Master of Science in Finance

Master of Science in Finance (M.S.F.)

The M.S.F. prepares early- and mid-career professionals seeking careers in financial management, capital markets, banking, corporate treasury, investment management, and related fields.  Students gain deep skills in financial analysis and valuation for decision-making in all aspects of business investment, financing, and operating activities so that graduates are prepared to fully engage in organizations ranging from small and medium enterprises to major corporations. 

The M.S.F. is a 33-credit program with up to 3 credits of accounting and finance prerequisites potentially waivable.  After completing or waiving prerequisites, the M.S.F. comprises a 15-credit core curriculum plus 15 elective credits, all of which can be completed in six semesters or less. Delivery is nearly 100% online asynchronous.

Financial management, correctly practiced, is vital to the long-term growth and success of every business organization.  Individuals possessing knowledge and skill in the principles and practice of finance and who adhere to values of transparency, integrity, and accountability are in demand.  In a survey of more than 1900 North American CEOs and CFOs, more than 90% of respondents believe that corporate culture is important to attaining mission and vision. In addition, 43% of respondents believe the finance function positively influences the effectiveness of corporate culture by exemplifying accountability, integrity, and transparency; 30% believe finance provides analytical tools for superior execution; and 24% believe finance focuses employees on long-term objectives. 

Program Learning Competencies and Objectives

At the completion of the MSF, students will demonstrate proficiency in the following key areas:

Critical Financial Decision-Making

Learners will demonstrate the technical and analytical skills in financial analysis and valuation necessary for effective decision-making pertaining to investment, financing, and operating activities of a business.

• Learners will be able to analyze financial data and apply relevant financial theories and tools to conduct comprehensive financial analysis and make effective financial decisions.
• Learners can strategically evaluate complex financial situations to set goals and develop integrative financial plans that drive sustainable organizational growth.

Communication

Learners will demonstrate advanced communication skills, enriched by cultural intelligence, necessary for successful careers in financial management, capital markets, banking, corporate treasury, investment management, and related fields.

• Learners will be able to communicate the findings, relevance, and potential impact of their analyses to support and influence decisions and strategic change in the organization.  
• Learners will be equipped to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, fostering inclusive environments and understanding global financial practices.

Ethical Mindset

Learners will recognize ethical dilemmas in an organizational context and apply ethical decision-making frameworks to business decisions.  

• Learners will be able to evaluate ethical dilemmas in financial decision-making and apply ethical principles to ensure integrity and accountability in financial practices.
• Learners will be equipped to assess the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impacts of financial decisions, applying socially responsible investing principles to promote business practices that foster long-term organizational success.  

Graduation Requirements for the MS Finance

Total credits 33