Master of Science in Finance - UOnline (2024)

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Designed to develop innovative thinkers who will lead the next generation of financial professionals, the David Eccles School of Business Master of Science in Finance (MSF) degree adds clout to your resume and expands your career options. Ranked No. 1 in the U.S. for best value by theFinancial Times, and top-15 overall by theTFE Times, the Eccles School MSF prepares tomorrow’s financial leaders to react to the ever-changing industry and redefine their own institutions.

At the University of Utah, our courses combine the flexibilityof online teaching with the advantages and direct engagement of traditional teaching. Enjoy the benefit of studying online at your own pacewhile still engaging with classmates and instructors.This flexible way of teaching improves your overall experience and your ability to retain what you learn.

Interactive learning comes in a variety of ways:

  • Group assignments, where you collaborate via email or a discussion forum to answer a problem set.
  • Contributions to a discussion forum, where you directly respond to previous posts.
  • Peer reviews, where you review and comment on assignments from other students.

Our classesalsooffer multipleroutes to stay connectedand get help:

  • Communicate directly with the instructor via email.
  • Participate in and guide online discussions.
  • Attendonline office hours in discussion threads or on the phone.
  • Instructorsare available in “real” office hours for students on or near campus; for some courses we offer Q&A sessions in a classroom.

Master of Science in Finance (MSF) fromthe David Eccles School of Business

Our core curriculum lays a strong foundation in Finance. Elective courses expand on this foundation and allow you to specialize in your path of study.

The MSF curriculum contains 30 total credits. These credits are comprised of 15 core credits and 15 elective credits. Once admitted, we recommend students make an appointment with an academic advisor to map out a course of study that will align with their needs and class schedules. This will help ensure students are meeting key degree requirements while accomplishing their education goals.

Core Courses:

Reading and Interpreting Financial Statements
Advanced Corporate Finance
Investments and Portfolio Management
Financial Modeling

Any 3 Credits from the Following:

Financial Application of Statistical Models
Financial Programming
Introduction to Financial Programming
VBA for Excel

Elective Course Options:

Value and Management Accounting
Business Valuation and Analysis
Tax and Business Strategies
Finance Professional Lecture Series
Personal Finance Planning
Financial Management and Decision Making in a Corporation
Excel for Finance Professionals
VBA for Accounting and Finance
Cases in Corporate Financial Planning & Analysis
Intro Risk Management for Multi-Assets Investors
Venture Capital
Advanced Venture Capital
Private Equity Buyouts
Perspectives in Private Equity
Financial Engineering
Financial Markets Laboratory
Hedge Funds
Financial Programming
Mergers and Acquisitions
CFA Level I
CFA Level I Part 2
Innovations in Housing Affordability
Real Estate Finance
Real Estate Analysis Techniques
Real Estate Lab
Real Estate Investment Trusts
Fixed Income Investing
Profiles of Leadership

A comprehensive exit exam is also required to graduate from the program.

$1,067/ credit* for resident
$1,500/ credit* for non-resident

With effect from Spring 2024 (*Subject to change without notice)

This program qualifies for the U of U employee reduced tuition benefit.

MSF alumni have earned a strong reputation in local and national finance companies. Students in this program have the opportunity to work one-on-one with a dedicated career coach and take advantage of our career opportunities. Examples of some of the job positions that our MSF alum hold are financial analyst, financial manager, portfolio manager, and risk analyst. Our most recent graduates’ average salary is $90,925.

To be considered for the MSF program, applicants must complete the following admission requirements:

  • Behave professionally and ethically throughout the admissions process.
  • Graduate with a four-year U.S. regionally accredited institution or an equivalent.
  • Obtain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA or the last 60 credit hours equates to a 3.0.
  • Obtain two letters of recommendation.
  • Submit a statement of purpose.
  • Submit a resume.
  • Submit unofficial transcripts of all institutions attended.
  • Satisfy two prerequisite courses preferably with a B or better: Intro to Accounting (3 credits) and Financial Management (3 credits).
  • International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency by taking either the IELTS or TOEFL exam. Applicants must earn a minimum 6.5 IELTS score or a minimum 90 TOEFL score.

See more details on the admission requirements.

Apply for the MSFprogram.

Application Deadline

The applications for Spring and Fall open on August 1 of each year. Click here to see application deadlines.

How to APPLY

Department Contact

Abby Reiser
Associate Director, Student Services
MSF Online Advisor

801-587-8533
Abby.Reiser@Eccles.Utah.edu

Master of Science in Finance - UOnline (2024)

FAQs

How hard is a master of science in finance? ›

A Master's in Finance is a sought-after degree that equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the world of finance. However, it is a difficult programme that requires strong math, analytical, and problem-solving skills. This article discusses a Master's in Finance program's rigour and challenges.

Is a master of science in finance worth it? ›

A master's degree in finance provides a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help set you apart in such a competitive, global and in-demand job market. This includes in-depth knowledge in areas like: Investments. Financial Analysis.

Is Master of Science in Finance the same as Master of finance? ›

MSF and M. Fin / MSc programs differ as to career preparation and hence degree focus — with the former centered on financial management and investment management, and the latter on more technical roles (although, see below for further discussion as to this distinction).

What is the hardest course in finance? ›

It's long been known as the hardest qualification in finance. A rewarding, if somewhat daunting undertaking. But 60 years since candidates sat the first exams, the CFA Program has changed.

Is finance harder than accounting? ›

Is finance harder than accounting? Accounting relies on precise arithmetic principles, making it more complex, whereas finance requires a grasp of economics and accounting without as much mathematical detail.

Is finance a lot of hard math? ›

One thing that's for sure is the high amount of math you will need to study. Finance is a mathematical discipline, so if you aren't as comfortable with math as with other ways of thinking, you may find it more challenging. Additionally, finance also makes use of a vast, highly specific vocabulary.

Who earns more MBA or masters in finance? ›

Master's in Finance vs. MBA vs. MBA in Finance
MS in FinanceMBA
Salary Potential*Average earning potential ranges from $80,000 to $141,000+Average earning potential ranges from $63,000 to $160,000+
3 more rows
Aug 9, 2022

Will a masters in finance get me a job? ›

There are a variety of different jobs that you may consider pursuing once you obtain your master's degree in finance, including those in corporate finance, personal finance and public finance. Here are overviews of five different jobs in the finance sector that you may enjoy.

Is MS Finance better than MBA? ›

While MS Finance is a more finance-oriented course and helps a person to acquire knowledge on diverse finance related topics. Career-wise, MBA finance degree holders can look out for jobs in areas apart from finance, whereas MS finance are less likely to find better job opportunities beyond the finance sector.

Which Master degree is best for finance? ›

55 Master Programs in Economic Studies Finance Finance and Banking 2024
  • Business Finance.
  • Corporate Finance.
  • Finance and Economics.
  • Financial Management.
  • International Finance.
  • Islamic Finance.
  • Public Finance.
  • Risk Management.

Which is better a CFA or Masters in finance? ›

If you are primarily interested in managing wealth for institutions or in an institution such as a mutual fund, then the CFA and/or a Master's are the most recognized. If you are primarily interested in working for a company as a financial analyst, financial manager or in a similar role then a Masters is a good choice.

Is Master of Science in Finance a STEM degree? ›

MS Finance Degree Earns Coveted STEM Designation.

What is the easiest course in finance? ›

Some of the easiest short-term certification courses in finance include financial modeling, certified financial planner, and certified financial analyst.

What is the most prestigious finance course? ›

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Certification

The CFA designation is highly sought after by finance professionals around the world. It consists of three levels and takes an average of about 4 years to complete all 3 levels. It is widely regarded as one of the top finance certifications.

What is the hardest job in finance? ›

The most (and least) stressful jobs in banking and finance
  • Most stressful job in finance : Investment Banker (M&A or capital markets professional) ...
  • Second most stressful job in finance : Trader. ...
  • Third most stressful job in finance : Risk management & Compliance.

Is finance a difficult degree? ›

There are a few reasons why some people might consider finance a difficult field to study or work in, including: Managing an organization's finances sounds intimidating. Finance requires a wide range of knowledge and skills that seem difficult to master, especially for someone without any finance experience.

Is finance a hard science? ›

A major in finance requires you to have a strong math and economics background. But don't let that intimidate you! With dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn, anyone can succeed in this field.

Is it hard to get a Master of Science? ›

Master's degrees are difficult, but depending on which type you enroll in, your workload will vary. While each master's program is built differently, at the end of your 2-year studies, you will leave with expert knowledge of your chosen subject.

How long does an MS in finance take? ›

Generally, a Master's in Finance program will take two years in addition to your bachelor's degree. However, some universities offer accelerated programs. These programs allow you to earn both a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in finance in five years.

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