Is American University or NYU better for a finance major?

For finance specifically, NYU is the much stronger option in overall reputation, depth of recruiting, and proximity to the industry. If your goal is to maximize access to traditional high-finance recruiting, NYU has a clear edge.

NYU fits the student who wants a highly career-focused finance path and is comfortable in a fast-paced, competitive environment. Stern is especially attractive for students aiming at investment banking, sales and trading, private wealth, corporate finance, or other finance roles where employer recognition and alumni connections matter a lot.

American University makes more sense for a student who wants business in a setting that also leans strongly into policy, government, and international affairs. Washington, DC can still be useful, especially if you are interested in finance adjacent work involving public policy, economic research, regulation, international development, or government-connected organizations.

American can be a solid choice if you want a somewhat different business experience, especially one that blends finance with politics, public affairs, or global issues. But if you are asking strictly about finance opportunities and reputation for that major, NYU stands out more clearly. For a student picturing a direct path into the finance industry, especially in New York, NYU is the one that carries more weight.