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Introduction to Finance and Accounting Specialization

A top-tier DeFi specialization from Duke University, covering DeFi strategies, smart contracts, crypto investments, and blockchain applications in finance.

access

Lifetime

level

Beginner

certificate

Certificate of completion

language

English

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What you will learn

  • Understand the fundamentals of Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and how it differs from traditional finance.

  • Explore blockchain technology, smart contracts, and decentralized applications (dApps).

  • Learn about cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, and their role in DeFi ecosystems.

  • Study lending, borrowing, staking, and yield farming strategies in DeFi.

  • Gain insights into decentralized exchanges (DEXs) and automated market makers (AMMs).
  • Analyze the risks, security challenges, and regulatory considerations of DeFi protocols.
  • Work on real-world DeFi projects and case studies to apply your knowledge.

Program Overview

Introduction to Decentralized Finance

⏱️4-6 weeks

  • Understand the history of DeFi and how it challenges traditional banking systems.
  • Explore centralized vs. decentralized finance models.
  • Learn the key benefits and limitations of DeFi.

Blockchain & Smart Contracts in DeFi

⏱️ 6-8 weeks

  • Study blockchain fundamentals and how smart contracts enable trustless transactions.
  • Gain hands-on experience with Ethereum, Solidity programming, and dApps.
  • Explore Layer 1 and Layer 2 scaling solutions for DeFi applications.

DeFi Applications & Financial Services

⏱️ 8-12 weeks

  • Learn how lending and borrowing work in DeFi platforms like Aave and Compound.

  • Explore liquidity pools, yield farming, and staking mechanisms.

  • Understand stablecoins, governance tokens, and DeFi tokenomics.

Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs) & Automated Market Makers (AMMs)

⏱️ 10-12 weeks

  • Study decentralized trading platforms like Uniswap, SushiSwap, and Curve Finance.

  • Understand how AMMs replace traditional order books and enable peer-to-peer trading.

  • Learn about impermanent loss, arbitrage opportunities, and liquidity provision.

DeFi Risks, Security, & Regulatory Landscape

⏱️ 12-15 weeks

  • Identify common DeFi vulnerabilities, including rug pulls, flash loan attacks, and smart contract exploits.

  • Explore DeFi security best practices, audits, and governance mechanisms.

  • Learn about global regulatory challenges, compliance requirements, and the future of DeFi laws.

Capstone Project: Building a DeFi Portfolio

⏱️ 14-16 weeks

  • Research and analyze DeFi investment opportunities.
  • Develop a personalized DeFi strategy based on risk tolerance and goals.
  • Build and present a DeFi portfolio with diversified assets and risk-mitigation strategies.

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Job Outlook

  • The DeFi sector is expanding rapidly, with over $50 billion locked in DeFi protocols (as of 2025).

  • Career opportunities include roles such as DeFi Analyst, Blockchain Developer, Smart Contract Engineer, and Crypto Asset Manager.

  • Salaries in DeFi range from $80K – $200K, with top talent commanding six-figure incomes.

  • Companies and startups are actively seeking professionals with expertise in blockchain, DeFi, and Web3 finance.

  • The rise of AI-powered financial automation is expected to further revolutionize DeFi applications.

9.2Expert Score
Highly Recommended
The Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Specialization by Duke University is one of the best courses for mastering DeFi concepts. It provides a deep dive into blockchain technology, DeFi protocols, and financial strategies while offering hands-on exposure to real-world applications.
Value
9.1
Price
9.2
Skills
9.2
Information
9.1
PROS
  • Taught by Duke University experts, ensuring high-quality academic content.
  • Covers real-world DeFi applications, lending, staking, DEXs, and AMMs.
  • Hands-on projects with blockchain-based investment portfolio management.
  • Prepares learners for careers in crypto, blockchain, and fintech industries.
  • Explores DeFi risks, security concerns, and global regulations.
CONS
  • Requires basic knowledge of blockchain and finance.
  • Some technical topics (smart contracts, Solidity) may be challenging for beginners.
  • Regulatory discussions may vary based on geographical differences.

Specification: Introduction to Finance and Accounting Specialization

access

Lifetime

level

Beginner

certificate

Certificate of completion

language

English

Introduction to Finance and Accounting Specialization
Introduction to Finance and Accounting Specialization
Course | Career Focused Learning Platform
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