Read about the classes typically offered in finance master's degree programs as well as the types of degrees available. Get information about prerequisites for these degrees and career options.
What Master's Degree Programs Are Available for Financial Analysts?
You can pursue a Master of Science in Finance or a Master of Finance. If you're looking for a program that includes additional business courses, you could earn a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance. To apply to one of these programs, you'll need a bachelor's degree from an accredited school. You'll also submit Graduate Records Exam (GRE) or Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) scores, a current resume and 2-3 letters of reference.
You may need to complete undergraduate coursework in accounting, calculus or statistics prior to admission. Some programs offer a refresher course in these subjects before the start of your first semester.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Degree Types</b></td><td>Master of Science in Finance, Master of Finance, MBA in Finance</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td>Financial systems, financial econometrics, corporate finance, international financial management, capital markets theory</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Online Availability</b></td><td>Programs can be completed entirely online</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)</b></td><td>$83,660* (<i>for financial analysts</i>)</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-29)</b></td><td>5% growth* (<i>for all financial analysts</i>)</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatCoursesWillITake">What Courses Will I Take?</h3><p>Graduate programs in finance cover topics like financial analysis, economic theory and financial systems. You'll learn how to price assets, manage an investment portfolio and evaluate financial risk. MBA programs usually include additional coursework in project management, business ethics and organizational development. Other courses in a graduate-level finance program might include:
</p><ul><li>Corporate finance
</li><li>Financial econometrics
</li><li>Capital markets theory
</li><li>International financial management
</li></ul><h3 id="section---AreProgramsAvailableOnline">Are Programs Available Online?</h3><p>Master's degree programs in finance are available online through a number of schools. These programs are typically designed for individuals who want to remain employed while pursuing an advanced degree. As an online student, you'll be expected to complete the same coursework as your campus-based peers. You'll complete assignments, take tests and listen to lectures online. A computer with access to the Internet is required.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatCanIDoWithMyDegree">What Can I Do With My Degree?</h3><p>According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job opportunities for financial analysts were expected to increase at a rate of 5% between 2019-2029 (<i>www.bls.gov</i>). Individuals with master's degrees were expected to have the best job opportunities in finance during this time. The median salary for financial analysts in 2020 was $83,660, according to the BLS.</p>
