New Business Degrees Prepare Students for In-Demand Financial Roles
Thursday, October 16, 2025
Assistant Dean and Instructor of Finance Mark Schild works with students in the Trading Room, a hands-on learning environment for business students.
The Stillman School of Business is expanding its undergraduate offerings with the addition of two new undergraduate majors: Forensic Accounting and Wealth Management. Both programs were created in response to industry demand for graduates who are prepared to step into fast-growing, specialized roles in the financial sector.
“These new programs reflect Seton Hall’s focus on innovation and preparing students for meaningful careers,” said Joyce Strawser, Ph.D., Stillman School dean and Associate professor of accounting and taxation. “Forensic accounting and wealth management are fields where the need for ethical leaders is especially critical, and our students will be ready to make a difference.”
The new Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (B.S.B.A.) in Forensic Accounting blends coursework in accounting, business analytics and criminal justice. Students learn how to investigate financial fraud, analyze records and support legal proceedings.
Courses cover topics such as forensic accounting, criminal procedure and evidence, business intelligence and federal taxation. Graduates will be positioned for careers in public accounting firms, corporations, government agencies and law enforcement.
The program also prepares students to pursue the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) credential, which can lead to increased career opportunities and higher earning potential.
“With fraud and financial crime becoming more complex, organizations are seeking professionals who can uncover irregularities and help safeguard assets,” said Mark Holtzman, C.P.A., Ph.D., chair and associate professor, department of accounting and taxation. “Our graduates will be uniquely prepared to serve both the business community and the public interest.”
The Stillman School is AACSB accredited in both business and accounting — an achievement
earned by less than one percent of business schools worldwide.
The Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (B.S.B.A.) in Wealth Management takes a comprehensive approach to preparing students for careers in personal financial
advising, investment planning, and financial consulting. A hallmark of the program
is its focus on behavioral finance, teaching students to understand client decision-making
and build trust-based relationships.
Students in the program will gain practical experience through internships, financial labs, and volunteer opportunities, including the IRS-sponsored Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. They will also earn industry credentials such as the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) and Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC) certifications. Graduates will be eligible to sit for the Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®) exam.
“Our wealth management program is designed to go beyond technical knowledge,” said Stillman’s Associate Dean for Student Success and Instructor of Finance Mark Schild, M.B.A. “We want students to be able to provide trusted guidance to clients, addressing not only investments but the broader financial challenges people face throughout their lives.”
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for financial advisors are projected to grow 17 percent by 2033. Forensic accounting also continues to be one of the most in-demand specialties in the profession.
“These majors are the latest examples of how Seton Hall prepares students for success,” Dean Strawser said. “Through the benefit of rigorous academics, hands-on learning and strong industry connections, our graduates are ready to lead and thrive in some of the most important and fastest-growing areas of business.”
