COMM_V 271 - Introduction to Capital Markets
COMM 271 is designed for curious, motivated students eager to explore the world of capital markets. It blends rigorous academic content with first-hand perspectives from leading professionals across the entire spectrum of the industry: private equity, private credit, investment banking, quantitative investing, hedge funds, and thematic investing. Students will not only study the economic foundations that shape market behavior but also engage directly with practitioners who apply these concepts in high-stakes, real-world settings.
The course fosters integrated learning: academic frameworks will inform discussions with industry experts, while professional insights will enrich students’ theoretical understanding. By the end, students will have developed a holistic, practice-informed view of capital markets, preparing them to think critically and operate effectively in this dynamic environment.
Learning objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Analyze the roles of key institutions and functions within capital markets, and assess how various career paths align with their skills, interests, and long-term goals.
Interpret and respond to written and verbal communications commonly used in capital markets, applying appropriate terminology and professional conventions.
Identify and evaluate firm-specific and market-level factors that influence fundamental value.
Apply core valuation frameworks and techniques to assess the attractiveness of stock investments.
Develop and present well-supported written and verbal arguments regarding the fairness of a company’s valuation.
- Integrate rigorous academic theory with practitioner insights to design and deliver a comprehensive stock valuation project, demonstrating the ability to synthesize multiple perspectives into an actionable investment view.
Admission
Admission to COMM 271 is by application only and is restricted to BCom students entering Year 2. To apply, please self-enroll in the course admission site using this link and complete all components of the application package provided. For any questions about the course or the application process, please feel free to contact James Shou at james.shou@sauder.ubc.ca.
For the 2026 Winter Session, the deadline to apply is Friday, June 12, 2026. Successful applicants will be notified of acceptance and registered in the course in early July.
Students with a pre-existing interest in capital markets may also consider applying to the UBC Portfolio Management Foundation (PMF) program in their second year or to the UBC Sauder Women+ in Finance Training(SWIFT) program. However, please note that admission to COMM 271 is not a factor in the selection process for either PMF or SWIFT. This course is intended to help students prepare for a career in capital markets, regardless of whether they plan to participate in the PMF or SWIFT program.
Students with a pre-existing interest in capital markets or any area in finance more broadly are encouraged to pursue the Early Start to Finance Option.