Finance involves obtaining, using, and managing funds to achieve the company`s financial objectives (e.g., maximization of shareholder value). The course emphasizes and develops an understanding of financial concepts, tools, and major decision areas related to the financial management of the business. This course is directed toward the businessperson who must have financial knowledge but has not had formal training in finance--perhaps a newly promoted middle manager or a marketing manager of a small company who must know some basic finance concepts. The entrepreneur or sole proprietor also needs this knowledge; he or she may have brilliant product ideas, but not the slightest idea about financing.