Introduction to Finance and Accounting Specialization Course Syllabus

Overview: This specialization provides a comprehensive introduction to Decentralized Finance (DeFi), covering core concepts in blockchain, smart contracts, DeFi applications, and financial strategies. Designed for beginners with basic finance or blockchain awareness, the course spans approximately 50–60 hours of content across six modules. Each module builds practical knowledge through real-world examples, case studies, and hands-on projects, culminating in a capstone project where learners build and present a diversified DeFi investment portfolio. Lifetime access ensures flexible, self-paced learning with a certificate of completion.

Module 1: Introduction to Decentralized Finance

Estimated time: 10 hours

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

Module 2: Blockchain & Smart Contracts in DeFi

Estimated time: 15 hours

• Study blockchain fundamentals and trustless transactions
• Learn how smart contracts enable DeFi applications
• Gain familiarity with Ethereum and Solidity basics
• Explore Layer 1 and Layer 2 scaling solutions

Module 3: DeFi Applications & Financial Services

Estimated time: 15 hours

• Understand lending and borrowing on platforms like Aave and Compound
• Explore yield farming and staking mechanisms
• Learn about liquidity pools and their role in DeFi
• Analyze stablecoins and governance token models

Module 4: Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs) & Automated Market Makers (AMMs)

Estimated time: 12 hours

• Study DEX platforms such as Uniswap, SushiSwap, and Curve Finance
• Understand how AMMs replace traditional order books
• Learn about peer-to-peer trading mechanisms
• Analyze impermanent loss and arbitrage opportunities

Module 5: DeFi Risks, Security, & Regulatory Landscape

Estimated time: 15 hours

• Identify common DeFi vulnerabilities including rug pulls and flash loan attacks
• Explore smart contract exploits and security best practices
• Learn about audit processes and governance mechanisms
• Understand global regulatory challenges and compliance trends

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 20 hours

• Research and analyze real-world DeFi investment opportunities
• Develop a personalized DeFi strategy based on risk tolerance
• Build and present a diversified DeFi portfolio with risk-mitigation plans

Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of finance or blockchain concepts
• Familiarity with cryptocurrencies and digital wallets
• Willingness to engage with technical topics like smart contracts

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Explain core DeFi concepts and differentiate them from traditional finance
• Interact confidently with DeFi platforms including lending protocols and DEXs
• Analyze yield farming, staking, and liquidity provision strategies
• Evaluate security risks and regulatory considerations in DeFi investments
• Construct and manage a diversified DeFi portfolio using real-world tools