an agreement with the brokerage firm D.A. Davidson. Each year, D.A. Davidson provides students enrolled in Finance 470 with $50,000 to actively invest and manage in the U.S. stock market. UCCS is one of twenty colleges and universities in the United States selected to participate in the D.A. Davidson investment program.

In order to manage this portfolio over the academic year, students enroll in Finance 470/SIFE 300 for the entire academic year (in both the fall and spring semesters). Students actively participate in stock selection and portfolio construction. Working closely with an investment professional, students learn about accepted portfolio theory and stock selection strategies. The portfolio starts each year at $50,000. Portfolio profits over the course of the year in excess of the $50,000 are split between D.A. Davidson and the College.

This program gives student the opportunity to analyze stocks like the pros do, develop their financial analysis skills and try different strategies and theories, all in a live portfolio setting.

This course is particularly well-suited for business, economics and other majors interested in learning more about stock selection and portfolio construction. The course is open to all university juniors or seniors. There are no prerequisites, but students should be at least somewhat familiar with stocks, bonds, and how the economy works. Admission to the class is by application only. Email Kathleen Thompson at kthomps3@uccs.edu to request an application form.

Students who complete the class successfully are eligible for an internship with D.A. Davidson the summer following successful completion of the course.