We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Xi Yang
In the Introduction to Finance I: The Basics course, you will be introduced to the basic concepts needed to understand the financial manager’s decision-making process. To achieve that, you will learn about the basic forms a business can take and the goal of the financial manager. You will also learn the fundamentals of financial statements and how to measure a company’s financial health using financial ratios. In addition, you will explore how to allocate capital across time to create value. After learning the course, you should be familiar with major topics in modern finance and communicate with others within and outside of the business world. With a deep understanding of the financial side of the business, you will be in a better position to make informed decisions and plan for the financial future.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/wl8jlt/introduction
Two deals to help you save
Save money when you learn. Here are two deals and offers that may be relevant to this course.
All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.
Valid until July 14
Coursera Plus Annual
Work toward what's next for your career with access to 10,000+ programs. Discover emerging skills and save.
Up to
40%
off
Get offer
Valid until August 30
Google AI App Builder
Learn how to use Gemini API and API Studio with a three-course series from Google DeepMind
Take
100%
off
Get offer
What's inside
Syllabus
Course Orientation
Module 1: Introduction to Finance
In this module, you will be introduced to three basic forms to organize a business based on the nature of the business and its financing needs. Examining the goal of financial business helps us to develop a concrete framework to evaluate a corporate manager’s financial decisions. The corporation organization form is widespread because it can solve problems facing big business, but it also incurs the agency cost. You will also learn about some strategies companies are using to mitigate the agency problem.
Read more
Syllabus
Course Orientation
Module 1: Introduction to Finance
In this module, you will be introduced to three basic forms to organize a business based on the nature of the business and its financing needs. Examining the goal of financial business helps us to develop a concrete framework to evaluate a corporate manager’s financial decisions. The corporation organization form is widespread because it can solve problems facing big business, but it also incurs the agency cost. You will also learn about some strategies companies are using to mitigate the agency problem.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Covers common business financing structures, agency problems, and strategies to reduce agency costs
Develops the basics of financial statements that are useful in personal, business, and academic contexts
Provides foundational knowledge of the time value of money, present value, future value, and net present value
Requires financial knowledge or experience to complete successfully
Students should have basic mathematical knowledge to grasp the concepts taught in the course
The course does not require previous finance or accounting coursework
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save
Save
Reviews summary
Clear financial basics for beginners
According to students, 'Introduction to Finance: The Basics' offers a largely positive learning experience, particularly for absolute beginners in finance. Learners consistently praise the clarity and simplicity with which complex financial concepts like time value of money, financial statements, and ratios are explained. The instructor is often highlighted as phenomenal and engaging, effectively demystifying finance. While providing a solid foundational understanding, some advanced learners found the course too basic, indicating it's best suited for those with no prior knowledge seeking a comprehensive initial overview.
Provides a strong base, ideal for those entirely new to finance.
"This course truly lives up to its name – 'The Basics' are covered thoroughly and in an understandable way."
"A solid foundation for anyone new to finance. The concepts were well-organized, and the quizzes helped reinforce learning."
"Perfect for a total beginner! I finally understand how to read a balance sheet and income statement."
"It definitely sets you up for more advanced courses. The instructor's pace was good."
Explanations are exceptionally clear, simplifying complex financial ideas.
"This course was an excellent introduction to finance. The instructor explained complex topics like time value of money very clearly."
"Absolutely fantastic! As someone with no prior finance background, this course demystified so many concepts."
"The instructor is phenomenal, simplifying complex ideas without losing their essence. I feel much more confident in my financial literacy now."
"I finally understand how to read a balance sheet and income statement. The financial ratios explanation was super helpful. The instructor made it seem simple."
Some desire more real-world applications and interactive exercises.
"I found some explanations a bit dry and theoretical. While it does cover the basics, I was hoping for more practical application examples rather than just definitions."
"I think the course could benefit from updated real-world case studies, as some examples felt a bit dated."
"While the course provides a decent overview, I found the lack of interactive exercises or more challenging problems limiting."
Lacks sufficient depth for learners with existing financial knowledge.
"I came into this course with some prior knowledge, hoping to refresh and deepen my understanding. Unfortunately, it was too basic for me."
"The content felt superficial and didn't offer enough depth for anyone beyond a complete novice."
"My only minor critique is that some parts could have gone a bit deeper, but then again, it's 'The Basics'."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Introduction to Finance: The Basics with these
activities:
Review: Financial Management and Risk Management by Mike Berry
Show steps
Expand knowledge through additional course materials and insights.
View
Digital Marketing Fundamentals: From Strategy...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the designated textbook chapters.
-
Summarize key theories and concepts presented in each chapter.
-
Identify areas that need further research or clarification.
Review: Options, Futures, and Derivatives, 10th Edition by John C. Hull
Show steps
Get a head start on course materials by reading key literature.
View
Options, Futures, and Other Derivatives 11th...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read chapter 1-4
-
Take notes during reading, including key concepts, theories, and examples
Watch video tutorials on financial modeling using Excel
Show steps
Utilize video demonstrations to enhance practical skills in financial modeling.
Browse courses on
Financial Modeling
Show steps
-
Identify reputable video tutorials on financial modeling using Excel.
-
Watch the tutorials and take notes on key concepts and techniques.
-
Practice applying the techniques learned in the tutorials.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Solve practice problems on financial ratios and time value of money
Show steps
Strengthen understanding of these concepts through repetitive exercises.
Browse courses on
Financial Ratios
Show steps
-
Access online or textbook practice problems.
-
Attempt to solve the problems independently.
-
Review solutions and identify areas for improvement.
Write a blog post about the time value of money
Show steps
Demonstrate understanding of time value of money and develop content creation skills.
Browse courses on
Time Value of Money
Show steps
-
Research and gather information about the time value of money.
-
Write a blog post that clearly explains the concept, including examples and calculations.
-
Proofread and edit the blog post for clarity and accuracy.
Design a financial plan for a personal or professional goal
Show steps
Apply course learnings to real-world scenarios and develop financial planning skills.
Browse courses on
Financial Planning
Show steps
-
Identify a specific financial goal and gather relevant financial information.
-
Research and analyze different financial planning strategies.
-
Design a comprehensive financial plan that outlines the steps to achieve the financial goal.
-
Present the financial plan and discuss the rationale behind the strategies.
Create a financial model for a small business
Show steps
Develop practical skills and strengthen theoretical knowledge in constructing financial models.
Browse courses on
Financial Modeling
Show steps
-
Identify and gather necessary financial data
-
Construct a financial model using Excel or other financial modeling software
-
Analyze the financial model and generate insights
-
Present the financial model and findings
Volunteer at a financial literacy organization
Show steps
Develop interpersonal skills while reinforcing course learnings through teaching others.
Browse courses on
Financial Literacy
Show steps
-
Research and identify financial literacy organizations in the local community.
-
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
-
Attend volunteer training and prepare to teach financial literacy concepts to diverse audiences.
-
Participate in volunteer activities and share financial knowledge with the community.
Review: Financial Management and Risk Management by Mike Berry
Show steps
Expand knowledge through additional course materials and insights.
View
Digital Marketing Fundamentals: From Strategy...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the designated textbook chapters.
- Summarize key theories and concepts presented in each chapter.
- Identify areas that need further research or clarification.
Review: Options, Futures, and Derivatives, 10th Edition by John C. Hull
Show steps
Get a head start on course materials by reading key literature.
View
Options, Futures, and Other Derivatives 11th...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read chapter 1-4
- Take notes during reading, including key concepts, theories, and examples
Watch video tutorials on financial modeling using Excel
Show steps
Utilize video demonstrations to enhance practical skills in financial modeling.
Browse courses on
Financial Modeling
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify reputable video tutorials on financial modeling using Excel.
- Watch the tutorials and take notes on key concepts and techniques.
- Practice applying the techniques learned in the tutorials.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Solve practice problems on financial ratios and time value of money
Show steps
Strengthen understanding of these concepts through repetitive exercises.
Browse courses on
Financial Ratios
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Access online or textbook practice problems.
- Attempt to solve the problems independently.
- Review solutions and identify areas for improvement.
Write a blog post about the time value of money
Show steps
Demonstrate understanding of time value of money and develop content creation skills.
Browse courses on
Time Value of Money
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and gather information about the time value of money.
- Write a blog post that clearly explains the concept, including examples and calculations.
- Proofread and edit the blog post for clarity and accuracy.
Design a financial plan for a personal or professional goal
Show steps
Apply course learnings to real-world scenarios and develop financial planning skills.
Browse courses on
Financial Planning
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a specific financial goal and gather relevant financial information.
- Research and analyze different financial planning strategies.
- Design a comprehensive financial plan that outlines the steps to achieve the financial goal.
- Present the financial plan and discuss the rationale behind the strategies.
Create a financial model for a small business
Show steps
Develop practical skills and strengthen theoretical knowledge in constructing financial models.
Browse courses on
Financial Modeling
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and gather necessary financial data
- Construct a financial model using Excel or other financial modeling software
- Analyze the financial model and generate insights
- Present the financial model and findings
Volunteer at a financial literacy organization
Show steps
Develop interpersonal skills while reinforcing course learnings through teaching others.
Browse courses on
Financial Literacy
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify financial literacy organizations in the local community.
- Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
- Attend volunteer training and prepare to teach financial literacy concepts to diverse audiences.
- Participate in volunteer activities and share financial knowledge with the community.
Career center
Learners who complete Introduction to Finance: The Basics will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts study the performance of companies through financial modeling and other techniques. They then make recommendations to maximize returns for investors. This course may be útil for financial analysts, as it helps build a foundation in financial ratio analysis, which is an essential skill for evaluating a company's financial health.
Investment Banker
Investment Banker
Investment bankers help companies raise capital and advise on mergers and acquisitions. This course may be useful for investment bankers, as it covers financial statement analysis and the time value of money, both of which are important concepts in investment banking.
Portfolio Manager
Portfolio Manager
Portfolio managers oversee investments for individuals and institutions. This course may be useful for portfolio managers because it provides an introduction to financial statement analysis, which is used to assess the financial health of companies.
Financial Planner
Financial Planner
Financial planners help individuals and families manage their finances. This course may be useful for financial planners because it provides an introduction to financial statement analysis and the time value of money, which are both important concepts for financial planning.
Commercial Lender
Commercial Lender
Commercial lenders evaluate and approve loans for businesses. This course may be useful for commercial lenders, as it provides an introduction to financial statement analysis, which is used to assess the financial health of companies.
Insurance Underwriter
Insurance Underwriter
Insurance underwriters assess risk and determine insurance premiums. This course may be useful for insurance underwriters, as it provides an introduction to financial statement analysis, which is used to assess the financial health of companies.
Auditor
Auditor
Auditors examine financial records to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations. This course may be useful for auditors, as it provides a foundation in financial statement analysis.
Tax Accountant
Tax Accountant
Tax accountants prepare and file tax returns. This course may be useful for tax accountants as it provides an introduction to financial statement analysis, which is used to assess the financial health of companies.
Financial Advisor
Financial Advisor
Financial advisors help clients manage their investments and finances. This course may be useful for financial advisors, as it provides an introduction to financial statement analysis, which is used to assess the financial health of companies.
Budget Analyst
Budget Analyst
Budget analysts create and manage budgets for organizations. This course may be useful for budget analysts, as it provides an introduction to financial statement analysis, which is used to assess the financial health of organizations.
Cost Accountant
Cost Accountant
Cost accountants analyze and report on the costs of goods and services. This course may be useful for cost accountants, as it provides an introduction to financial statement analysis, which is used to assess the financial health of organizations.
Forensic Accountant
Forensic Accountant
Forensic accountants investigate financial crimes. This course may be useful for forensic accountants, as it provides an introduction to financial statement analysis, which is used to assess the financial health of organizations.
Management Consultant
Management Consultant
Management consultants provide advice to businesses on how to improve their operations. This course may be of some use to management consultants as it provides an introduction to financial statement analysis, which is one of the tools used by management consultants to assess the financial health of organizations.
Actuary
Actuary
Actuaries use mathematics and statistics to assess risk and uncertainty. This course may be of some use to actuaries as it provides an introduction to financial statement analysis, which is used to assess the financial health of insurance companies.
Economist
Economist
Economists study the economy and its effects on businesses and individuals. This course may be of some use to economists as it provides an introduction to financial statement analysis, which is used to assess the financial health of companies.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/wl8jlt/introduction
Featured in The Course Notes
This course is mentioned in our blog,
The Course Notes. Read
one article that features
Introduction to Finance: The Basics:
To read more articles from OpenCourser, visit:
OpenCourser.com/notes
Reading list
We've selected 13 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Introduction to Finance: The Basics.
Comprehensively covers the basic concepts of corporate finance and is perfect as an additional reference or textbook.
This seminal work on security analysis must-read for those seeking a deep understanding of the subject.
Classic introduction to corporate finance and an excellent primary or supplementary textbook.
This highly acclaimed classic provides valuable insights into value investing and is recommended for additional reading and reference.
Thoroughly introduces various aspects of advanced financial management and is recommended for additional in-depth study.
This textbook is widely used in academic institutions and provides a comprehensive foundation in financial management.
This comprehensive textbook thoroughly introduces corporate finance concepts, making it an excellent reference or primary textbook.
Standard reference for investment theory and practice and is suitable for students seeking additional knowledge in this area.
This introductory textbook clearly presents essential financial management principles, making it a helpful reference or primary textbook.
Offers a detailed exploration of options, futures, and derivatives, making it a valuable resource for those seeking in-depth understanding.
Thoroughly examines financial statement analysis and valuable resource for students seeking advanced knowledge.
Offers an advanced exploration of financial management and is recommended for students seeking in-depth knowledge.
Provides a comprehensive overview of financial risk management and is suitable for students seeking advanced knowledge.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/wl8jlt/introduction
Share
Similar courses
Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Instructor
Xi Yang
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
Svenska
Pусский
Türkçe
Polski
Ελληνικά
українська мова
magyar nyelv
Bahasa Indonesia
ไทย
қазақша
اُردُو,
فارسی
বাংলা
tiếng Việt
پښتو
آذربایجان دیلی
Featured in The Course Notes
Read
one article that features
this course,
Introduction to Finance: The Basics
from our blog, The Course Notes:
To read more articles from OpenCourser, visit:
OpenCourser.com/notes
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser