Master of Science in Applied Finance
Develop Financial Expertise That Powers Smarter Decisions
The Pepperdine Graziadio Master of Science in Applied Finance (MSAF) is designed for emerging finance professionals who want to develop strong analytical skills and apply them to real-world financial decision-making. Successful finance professionals must be able to evaluate risk, assess value, and make data-informed decisions with confidence.
Our STEM-designated program takes a practical, application-focused approach, combining core financial theory with hands-on learning. Through a structured 12–15 month format, you’ll build a foundation in financial analysis, valuation, and investment strategy, while gaining experience working with real financial data and tools used across the industry.
From your first course, the curriculum emphasizes applied learning, ensuring you graduate
with both the technical expertise and strategic mindset needed to succeed in today’s
finance landscape.
Core Curriculum
The MSAF program consists of 41 total units, including core coursework in economics, quantitative methods, accounting, and finance, along with elective options to tailor your experience. Students also have the opportunity to complete an optional internship practicum.
Program Structure
Core Courses (33 units)
Build a strong foundation in key areas such as:
- Financial accounting and analysis
- Corporate finance
- Investments and portfolio management
- Economics and financial markets
- Quantitative methods and econometric modeling
Electives (8 units)
Customize your learning with advanced finance courses, including topics in:
- Business valuation
- Equity analysis
- Fixed income and capital markets
- Investment banking
Career Seminar (0 units)
Receive professional development support, including career preparation, networking strategies, and industry insights.
Optional Internship Practicum (0 units)
In an optional fourth trimester, apply your knowledge in a real-world setting and
gain hands-on industry experience prior to graduation.
Degree Specializations
Customize your MSAF experience by selecting a specialization that aligns with your career goals and interests. Students can choose between financial management or investments, each designed to build targeted expertise in high-demand areas of finance.
Take the Next Step
Learn more about how to achieve your career goals with the Pepperdine Graziadio Master of Science in Applied Finance Program.
What Can Students Expect?
Industry-Aligned Curriculum
Built on frameworks recommended by the CFA Institute, the program prepares students with relevant, in-demand financial skills and knowledge.
CFA Preparation
Gain a strong foundation in areas such as valuation, fixed income, and portfolio management, helping position you for success on the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) exam.
Accelerated MBA Pathway
Fast-track your MBA by transferring units toward your core MBA courses.
Applied, Hands-On Learning
Work with real financial data, including stock prices, interest rates, and market indicators, to develop models and inform investment decisions.
Access to Industry Tools
Utilize Bloomberg Professional Services terminals to analyze markets and conduct financial research.
Collaborative Learning Environment
Work closely with peers and faculty in small classes that foster engagement, teamwork, and meaningful connections.
Balancing Theory and Hands-On Experience
The MSAF curriculum bridges financial theory with practical application to ensure students are career-ready.
- Real-World Financial Analysis: Students gather and analyze market data, including equities, commodities, and macroeconomic indicators, to evaluate investment opportunities.
- Project-Based Learning: Courses integrate hands-on projects where students apply statistical and financial models to real business scenarios.
- Progressive Learning Structure: The program begins with foundational concepts and builds toward advanced financial analysis and strategy in later terms.
- Industry-Relevant Tools: Students gain exposure to programming languages such as Python and R, reflecting growing demand in finance and analytics roles.
Learn in Global Destination
Our MSAF program includes opportunities to broaden your perspective through immersive international learning experiences.
One of the program’s most popular electives features a week-long Global Business Intensive (GBI), where students travel abroad to engage directly with international businesses, policy leaders, and diverse economic systems. You'll explore how cultural, regulatory, and economic factors shape global markets while building relationships with peers and professionals from around the world.
Whether you're visiting financial institutions in London, startups in Berlin, or supply chains in Singapore, these experiences equip you with a sharper, more nuanced understanding of global business strategy, giving you the insight to lead confidently across borders.
Frequently Asked Questions