SPS Stories
Faculty Spotlight
Learning to Navigate Markets with Confidence
Fast Facts
- Brings hands-on finance experience to his NYU SPS classroom, bridging the gap between theory and real-world application
- Students learn essential valuation tools like discounting cash flow while gaining a critical mindset to question financial models
- Interactive projects, including a live bond market simulation, give students firsthand experience in market dynamics
<p><span class="p-body">James Berman’s path to finance was anything but conventional. An English major and law school graduate who never practiced law, he found his calling in financial markets. “I can relate well to students who may be contemplating a career change or taking an unconventional path—all of which makes me feel very at home at NYU SPS.”</span></p>
Teaching Real-world Finance
<p><span class="p-body">Berman brings firsthand industry experience to his courses. “Like most instructors at NYU SPS, my day job is the real world, not the ivory tower. I’m steeped in financial markets every day, which makes for plenty of real-world examples by the time evening class rolls around.” His approach emphasizes practical learning and a deep understanding of financial fundamentals.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Understanding financial statements is the backbone of corporate finance. “Financial statements are the scaffolding of any finance education—and their importance is ignored at anyone’s own peril.” Students also develop skills in capital budgeting, risk management, and valuation, with a strong emphasis on cash flow discounting. “Trying to succeed in finance without this tool would be like flying a plane without radar.” At the same time, Berman warns against over-reliance on models. “Understanding tools while also understanding their limitations makes for the educated management of risk.”</span></p>
Hands-on Learning with Market Simulations
<p><span class="p-body">One of Berman’s signature classroom experiences is a bond market simulation, where students trade bonds as interest rates change. “It’s amazing how clear the concept becomes when you’re left holding a low-interest bond in a high-interest-rate world.” His goal is to give students experiential learning that deepens their understanding of financial principles beyond textbooks.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">The <a href="/content/sps-nyu/certificates/corporate-finance.html" target="_blank">Certificate in Corporate Finance</a> provides students with a strong foundation applicable across financial roles.</span></p>
It really provides much of the same education that the finance component of an MBA provides… It’s a very useful thing to show an employer.”
<p><span class="p-body">Berman’s passion for teaching comes from his students’ enthusiasm. “I love teaching students who want to be there, which is the definition of adult education.” With his guidance, students leave equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate the financial world with confidence.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Take the leap today when you pursue a <a href="/content/sps-nyu/certificates/corporate-finance.html" target="_blank">Certificate in Corporate Finance</a> at NYU SPS.</span></p>
