Master of Science in Applied Finance

Curriculum

Unlike other degree programs in finance that concentrate on theoretical and quantitative areas such as risk management, the Graziadio School's M.S. in Applied Finance takes a more holistic approach to prepare our students for a variety of financial careers. The 12-month program features a curriculum that focuses on the application of theory to real-world business needs.

The M.S. in Applied Finance is open to recent college graduates who may or may not have an undergraduate degree in business. The program will give students a solid foundation with the core skills and knowledge needed to launch a career in finance.

Curriculum Tracks

Students may choose from three curriculum tracks:

Curriculum 1: General Finance

Hone your skills in such in-demand expertise as business valuation, cost accounting, and tax issues. Course options include: Advanced Financial Accounting, Valuation of Real Options, Capital Markets, and Equity and Bond Investments.

Career opportunities include:

• Equity Analysis
• Corporate Finance
• Financial Planning
• Commercial Banking

Curriculum 1: General Finance Units
Core Classes (economics, quantitative methods, accounting and finance):	31 units
Electives (accounting and/or finance):	20 units
Total Units:	51 units required

Curriculum 2: Financial Management

This elective addresses topics relevant to a career in corporate finance. Required classes: Strategic Issues in Finance, Capital Markets, Working Capital Management, Mergers and Acquisitions.

Career opportunities include:

• Commercial Banking
• Mortgage Banking
• Corporate Finance
• Financial Institution Management
• Corporate Financial Planning
• Risk Management

Curriculum 2: Financial Management Units
Core Classes (economics, quantitative methods, accounting and finance):	43 units
Electives (accounting and/or finance):	8 units
Total Units:	51 units required

Curriculum 3: Investments

Gain the knowledge to prepare you for the Chartered Financial Analyst exam. Required classes: Capital Markets, Modern Portfolio Theory, Analysis of Fixed Income Securities, Analysis of Equity Securities, Management of Financial Risk.

Career opportunities include:

• Equity Analysis
• Fixed Income Analysis
• Financial Planning
• Money Management
• Risk Management

Curriculum 3: Investments Units
Core Classes (economics, quantitative methods, accounting and finance):	39 units
Electives (accounting and/or finance):	12 units
Total Units:	51 units required