FAQs

The MS in Finance program will begin in the fall semester (August).

The MS Finance program can be completed in one year.

Yes, students can work full-time while attending the MSF program. 

Applicants for admission to the M.S. program must hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited college or university. 

There is no minimum work experience required for admissions.  Professional experience is preferred. Click here for more information: MS Finance Admissions Requirements.

For the MS Finance program, an undergraduate course in economics is a prerequisite. 

If you did not take economics during your undergraduate studies, you will be required to complete an ECON workshop to ensure you have the necessary foundational knowledge.

Submission of GRE or GMAT scores are optional. Speak with your Saint Mary's Program Advisor if you have any additional questions.

The MS Finance Program is cohort-based. Cohorts usually range in size from 15 to 20 students which allows for an engaging classroom experience and faculty support. The cohort structure improves the learning experience and helps you develop study groups and professional connections.

Yes, the MS Finance program is cohort based. 

The cost of the MS Finance program can be found on its Tuition & Financial Aid page, linked here: Tuition & Financial Aid | Saint Mary's College.

Yes, we offer scholarships for qualified candidates.

Financial Aid is also available. Graduate students are eligible for a variety of loans, including both subsidized and unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loans and the Graduate PLUS Loan. To discuss what options may be available to you please contact:

Office of Financial Aid: (925) 631-4370
Graduate Business Office: (925) 631-4500

We do not require prior work experience in finance to enter the MS Finance program. The finance program has students who work in finance and others that want to start careers in the finance industry. 

Yes, the MS Finance curriculum mirrors the knowledge in the CFA Candidate Body of Knowledge or ‘CBOK’. This degree comprises 11 courses which focus on the concepts and quantitative techniques used in financial analysis and portfolio management that are required study for all three levels of the Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA) exams. 

Yes, we hold virtual information sessions. You can view our upcoming info session dates here.