Dr. James Bertram

Assistant Professor

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Biography

James Bertram is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Finance at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he has been contributing to the academic community since 2023. He brings a wealth of experience from his extensive career in investment banking, spanning over three decades. Bertram's academic focus centers around various aspects of finance, particularly in investment banking, financial statement analysis, and corporate finance. His teaching methodologies are designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, preparing students for successful careers in investment banking through courses like the Investment Banking Academy. Bertram holds a Master of Business Administration from the Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois, obtained in 2021, and a Bachelor of Science in Finance with Highest Honors from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, awarded in 1989. He has previously held significant leadership roles in investment banking at firms such as William Blair & Company and Banc America Securities, enhancing his pedagogical approach with practical insights from the industry.

Research Interests

Experience

Clinical Assistant Professor

— Present

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign • Champaign, IL

Teaching finance courses and mentoring students in investment banking.

Instructor

— Present

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign • Champaign, IL

Instructed courses focused on finance and investment banking.

Senior Director

— Present

William Blair & Company • Chicago, IL

Led investment banking operations, focusing on client advisory and transactions.

Managing Director, Co-Head Corporate & Investment Banking

— Present

Banc America Securities • Chicago, IL

Oversaw corporate investment banking activities and managed client relationships.

Awards

#

Dean's Impact Award

Courses

Investment Banking Academy (FIN 391) Investment Banking (FIN 463) Investment Banking (FIN 526)

Requirements for University of Illinois

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
IELTS
Listening
Required:7
Reading
Required:7
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:17
Reading
Required:19
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:103
GRE General
Prerequisites
Mathematical background Linear Algebra Calculus
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation
  • Academic Statement of Purpose
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

GRE is optional for admission to all graduate programs in Statistics. Full status admission requires higher language scores than limited status.