Finance for Engineers
This course introduces fundamental financial concepts tailored for engineers, focusing on decision-making, valuation, and financial analysis in technical contexts.
Instructor: Abhishta Abhishta
Term: Q1
Location: University of Twente
Time: TBA
Course Overview
This course provides engineers with essential financial knowledge required for informed decision-making in technical and business environments.
Students will:
- Understand core financial principles and terminology
- Apply time value of money concepts to real-world problems
- Evaluate investment decisions using financial metrics
- Analyse financial risks and returns
- Interpret financial statements in an engineering context
Prerequisites
- Basic mathematics (algebra)
- No prior finance knowledge required
Assessment
- Problem sets and assignments
- Case study analysis
- Final evaluation
Teaching Approach
The course combines:
- Conceptual lectures on financial principles
- Practical problem-solving sessions
- Real-world engineering case studies
- Quantitative analysis and decision-making exercises
Schedule
| Week | Date | Topic | Materials |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Introduction to Finance
Basic financial concepts and the role of finance in engineering decisions. |
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| 2 |
Time Value of Money
Discounting, compounding, and present value calculations. |
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| 3 |
Investment Decision-Making
Net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR), and project evaluation. |
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| 4 |
Risk and Return
Understanding financial risk and expected returns. |
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| 5 |
Cost Analysis
Cost structures, budgeting, and financial planning. |
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| 6 |
Financial Statements
Interpreting balance sheets, income statements, and cash flows. |
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| 7 |
Engineering Economics
Applying financial tools to engineering projects. |
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| 8 |
Case Studies
Real-world financial decision-making scenarios in engineering contexts. |