FAQs

Do I have to be a Finance major to join RGIP?

Those who apply for the RGIP program do not need to be a finance major, however students must hold at least a 3.0 GPA to be considered and have to have taken FINA 320 (Investments) to be considered.

How much of a time commitment is RGIP?

The RGIP program is a top investment program in the country, crafting some of the brightest and most elite students. Those enrolled in the program should expect to contribute a greater amount of out-of-classroom time to their work than most other courses. Conducting equity research and staying up to date with market news is a task that requires around-the-clock attention. Hours spent each week will vary throughout the semester depending on report deadlines and projects assigned. One week may require more hours, while another week may require fewer. Students should anticipate and be prepared to effectively manage their time while enrolled in the program. The average amount of hours students spend each week is approximately 20 hours.

Can I be in RGIP as a student-athlete?

RGIP is welcome for all students, including student-athletes. The program has enrolled multiple athletes each year, including athletes who participate in football, tennis, soccer, cross-country, basketball and more.

What leadership positions are available in the program?

There are multiple leadership positions available in the RGIP program. Students have the opportunity to earn a position as one of the following position:

Chief Investment Officer
Growth Portoflio Manager
Value Portfolio Manager
Fixed-Income Portfolio Manager
Risk/Compliance Officer
Investor Relations Officer
Alternate Trustee
Lead Sector Analyst

Students elected in these positions are held to a higher standard and are expected to contribute as leaders and mentors of the program.

What is the CFA?

CFA is short for Chartered Financial Analyst and is a globally recognized designation given by the CFA institute. The designation measures and certifies the competence and integrity of financial analysts. Candidates are required to pass three levels of exams covering areas, such as accounting, economics, ethics, money management, and security analysis. To earn the CFA charter, candidates must pass all three levels of the exam, which is considered one of the most rigorous in the global investment management profession. At Stetson University, the School of Business has partnered with Wiley to provide students with a learning experience that follows the CFA charter curriculum. Along with this, multiple scholarships are offered each year for students who are interested in sitting for the CFA exam during their undergrad years. For more information on the CFA charter and the CFA institute, visit the cfainstitute.org

What is the CFA Research Challenge?

The CFA Research Challenge is an annual global competition that provides university students with hands-on mentoring and intensive training in financial analysis and professional ethics. Each student is tested on their analytical, valuation, report writing, and presentation skills. Those who participate gain real-world experience as they assume the role of a research analyst. The CFA Research Challenge expands across 95 countries, 1000+ universities, totaling over 6,000 students. Students research a company from a breadth of industries and must analyze, study, research, valuate, report and present on the assigned company. The challenge begins at the local level and then students have the opportunity to advance through multiple stages, with the ultimate goal of competing at the Global Final in New York City. Stetson University strives to compete in the CFA Research Challenge each year and has advanced to the Americas Regional Final two years in a row (2021, 2022). To learn more about the CFA Research Challenge, visit cfainstitute.org

What could best prepare me for RGIP?

To best prepare for RGIP, students should focus on:

Having a sound understanding of the financial markets and daily world news
Developing their Excel and PowerPoint skills, which will greatly benefit you throughout the program, as well as your career
Maintaining a strong academic record
A general understanding of accounting principles and practices
Understanding how to effectively read financial statements