Fintech
UNF launches new bachelor’s and master’s programs in “Fintech” in fall 2024
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – There is a critical need for more financial technology workers in Jacksonville right now, which is why a local university is launching two new programs to help companies find talent.
The University of North Florida will offer a bachelor’s and master’s degree program in “Fintech” starting in the fall semester.
The programs will combine the IT, engineering and technology aspects of the industry with the business side.
Local companies say it’s something they want to see from people in the job pool.
If you’ve ever applied for a mortgage using your phone, used a mobile payment service to send or receive money, or received a text from a credit company warning of possible fraud, these are examples of fintech.
UNF student Haitham Elk sees it as a booming industry.
“You could say this is the future of banking, investing and payments,” Elk said.
Elk will participate in the inaugural master’s program in fintech at UNF.
He already has 20 years of experience in the financial sector thanks to his career working in the banking sector while living in Egypt.
“I felt like this is the time to start and be one of the pioneers in this industry and learn more,” Elk said. “Maybe I can be in a leadership position in the future.”
UNF will join a short list of schools offering programs that combine the technology and business aspects of the industry.
The principals at the helm of the merger believe Jacksonville is becoming a fintech hub.
“They can get a wide range of jobs, from data scientist to financial analyst to compliance specialist or compensation systems specialist,” said Albert Loh, interim dean of the College of Business. “There is a wide range of jobs. Fintech is truly a cutting-edge degree area.”
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William Klostermeyer, dean of UNF’s College of Computing, Engineering and Construction, said students typically study finance or technology.
“When they enter the workforce, it’s like they lose half the equation. By developing these programs, they are trying to produce graduates who understand both sides of this really complicated equation,” Klostermeyer said. “We really want to be responsive to this industry and build a workforce and talent pipeline for this industry [companies].”
Principals believe degrees from programs like these can lead to higher starting salaries of five or even six figures.
Elk describes fintech workers as those who have the ability to make data-driven decisions and come up with innovative solutions.
“Gain knowledge to know how to use big data analytics and be able to solve complex problems,” he said.
Loh and Klostermeyer say the hope is to have at least 100 students in each program.
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