Derivatives and Trading Academy

At the Derivatives and Trading Academy, our mission is to provide a cutting-edge learning environment where Finance and Data Science students have the opportunity to learn skills required to excel in the dynamic world of trading. This program allows students to gain real-world trading experience using platforms such as CME, QuikStrike, TrendSpider and Interactive Brokers. Students will also develop and back-test their own ideas powered by data from SpiderRock. This prepares students for successful careers in derivatives and trading.

The idea for the Derivatives and Trading Academy (DTA), a one-of-its-kind academy in the country, really came from the intersection of three trends that continue to play out: Gies Business students getting more quantitative as evidenced by the Data Science major, the playing field for coding getting flatter because of AI, and the continued deep interest in financial markets among the finance students. When I present the trends like this to companies, they are excited to work with students who understand and enjoy the markets but also can quantitative backtest their ideas.

Rich Excell

Clinical Assistant Professor of Finance

Financial Technology Tools and Partners

In the Derivatives and Trading Academy, students gain hands-on experience with industry-leading platforms used by professionals across the financial markets, including TrendSpider, QuikOptions/QuikStrike (THOR), CME Group's CVOL and Intelligence tools, Validity Base, and Interactive Brokers. Through these tools, students develop practical skills in market analysis, volatility research, strategy development, and trade execution.

The Derivatives and Trading Academy is proud to partner with vBase, CME Group, Interactive Brokers, TrendSpider, and QuikStrike to provide students with access to professional-grade technology and real-world learning opportunities.

Explore Company Collaborators

Some additional companies that have collaborated with the Derivatives and Trading Academy are as follows:

Cboe Options Institute
CTC (Chicago Trading Company)
Edward Jones
Options Clearing Corporation
Options Insider Radio Network
Peak 6
Robinhood
TastyTrade
Susquehanna
SpiderRock
Wolverine Trading
Zazove Associates

Academy Curriculum

To go through the Academy, you would need to graduate with the Finance +DS (or IS or CS) and complete all three of Professor Excell's classes. The three classes would be spread out over Fall of Junior Year, Spring of Junior Year, and Fall of Senior Year.

The required classes are:

FIN 412 – Intro to Futures and Options. We focus on practical trading skills to prepare you for interviews. This course is offered only during the fall semester.
FIN 416 – Applied Derivative Strategies (formerly FIN 490). We introduce you to more sophisticated options for building trading skills, and also work on technical interview skills. This course is offered only during the spring semester.
FIN 428 - Cases in Financial Derivatives. We will learn how to build and backtest your own trading strategy. This course is offered only during the fall semester.

You are welcome to sign up for two of the classes if you are a rising Senior. However, the third class is critical to complete the Academy.

Through the Derivatives and Trading Academy, I developed a deeper understanding of the financial markets and how to critically analyze information to create strategies and make decisions. Learning about trading and risk management strengthened both my quantitative thinking and competitive nature. I can confidently say the skills I learned through the Derivatives and Trading Academy will benefit me both in my career and beyond.

Arjun Sivasankaran

Finance + DS, Fall 2025 Cohort

The Derivatives and Trading Academy gave me the opportunity to explore trading in a hands-on environment. Through simulations and strategy development, I strengthened my ability to analyze market data, think critically about trading opportunities, and make disciplined decisions while managing risk. Overall, the experience helped me develop practical analytical and problem-solving skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Jessica Micklin

Finance + DS, Fall 2025 Cohort

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements to apply?

To apply to the Derivatives and Trading Academy, students must be enrolled in one of the following dual-degree programs: Finance + Data Science, Finance + Information Science, or Finance + Computer Science. Applicants must also have successfully completed FIN 300 prior to applying. While prior trading experience is not required, students should have a strong interest in financial markets, derivatives, and trading.

How is the program structured?

The Derivatives and Trading Academy is a three-semester program built around a sequence of specialized finance courses focused on derivatives and trading. Students complete FIN 412: Introduction to Futures and Options, FIN 416: Applied Derivative Strategies, and FIN 428: Cases in Financial Derivatives. Through this progression, students build knowledge of derivatives markets, apply advanced trading strategies, and ultimately develop and test their own trading approaches through market simulations and strategy backtesting.

What opportunities does the Academy provide?

The Derivatives and Trading Academy combines academic coursework with real-world exposure to the trading industry. Students gain experience analyzing markets, applying derivatives concepts, and developing trading strategies in practical settings. The program also connects students with industry professionals through guest speakers, mentorship, and networking opportunities, helping students prepare for careers in trading, quantitative finance, and financial markets.

Contact Us

Please reach out to Professor Richard Excell to apply or learn more.

Email Professor Excell