Kennesaw State University will launch a new undergraduate degree in financial technology this fall, responding to employer demand for workers skilled in fintech and blockchain applications.
The program sits within the university's College of Computing and Software Engineering. It combines coursework in finance, computer science, and software development to prepare students for roles in digital banking, cryptocurrency platforms, and financial services technology.
Blockchain technology receives explicit attention in the curriculum. Students study distributed ledger systems, smart contracts, and cryptography alongside traditional fintech topics like payment systems and risk management. The degree reflects broader industry shifts toward decentralized finance and the growing prevalence of blockchain in banking infrastructure.
Kennesaw State's move aligns with national trends in higher education. Universities across the United States have expanded fintech offerings over the past three years as major financial institutions and startups compete aggressively for talent. JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and emerging fintech companies have all signaled urgent hiring needs in blockchain engineering and digital asset management.
The Atlanta-area university positioned the degree to serve both traditional banking careers and emerging sectors. Graduates can pursue roles in established financial institutions modernizing their technology stacks or join startups building new financial platforms. The program also appeals to students interested in regulatory technology (regtech) and compliance automation.
Kennesaw State joins peer institutions offering specialized fintech degrees. Universities including the University of Pennsylvania, George Mason University, and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas have launched similar programs within the past two years.
The undergraduate degree requires completion of core courses in software engineering, database systems, and financial markets alongside fintech-specific electives. Students gain hands-on experience through projects and internships with Atlanta-based financial services firms.
This expansion reflects a broader pattern of universities rapidly adjusting curricula to match labor market demands. Fintech jobs grew 28 percent between 2018 and 2