What you need to know about a master’s in finance

Prospective students considering a highly ranked W. P. Carey Master of Science in Finance (MS-FIN) from Arizona State University should know that it’s difficult to go from no work experience in the financial industry straight to investment banking solely with a degree. If you’d like to rebrand yourself as a future financial leader, the MS-FIN can help.

Prospective students considering a highly ranked W. P. Carey Master of Science in Finance (MS-FIN) from Arizona State University should know that it’s difficult to go from no work experience in the financial industry straight to investment banking solely with a degree. If you’d like to rebrand yourself as a future financial leader, the MS-FIN can help. At W. P. Carey, you will experience a program with competitive tuition and faculty members who bring decades of real-world experience into the classroom. 

The Master of Science in Finance curriculum

If you’re worried that your background doesn’t directly relate to finance, earning your degree can provide leverage to pursue top jobs in the field. During the 9-month program, you’ll be able to dive into a curriculum related to financial theory, mathematics, quantitative finance, investments, markets, financial reports, analysis, and valuation.

Once enrolled in the full-time MS-FIN, expect to spend a year dedicated to all things finance. With these specialized degrees becoming more popular, graduates are using their elevated knowledge to enter fields such as trading, investments, or risk management.

Future career opportunities include: 

• corporate finance
• risk management 
• money management
• financial planning 
• investment banking 
• consulting
• real estate 

Program perks

Because of the resources at ASU and the W. P. Carey School, you’ll have early access to recruiters, making key connections on the way to your new career.  At the culmination of the program, you’ll be able to sit for the Chartered Financial Analyst exam and earn the CFA designation. Another perk is that it’s STEM-designated - which means eligible graduates on student visas have access to an optional practical training (OPT) extension for up to 36 months.

Typically, MS-FIN students have less than two years of work experience – which makes it a great program for someone looking to start a career in the finance industry. Because it’s a top-ranked business school, admission to the W. P. Carey is competitive and selective. Make sure to review the application materials to give yourself the best chance for success.

Join the W. P. Carey alumni network

As a W. P. Carey graduate, you’ll join a distinct network that comprises more than 100,000 leaders who continue to rethink the nature of business, engage the world, and create a better future. As an alumnus, you’ll receive career support long after you graduate.