Find the best Master’s of Financial Engineering programs at TFE Times. Use the top Master’s of Financial Engineering program rankings to find the right master’s program for you. 2018 Best Master’s of Finance Programs. Posted on October 24, 2017 August 22, 2018. Subscribe to TFE Times. How can the answer be improved? Types of Master of Finance Programs. Finance is a fairly large field with a wide range of applications in nearly every industry. As such, there may be a variety of masters in finance programs that serve different needs.

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Individuals with a master’s in finance degree qualify for a variety of professions navigating the world of financial instruments and regulatory requirements. Just about every industry, including nonprofits and government agencies, needs qualified, well-trained financial professionals. Companies seek financial professionals who can minimize risk, diversify financial portfolios, maximize return on investments, and help the company grow.

A master’s in finance degree verifies that an individual possesses unique knowledge in the field of finance, knowledge beyond that of a professional who holds an MBA or similar business degree. Online master’s in finance degree programs allow students of all backgrounds, including busy professionals, to earn the education they need for greater success in the business world.

Graduate Programs in Finance Graduate Financial Planning Programs. A graduate degree in Financial Planning could enable students. Graduate Banking Programs. The advent of technology has brought on the need to understand areas such. Finance and accounting are distinct. An online master’s in finance degree is a great choice for students interested in business, economics, accounting, or the stock market. Top 10 Cheap Online Master’s in Finance Degree Programs. West Texas A&M offers one of the best online finance masters degree programs. West Texas A&M University. Completing our list of the top 15 master’s in finance degree programs is the Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech, or IIT). While you may not expect to find a technical institute ranked among the best master’s in finance programs, IIT’s program is unique.

Online Master’s in Finance Degree Program Ranking Guidelines

We selected the degree programs and ranked their quality based on the types of courses they offer, along with their faculty, awards, and reputation, including whether the school provides effective online programs.

The motto of TheBestSchools.org is Finding the best school for you. Here is how we do it:

The value of any ranking list of schools and/or degree programs depends on having a methodologically sound assessment of each school’s/program’s characteristics, especially insofar as these can be objectively measured. A college or university is a complex entity, with numerous factors to consider, and distilling these down to the place where meaningful comparisons can be made to form a defensible ranking list becomes part science and part art.

To meet this challenge—and thereby provide you with the most useful and insightful educational rankings on the Internet — TheBestSchools.org formulates our rankings based on five informational categories (six, when considering online schools). The major metrics and qualities for which we rank are these (with expanded, detailed considerations and weights listed):

1. Academic excellence based on a school’s curriculum generally or within the selected discipline [weight = 25%]

• Weighs school against known leading schools in that discipline
• Weighs number of core curricula listed as advanced courses within that discipline and compares against introductory courses
• Weighs school’s curriculum against known knowledge needs of major employers in that discipline
• Considers number and types of specializations offered within that discipline
• Considers faculty expertise in that discipline
• Considers range of electives within that discipline
• Considers quality of online environment offered to students (if applicable), particularly within that discipline

2. Strength of faculty scholarship [weight = 25%]

• Considers education background of the faculty
• Considers years of faculty experience both inside and outside of academia.
• Considers faculty membership and leadership within relevant, prominent associations
• Considers academic papers published by faculty in relevant, prominent periodicals
• Considers awards and recognitions given to faculty members from prominent organizations and from other sources

3. Reputation [weight = 20%]

• Considers a school’s reputation among academic peers and employers regarding the following:
  • Faculty
  • Curriculum
  • “Freshness” of academic knowledge
  • Adaptability to changes in employment sectors
  • Suitability of graduates for the workplace

4. Financial aid [weight = 10%]

• Mandatory: Requires full accreditation from an agency endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and listed on the federal register to accept student federal financial aid
• Considers range of school-sponsored financial aid such as scholarships and grants

5. Range of degree programs [weight = 20%]

• Considers range of degree levels: associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral and professional
• Considers range of degree subjects offered, such as art & design, computers & technology, education & teaching, criminal justice, and business

6. Strength of online instruction methodology (if applicable) [weight = 25%; subtract 5% from each of the above for online schools/programs]

• Considers the following of the online classes:
  • Types of online technology used to deliver content
  • Pedagogy style: asynchronous, synchronous, or both (depending on the degree)
  • Extent and quality of the online, community learning environment, including options for communication, interactivity, and collaboration between students and also between students and instructors
  • Variety, breadth, and depth of coursework, and its support, including project options and online tutoring
• Considers the following of instructors:
  • Extent of training for teaching within an online learning environment
  • Amount of timely, consistent feedback to students
  • Extent of collaboration with prospective employers to ensure suitability of instructional materials for achieving desired skills
  • Ratio to number of students in a class
• Number and quality of internships in a student’s geographical area for applicable degrees

Because students tend to review a variety of information when choosing a school, the weight a student gives any one criterion will vary. For instance, it’s not enough to offer a carefully constructed ranking of great schools if many are too expensive or too difficult to get into.

To better serve the needs of prospective students, we are therefore increasingly offering filters that help you better use our rankings to find the schools that match your specific needs. These supplement our ranking criteria and include:

• Accreditation
• Public or private status
• Acceptance rate
• Retention rate
• Graduation rate
• ACT/SAT requirements
• Cost in-state / out of state
• Undergrad, grad, or both offered
• Region
• State
• City

Get the best rankings here AND get them to suit your personal needs. That’s TheBestSchools.org advantage!

If you have any questions about our ranking methodology, please contact us.

Citations: For a broader account of our ranking methodology, especially as it relates to TheBestSchools.org’s underlying educational philosophy and, in other ranking articles, looks beyond academic excellence (as here) to such factors as return on investment or incidental benefit, see our article “ Ranking Methodology: How We Rank Schools at TBS.” Reputation of schools and degree programs can at least in part be gauged through the rankings of other well-known educational ranking companies. At TheBestSchools.org, we keep track of such social and peer validation: “ Making Sense of College Rankings.” For nuts-and-bolts information about colleges and universities, we look to the National Center for Education Statistics and especially its College Navigator. Insofar as salary and inflation data are relevant to a ranking, we look to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Finally, nothing beats contacting schools and degree programs directly, which our researchers often do, with the result that all the entries in this article should be considered as belonging to this citation!

The Best Online Master’s in Finance Degree Programs

1. Harvard University

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Founded in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1636, Harvard University’s initial graduating class consisted of nine students. Today, Harvard enrolls approximately 36,000 and comprises 11 colleges. Harvard University consistently ranks among the top universities in the country: According to U.S. News & World Report.

The university offers a master of liberal arts (ALM) in extension studies in finance through the Harvard Extension School. Twelve courses make up the ALM program. Students begin the admission process by registering for three courses – one each in the fields of managerial finance, organizational behavior, and managerial accounting. The ALM program does not stipulate a specific order to this required coursework, although students must earn a grade of B in each course to be considered for admission. Students then submit their application to the program as they are completing their third required course.

Once accepted, the ALM program requires all students to enroll in at least four on-campus classes. Some courses follow intensive weekend delivery formats. The program offers a variety of certificates for concentrated avenues of study, including accounting, corporate finance, principles of finance, business economics, and real estate investment.

Accreditation

Harvard University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.

2. Georgetown University

Washington, District of Columbia

Georgetown is the oldest Jesuit institution in the country. Although still strongly associated with the religious order, the university currently enrolls approximately 19,000 students from diverse cultural, economic, and religious backgrounds. Nine colleges make up the academic core of the university offering programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional levels.U.S. News & World Report ranks the school number 22 among the top national universities.

Courses for the online master’s in finance at the university’s McDonough School of Business contain both synchronous and asynchronous components. The program allows students to work online in their own time before attending a weekly 90-minute synchronous session, either online or on campus. The program also includes onsite components — a week-long residency at the beginning of the program in October and a two-day orientation in the summer. The program leads to a master of science degree.

Students who pursue the MS on a part-time basis need 32 credits to graduate, while full-time students complete 36 credits, including two additional electives and an onsite clinic course. The program requires the completion of a capstone project consisting of a global trip residency in the student’s second spring in the program.U.S. News & World Report ranks the McDonough School of Business as one of the best business schools in the U.S., 24th out of 475 schools.

Accreditation

Georgetown University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

3. Columbia University

New York, New York

Founded as King’s College, Columbia University rebranded itself several times before settling on its modern name in 1896. Approximately 33,000 students currently attend the university, pursuing undergraduate, graduate, medical, and professional degrees.U.S. News & World Report ranks the school 3rd among the top national universities.

The Columbia Business School offers a master of science in operations research with a specialization in methods in finance. Students can complete the 30-credit program 100% online. An interdisciplinary degree, the methods in finance program integrates financial theory with mathematical tools, engineering methods, economics, and programming practices. Applicants need an undergraduate degree in a closely related field such as mathematics, computer science, or engineering.

The MS program requires a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, GRE scores, and a strong background in probability, calculus, and algebra. Those who lack the proper mathematics background can take preparatory undergraduate courses to get up to speed.U.S. News & World Report ranks Columbia Business School sixth in the country. Additionally, it ranks the school’s graduate finance programs among fourth in the U.S.

Accreditation

Columbia University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

4. Boston University

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston University (BU) began, rather counterintuitively, in Vermont, as the Newbury Biblical Institute in 1839. The school moved first to Concord in New Hampshire, before settling in Boston, Massachusetts, where it received its charter from the state legislature in 1869 and adopted its current name at the same time. Today, BU enrolls approximately 34,000 students coming from 130 countries. Twenty academic schools, colleges, and divisions make up the university offering more than 300 programs on the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.U.S. News & World Report ranks the school 42nd among the country’s top universities.

BU offers a master’s degree in finance online through Metropolitan College (MET), BU’s former Division of Continuing Education. MET participates in the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute University Affiliation Program and offers a curriculum that prepares students to take the CFA Program examinations. Students who complete the program earn a master of science degree in financial management. The program comprises 40 credits (10 four-credit courses) and offers two concentrations — investment analysis or international finance. Most students take 18–24 months to graduate from the program.

All students need to enroll in the following four courses:

• Corporate Finance
• Financial and Managerial Accounting
• Financial Regulation and Ethics
• Quantitative Methods of Finance

MET offers several financial assistance opportunities to qualified students, including graduate assistantships up to $4,200 per semester.U.S. News & World Report includes BU in its list of top graduate business schools in the country at number 52.

Accreditation

Boston University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Higher Education (NEASC-CIHE).

5. University of Miami

Coral Gables, Florida

Chartered in 1925, the University of Miami opened a year later with 646 full-time students. Three academic units made up the university at the time – the liberal arts college, the music school, and the evening division. The University of Miami currently comprises 11 schools offering more than 180 academic fields of study on the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, though rarely divided by time of day. Approximately 17,000 students enroll at the university today.U.S. News World Report ranks the University of Miami among the top schools in the nation at 53.

The university offers an online master’s in finance program consisting of 32 credits (eight four-credit courses). Students who complete the program graduate with a master of science degree. Although students can pursue the MS degree completely online, the program offers optional on-campus networking opportunities several times throughout the year. The school also gives students the chance to earn one of two certificates as part of the master’s program: a certificate in financial planning or a certificate in corporate finance. Most students take 16 months to graduate from the program, following a prescribed sequence of courses that cover topics such as corporate finance and investments, quantitative finance and microstructure, applied corporate finance, and international investments and valuation.

Accreditation

University of Miami is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The online master of science in finance program is regionally accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

6. Golden Gate University

San Francisco, California

Golden Gate University in San Francisco originated by offering law classes in the evenings and enrolled an initial class of four students. The school maintains its adult-oriented focus to this day and offers more than 80 undergraduate and graduate programs in the fields of accounting, business, law, management, and taxation. It currently enrolls more than 5,000 students.

The online master’s in finance degree at Golden Gate University offers three areas of concentration: general finance, corporate finance, and investment management. The program consists of 45 credits and leads to a master of science (MS) degree, and prepares graduates for the CFA examination. Students enroll in 12 credits of foundation courses (in accounting, economics, finance and mathematics), 15 credits of core coursework, and 18 credits in their area of concentration. Students who have completed comparable classes in another accredited program or school can apply to waive the foundational coursework requirement.

The 15-credit core coursework requirement consists of the following classes:

• Corporate Finance
• Financial Markets and Institutions
• Financial Modeling
• Financial Reporting and Analysis
• Investments

Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all classes taken at the university. The MS in finance program holds certification from the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute University Affiliation Program.

Accreditation

Golden Gate University is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

7. Webster University

Saint Louis, Missouri

Founded in 1915 by the Sisters of Loretto, Webster University began as Loretto College, one of the first women’s Catholic colleges west of the Mississippi River. Five colleges and schools make up the university, offering its nearly 13,000 students a variety of programs on the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.U.S. News & World Report includes the school on its best Midwest schools list, where it ranks 23rd.

Webster University offers a master’s degree in finance online through the Walker School of Business & Technology. The program leads to a master of science degree. Thirty-six credit hours make up the MS degree – 30 credits (10 courses) of required coursework and six credits of electives. The MS curriculum includes courses in managerial economics, capital budgeting and corporate investments, institutions and financial markets, and international finance. Webster’s framework of study places an emphasis on mergers and acquisitions.

Prior to beginning coursework for the MS program, applicants need to show proof of completion of the following prerequisite courses: accounting theory and practice, current economic analysis, and applied business statistics. Prerequisite courses do not count toward the total credit requirement for the MS degree.

Accreditation

Webster University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The Master of Science in Finance program is regionally accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

8. University of San Francisco

San Francisco, California

The University of San Francisco, ranked by U.S. News & World Report among the top national universities in the country, offers an online finance master’s degree through the School of Management. Students who complete the program earn a master of science degree in financial analysis. Although students can access several components of each required course for the MS degree online, the program requires students to attend onsite sessions two Saturdays each month. The school offers the 34-unit MS program on a part-time basis only and most students earn the degree in 22 months.

USF belongs to the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute University Affiliation Program and offers a curriculum that prepares graduates for the CFA examination. Applicants do not have to submit results of any standardized graduate entrance exam to be considered for admission, although they need to have at least two years of professional experience in the field.

Accreditation

University of San Francisco is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The Master of Science in Financial Analysis program is regionally accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

9. Colorado State University Global

Greenwood Village, Colorado

Colorado State University Global (CSU Global) belongs to the Colorado State University System. The school stands as the first fully online state university in the country and has a decade of experience in online education. CSU Global currently enrolls 18,000 students from more than 54 countries, and offers over 40 undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as education, criminal justice, finance, healthcare administration, and marketing and communication.

CSU Global offers an online master’s in finance program through the School of Management and Innovation. Students who complete the program graduate with a master of science (MS) degree. In addition to developing the student’s research and quantitative analysis skills, the 36-credit program covers key areas in the finance field such as capital market analysis, investments, and financial management.

Applicants to the MS program need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0. Applicants who do not meet the GPA requirement may be required to enroll in prerequisite courses that will not be counted toward the MS degree requirements. Students can transfer up to nine graduate-level credits toward the MS degree if they were earned from an accredited program.

Accreditation

Colorado State University Global is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The Master of Science in Finance program is regionally accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

10. Saint Joseph’s University

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Founded by the Jesuits in 1851, Saint Joseph’s University started out as an all-male college. Today, Saint Joseph’s University boasts a population of approximately 8,000 students and offers more than 60 bachelor’s and 53 graduate fields of study.U.S. News & World Report includes the school in its Top Regional Universities North Rankings, where the school comes in 12th.

Saint Joseph’s University offers an online master’s in finance through the Haub School of Business. The program leads to a master of science degree in financial services. Students with an undergraduate degree in business from a school accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business typically complete the program by enrolling in 10 courses (30 semester credits). Students who do not meet this qualification enroll in additional foundation courses prior to advancing to major coursework, which can increase the total degree requirement to as many as 41 semester credits.

St. Joseph’s University courses follow an asynchronous format, delivered in eight-week accelerated sessions. Students meet online one evening a week to discuss the material. The school participates in the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute University Affiliation Program. It offers a CFA-approved curriculum that meets the educational requirement for taking the CFA Certification Examination, and is a CFP-certified program.

Accreditation

Saint Joseph’s University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The master of science in financial services is regionally accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

11. Indiana University - Bloomington

Bloomington, Indiana

Established in 1820 by the state legislature, Indiana University-Bloomington enrolls close to 44,000 on-campus students pursuing degrees on the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. According to U.S. News & World Report, the university is ranked 89th for best schools in the country.

Indiana University offers an online master’s degree in finance through the Kelly School of Business. Students who complete the 30-credit hour program earn a master of science in finance degree, preparing them for careers in financial analysis, underwriting, and auditing. Most students graduate from the program in 15–36 months. All students initially enroll in finance valuation class. Only one course requires students to attend class on campus.

The Kelly School of Business holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and is ranked first by U.S. News & World Report for online graduate business programs. The program gives students the opportunity to learn about vital modern finance topics such as asset pricing and security valuation, international financial management, financial strategy and corporate restructuring, and valuation and capital investments.

Accreditation

Indiana University – Bloomington is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

12. Texas A&M University – Commerce

Commerce, Texas

Texas A&M University-Commerce expanded beyond its initial mandate to offer teacher training courses and achieved university status in 1965, adopting its current name when it joined the Texas A&M system in 1996. The university currently enrolls approximately 10,000 students and offers more than 140 fields of study at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels.

The university offers a fully online master’s in finance program with three specialization areas: corporate finance, financial planning, and investments. The program leads to a master of science degree, which requires students with adequate undergraduate preparation typically only 30 credit hours to earn. Students with insufficient academic background in finance usually need to enroll in 39 credit hours to complete the program. The school accepts scores from either the GRE or the GMAT. However, the MS program waives the GRE/GMAT requirement for well-qualified applicants.

All students, regardless of their chosen area of specialization, enroll in the following core finance courses:

• Applied Financial Research
• Derivatives & Risk Management
• Financial Management
• International Business Finance
• Investment Seminar

The MS program requires students to pass a comprehensive exam prior to receiving the MS in finance degree.

Accreditation

Texas A&M University – Commerce is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The Master of Science in Finance program is regionally accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

13. Loyola University Chicago

Chicago, Illinois

Twelve colleges make up Loyola University Chicago, offering more than 80 undergraduate majors and over 170 master’s, doctoral, and professional programs. The university currently boasts a student population of 17,000.U.S. News & World Report ranks the school among the top 100 national universities in the country (89th).

Loyola Chicago offers an online master’s in finance through the Quinlan School of Business. The program leads to a master of science in finance degree, and provides expertise in asset management, risk management, and corporate finance. Students who have completed the prerequisite coursework (calculus, statistics, introductory accounting, business finance, and micro/macroeconomics) need only 12 courses to earn the degree. Elective courses lead to three professional tracks — asset management, corporate finance, and risk management. The Quinlan School of Business holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

Applicants need a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 to be considered for the MSF program. The Quinlan School of Business accepts the scores of either the GMAT or the GRE. The school waives the GMAT/GRE requirement for certain applicants, such as those with a terminal degree (for example, MD or Ph.D.) or a 3.5 GPA in an undergraduate business program from an AACSB-accredited school.

Accreditation

Loyola University Chicago is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

14. University of Michigan - Dearborn

Dearborn, Michigan

The University of Michigan-Dearborn originally offered programs in three disciplines: business administration, industrial engineering, and mechanical engineering. Today, that number has expanded to include 74 undergraduate, 45 master’s, and six doctoral degrees.U.S. News & World Report ranks the university fifth among the top public schools in the Midwest.

The university offers an online master’s in finance through the business college, culminating in a master of science degree. The program consists of 30 credit hours for students who have adequate academic background in basic finance topics (statistics, economic analysis, finance fundamentals, and value creation). Students without adequate academic background in these areas need to enroll in additional classes as recommended.

The program allows students to transfer up to six credit hours of graduate-level coursework earned at an accredited school or program that has not been used to satisfy another degree. Applicants need to submit the results of the GMAT or the GRE. However, applicants with a degree in business or engineering or at least three years of professional experience in finance or a related field can apply to have the GRE/GMAT requirement waived.

The master’s in finance program offers concentrations in corporate finance and investments, with credit requirements being equal for both paths.

Accreditation

University of Michigan – Dearborn is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

15. Auburn University

Auburn, Alabama

Auburn University started as the East Alabama Male College in 1856. As the school’s academic offerings increased and diversified, it underwent several name changes to reflect its growth. When the college achieved university status in 1960, it took on its current name. Today, the school offers over 140 academic fields of study at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, boasting a student population of almost 30,000.

Auburn offers an online master’s in finance through the Raymond J. Harbert College of Business. The non-thesis program comprises 30 semester hours and leads to an MS degree. Before starting the MS program, students must have completed the following undergraduate courses or their equivalents: principles of microeconomics, calculus with business applications, and business analytics. Students without an adequate academic background need to enroll in prerequisite classes, which count toward the course requirements for the MS degree.

The program allows students to transfer a maximum of six graduate-level credits earned at an accredited school or program.U.S. News & World Report includes Auburn among the top business schools in the country.

Accreditation

Auburn University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The Master of Science in Finance program is regionally accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

16. University of Scranton

Scranton, Pennsylvania

Founded in 1888, the University of Scranton began as Saint Thomas College. The school took on its current name when it achieved university status in 1938. The Jesuit order took over the administration of the college in 1942. Today, the university enrolls approximately 5,300 students and offers 68 bachelor’s, 30 master’s, and three doctoral programs.U.S. News & World Report ranks the school among the best regional universities in the north.

The school offers a master’s degree in finance online through the Arthur J. Kania School of Management. The program comprises 30 credits and leads to a master of science in finance (MSF) degree. All required courses for the MSF degree follow an asynchronous delivery format. Most students graduate from the program after 12 months of continuous enrollment. The MSF curriculum prepares students for different professional certifications, including the chartered financial analyst credential.

Students enroll in classes that cover vital areas of knowledge in the financial field such as advanced financial management, investment analysis, derivative securities, and responsibility, sustainability, and justice. After completing their required coursework, students may elect to participate in a two-day, on-campus program that culminates with a Bloomberg market concepts certificate.

Accreditation

University of Scranton is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The online MSF program is regionally accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

17. University of Houston - Clear Lake

Houston, Texas

The University of Houston-Clear Lake opened in 1974 with a 60-member faculty and 1,069 students. It has since grown to include four academic units offering more than 80 fields of study at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. The university boasts a population of 9,040 students. U.S. News & World Report includes UHCL in two of its 2019 rankings:Best Regional Universities West and Top Public Schools Regional Universities West.

The College of Business at UHCL offers an online master’s in finance program comprising 30 credits. Students who enroll in two courses during the fall, spring, and summer terms usually earn the MS degree after just 18 months. A sample of available courses for the MS degree appears below:

• Managerial Economics
• Quantitative Methods in Finance
• Investment Management
• International Finance
• Financial Statement Analysis

The MS program gives students the chance to complete a 12-credit concentration in healthcare administration. Choosing this option increases the credit requirement for the MS degree to 36 credits. The program offers four courses for the healthcare administration concentration exclusively on campus and culminates with a capstone course.

Accreditation

University of Houston – Clear Lake is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The College of Business is regionally accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

18. Middle Tennessee State University

Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Middle Tennessee State University opened in 1911 with 125 students and a 19-member faculty. Originally known as the Middle Tennessee State Normal School, it began offering two-year teacher training programs. The school slowly expanded and diversified its academic offerings until it achieved university status in 1965 and took on its current name. MTSU currently enrolls 22,000 students and offers more than 240 programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.

MTSU offers an online master’s in finance through the Department of Economics and Finance at the College of Graduate Studies. The program consists of 33 semester hours and leads to an MS degree. Students can select from three concentration areas: corporate finance, investments, and general study. No matter which concentration area a student chooses, the MS program requires all students to enroll in three courses: econometrics, financial institutions, and bond market analysis.

The remainder of the credit requirements come from the concentration core, concentration elective courses, and general electives. Applicants need to submit the most recent scores of their GRE.

The department offers assistantships to qualified MS students in the form of tuition reimbursements and annual stipends. Recipients assist in faculty research projects or assume part-time teaching responsibilities.

Accreditation

Middle Tennessee State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The Department of Economics and Finance is regionally accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

19. West Texas A&M University

Canyon, Texas

Established in 1910, West Texas A&M University began as West Texas State Normal College, one of seven state-funded teachers’ colleges. The school supported a 16-member faculty and enrolled 152 students in its first year. When it achieved university status in 1963, the school changed its name to West Texas State University and adopted its current name upon joining the Texas A&M University System in 1990. Today, the university enrolls more than 10,000 students and offers study at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.U.S. News & World Report ranks the school among the best regional universities in the West.

The university offers an online master’s in finance program through the Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business. Students who complete the program earn a master of science in finance and economics (MSFE) degree. Thirty-six credits make up the MSFE program, and most students graduate after two years of continuous enrollment. Each applicant needs a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0.

Additionally, the MSFE program requires the submission of the applicant’s most recent GMAT scores. Applicants with a GPA higher than 3.0 can request for a waiver of the GMAT requirement. The MSFE curriculum offers coursework in monetary and fiscal policy, corporate governance, asset valuation, and international finance.

Accreditation

West Texas A&M University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business is regionally accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

20. Walsh College

Troy, Michigan

Established in 1922, Walsh College began as Walsh Institute, a school founded to teach a specific method of accounting. The institute enrolled 23 students in its first year. When it became an upper-division college in 1968, the school changed its name to Walsh College of Accountancy and Business Administration.

The college currently supports a student population of 4,000 and offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fields such as accounting, finance, marketing, taxation, and information technology. It remains an all-business college and one of the largest graduate schools of business in Michigan.

Walsh College offers a master’s degree in finance online with two areas of concentration: financial management and financial services. Students graduate with a master of science in finance (MSF) degree. Consisting of 33 credits, the MSF program offers registration year-round and 11-week semesters, allowing students to begin at any time and complete their studies sooner.

The program does not require the submission of scores from any standardized graduate admissions exam. Each applicant needs an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited college or university and a minimum GPA of 2.75.

The MSF curriculum provides students with the opportunity to study financial theories and practical financial instruments and tools with immediate real-world applications. They enroll in classes such as advanced managerial accounting, global economics, financial markets and institutions, and investments.

Accreditation

Walsh College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The school’s business degree programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

21. Northwood University - Michigan

Midland, Michigan

Northwood University began as Northwood Institute in 1959, a school that included the teaching of cutting-edge, ethics-driven management principles in every academic program. The institute adopted its current name when it achieved university status in 1993. Northwood University currently enrolls over 3.500 students.

NU offers an online master’s in finance through the DeVos Graduate School. The program consists of 10 courses and leads to a master of science in finance (MSF) degree. Coursework for the MSF program follows the regular semester schedule of the university. Most students graduate from the program after 24 months of continuous enrollment. MSF courses follow an asynchronous system of delivery that allows students to pursue the degree on a part-time or full-time basis. The MSF curriculum introduces students to concepts covered by the chartered financial analyst exam.

The MSF program does not require applicants to submit scores from standardized graduate admission exams. Each candidate needs a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. An applicant with a GPA below 3.0 must complete a 30-minute writing sample exercise during their interview. All students complete capstone projects on portfolio management before graduating from the program.

Accreditation

Northwood University – Michigan is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Northwood University’s business programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

22. Pennsylvania State University - World Campus

University Park, Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania State University began offering online education through its World Campus in 1998. It partners with the academic units and colleges at Penn State to offer over 150 online programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. The university currently enrolls more than 20,000 students from across the country and all over the world.

Penn State offers an online master’s in finance through Penn State Great Valley. Students graduate from the 30-credit program with a master’s in finance degree. Coursework for the master’s in finance prepares students for different professional certifications, including the chartered financial analyst certificate. Enrollees examine speculative markets, multinational managerial finance, portfolio management, and financial accounting theory.

The master’s in finance program follows a cohort model of education. Although the school offers courses online, the program requires students to attend a one-week, on-campus residency soon after enrolling in the fourth course on current issues in corporate finance. The culminating requirement for the master’s in finance degree consists of a capstone course that demonstrates a student’s grasp of the core body of knowledge and analytical abilities and strategic thinking skills developed during the program.

Accreditation

Pennsylvania State University – World Campus is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Pennsylvania State University’s online master’s in finance program is regionally accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

23. Bellevue University

Bellevue, Nebraska

Bellevue University began in 1966 as Bellevue College, an institution that offered a variety of academic options to working professionals. The school achieved university status in 1994 when it officially changed its name to Bellevue University. Four colleges currently make up the university, offering programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Bellevue University enrolls more than 9,000 students coming from all 50 states and several countries around the world.

The online master’s in finance program at the university comprises 36 credits. The program leads to a master of science in strategic finance (MFFS) degree. Students can customize their programs by choosing from 20 available areas of concentration, including acquisition and contract management, healthcare, supply chain management, and entrepreneurship.

Each student must declare a concentration during the first term in the program. The MSSF program requires all students to enroll in nine core classes before taking part in courses in their concentration area. The MSSF curriculum includes coursework in financial management and strategy, business analysis for decision-making, accounting for performance management, and risk management.

The MSSF program does not require students to submit scores from standardized graduate admission exams. Each applicant needs either a minimum GPA of 2.5 from the most recent 60 credits of undergraduate coursework or a GPA of at least 3.0 in previous graduate-level courses. All credits must come from an accredited college or university.

Accreditation

Bellevue University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

24. Suffolk University

Boston, Massachusetts

Suffolk University began as the Suffolk School of Law in 1906, with the school’s founder teaching evening law classes in the living room of his home. The school soon moved to downtown Boston as enrollment increased and received its charter in 1914. By 1930, it was the largest evening law school in the country. Four years later, the school achieved university status and soon changed its name to Suffolk University. Today, the university enrolls over 7,000 students and offers academic fields of study at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.

Suffolk University offers a fully online master’s in finance with three areas of concentration: corporate finance, risk management, and investments. The program comprises 32–47 credits and leads to a master of science in finance (MSF) degree. Before enrolling in finance core courses, students must master managerial economics, data analytics, corporate financial reporting and control, and value-based financial management.

The university participates in the chartered financial analyst (CFA) institute university affiliation program as a global association of risk professionals (GARP) academic partner. The MSF curriculum prepares graduates to sit for professional certifications such as the chartered financial analyst.

Accreditation

Suffolk University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Higher Education (NEASC-CIHE). The MSF program is regionally accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

Masters Finance Programs Rankings

25. Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, New Hampshire

Southern New Hampshire University opened in 1932 as the New Hampshire Accounting & Secretarial School, a small private training school for bookkeepers that initially enrolled just seven day students and 35 evening students. The school increased and diversified its academic offerings until it became a college in 1958 and finally a university in 2001. SNHU currently enrolls more than 3,000 on-campus students and offers over 200 programs at the certificate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.

The online master’s in finance program at the university comprises 36 credits and offers concentrations in corporate finance, investments, and securities. Although the program does not culminate with an industry certification, the curriculum aligns with chartered financial analysis (CFA) competencies and standards. It includes coursework that prepares graduates to sit for the CFA exam.

Students enroll in courses that cover topics like money and capital markets, international corporate finance, managerial economics, and investment analysis and portfolio management. The MS degree requires each student to complete a capstone course that assesses their ability to integrate the key learning concepts of the program.

Accreditation

Southern New Hampshire University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The master of science in finance program is regionally accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

26. Pace University

New York, New York

Pace University launched in 1906 as Pace Institute, a school for accountancy and business. Operating out of one classroom converted from rented space in the New York Tribune Building, the institute enrolled 13 men and women in its first year. The school became a college in 1947 and finally a university in 1973. Today, Pace enrolls 13,000 students to offer more than 150 fields of study at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.

The university offers an online master’s degree in finance through the Lubin School of Business. The program consists of 36 credits and leads to an MS degree. Designed for completion within 12 months, the MS program follows a cohort model and targets individuals who already work in business or financial fields. The school offers six-credit modules every eight weeks, with each module requiring weekend residencies in New York City. Each student needs to complete a capstone research project before earning the degree.

The MS program does not require applicants to submit scores from standardized graduate admission exams. Instead, the program’s academic director schedules a face-to-face interview with each applicant in New York City. Aspiring students who cannot come to New York City for the interview can schedule video conference calls.

Accreditation

Pace University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

27. University of Maryland - University College

Adelphi, Maryland

Established in 1947 as the College of Special and Continuation Studies, University of Maryland University College began as a branch of the College of Education of the University of Maryland. Soon after, the school began providing for the educational needs of U.S. servicemen and women stationed all over the world.

To this day, service members and working professionals continue to make up a large portion of UMUC’s student population. It became an independent institution in 1970 and now offers more than 90 degrees, specializations, and certificates on the undergraduate and graduate levels.

UMUC offers an online program in accounting and financial management comprising 36 credits that leads to an MS degree. The program helps prepare students for various accounting and financial management certifications, including the certified internal auditor and chartered financial analyst exams. UMUC offers all the required courses for the MS degree online, although some courses follow a hybrid delivery format and include on-site components.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, applicants must have completed at least 15 credits of undergraduate accounting courses with a minimum grade of C or higher. Each student needs to complete a capstone course before graduating from the program.

Accreditation

University of Maryland – University College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

28. SUNY Empire State College

Saratoga Springs, New York

From the time it was established in 1971, SUNY Empire State College set out to meet the educational needs of working professionals. Faculty members guide each student in designing a customized degree program that supports their academic and professional goals. The college currently enrolls approximately 11,000 students and offers programs at the bachelor’s and master’s levels.

The online master of finance program at SUNY Empire State College comprises 36 credits and offers three tracks: corporate finance, international finance, and general finance. The program leads to an MS degree. The MS curriculum aligns with the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute’s Candidate Body of Knowledge and helps prepare students for the CFA certification exam. Each applicant needs an undergraduate background or demonstrable professional experience in financial accounting, macro/microeconomics, statistics, and management information systems.

Students take nine credits of foundation coursework and 12 credits each of advanced core and elective courses, with the latter making up their areas of concentration. To meet the credit requirement of the MS degree, each student enrolls in a three-credit capstone course in global financial strategy. Full-time enrollees typically graduate in 20 months, while part-time students usually complete the program in 24–27 months.

Accreditation

SUNY Empire State College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

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What is a Master’s in Finance Degree?

A master’s in finance degree provides students with the advanced graduate education they need to pursue a diverse array of professions in finance. Students typically engage in core coursework covering the fundamental aspects of finance, such as financial market analysis, portfolio management, and corporate finance, plus elective coursework that delves into niche areas, sometimes with options for specialization or hands-on learning through internship opportunities.

Students in master’s in finance programs typically develop quantitative skills to evaluate financial information, make financial decisions, choose and evaluate portfolios, and manage risk. Students learn to apply financial strategies to practical business issues.

The Advantages of a Master’s Degree in Finance

Finance professionals who hold master’s degrees tend to earn higher median salaries than those with just their bachelor’s, substantiating an investment in a master’s degree in finance online. According to PayScale, stock brokers — who must hold a bachelor’s degree — earn a median annual salary of around $56,000, whereas investment bankers with a master’s in finance typically gross over $97,000 annually. This nearly 75% increase in median salary exhibits one part of the payoff of obtaining a master’s degree in finance.

Prospective employers recognize the work ethic, time management, and grit required to work full time while enrolled in graduate school. These skills directly parallel those required of a senior financial adviser. Careers in the financial market often overlap with the overarching business industry. Specializing in finance at the master’s level concentrates your expertise and sharpens your decision-making skills for algorithmic trading. Pursuing this degree can fuel your career trajectory and serve as a stepping stone for investment researchers and teachers who want to obtain their doctorate later on.

Average Salary by Degree Level

Online Master’s in Finance Programs

Earning an online master’s in finance allows learners to access the same engagement as on-campus courses, but without the time sacrifice of weekly commutes. Students can choose more competitive programs while also balancing their workload and honoring familial commitments. Online programs and institutions facilitate courses through each institution’s learning platform of choice, which students use to read course syllabi, watch lectures, and submit assignments.

Prospective online students should consider how each program delivers its lectures and whether it uses a synchronous or asynchronous format. Synchronous programs require students to watch lectures and participate in real-time class discussions at set times and days. Asynchronous programs, on the other hand, supply pre-recorded lectures and discussion boards for students to complete at their own pace in accordance with course deadlines.

Even with asynchronous programs, students should check for any on-campus requirements, such as group meetings or learning activities. The problem-solvers and ambitious jugglers looking to advance their financial careers typically enjoy the adaptability of online master’s in finance programs.

What’s the Difference Between a Master’s in Finance vs. an MBA in Finance?

Both degrees provide the graduate education needed for a variety of lucrative professions in finance. However, a master’s in finance is a more specialized degree, whereas an MBA is more generalized. A master’s in finance dedicates the entire program to the study of finance, delving into niche knowledge, skills, and approaches to success in finance professions. An MBA in finance, on the other hand, provides some specialized focus in finance while also providing a broader approach to the study of business administration — emphasizing managerial practices, organizational management, and other related concepts.

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What Can You Do With a Master’s in Finance?

Obtaining a master’s degree in finance diversifies your resume, freeing you to capitalize on career options and accrue promotional payoffs. Finance careers rely on analytical thinking, detail orientation, negotiation expertise, and quick decision-making. Students must demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills to translate seemingly abstract and complex financial language into layman’s terms. The ultimate salesperson achieves a balance between data-driven skills and customer orientation.

• Entry Level: $66,000
• Mid-Career: $92,000
• Experienced: $102,000
• Late Career: $122,000

• Entry Level: $93,000
• Mid-Career: $146,000
• Experienced: $148,000
• Late Career: $228,000

• Entry Level: $70,000
• Mid-Career: $80,000
• Experienced: $97,000
• Late Career: $110,000

• Entry Level: $73,000
• Mid-Career: $109,000
• Experienced: $129,000
• Late Career: $118,000

Free Personal Finance Programs

• Entry Level: $68,000
• Mid-Career: $95,000
• Experienced: $111,000
• Late Career: $134,000

Source: PayScale

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Choosing an Online Finance Graduate Degree Program

Given the array of distance learning choices, prospective students might find it difficult to choose an online master’s in finance program. When looking into colleges, start with the key factors of cost, school type and size, program length, transfer policies, on-campus prerequisites, and graduation requirements to narrow the search. Take your time exploring choices and assessing the most important factors of each prospective program to choose one that best suits your career plans.

Program Cost:

With the increased supply of reputable online schools, most distance learning programs offer in-state tuition rates to all distance learners, regardless of their state of residence. Moreover, financial aid departments provide guidance for scholarship and grant applications. For prospective programs with on-campus requirements, consider staying in your home state.

Transfer Policies:

Graduate departments typically approve up to a certain number of transfer credits from prior coursework, though policies vary by institution. State universities often honor credits from nearby community colleges. Regionally accredited schools typically meet more rigorous standards than nationally accredited institutions, meaning credits from regionally accredited schools tend to transfer more easily.

School Size and Type:

Public universities receive financial support from the state, while private institutions secure funding from endowments and religiously affiliated organizations. This impacts tuition costs and scholarship opportunities. To compete with the subsidized tuition offered by state colleges, private programs often grant more financial aid. Graduate courses often offer smaller class sizes than undergraduate general education courses. Regardless of in-person or virtual delivery, larger class sizes create less personal environments. Expect smaller class sizes for an online master’s program in finance.

Program Length:

Full-time students typically take two years to complete their online master’s in finance degrees. Part-time students may take three years or more to finish their degrees. Depending on individual schools, credits total anywhere from 33–38 hours, covering business foundations, functional core courses and electives.

On-Campus Requirements:

Most online programs administer courses entirely online. However, some professors may require students to attend on-campus meetings for group activities or campus-wide career services events. When considering online schools, explore programs within driving distance in case you need or want to attend an on-campus event.

Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements:

Students in graduate school typically choose between three paths to meet their final program requirements. Learners who plan to pursue a doctorate often choose to complete a thesis. Because of the advanced curriculum combining theory and practice, online master’s in finance programs suggest that applicants gain work experience between completing their undergraduate degree and applying for graduate school.

Finance Schools and Programs Specialized Accreditation

Universities and their online programs adhere to set ethics and performance standards, stipulated by an accrediting body. As you begin your research of online graduate programs, look out for two primary types of accreditation: institutional and programmatic.

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Regionally accredited schools divide into seven geographic regions, in which they voluntarily report to their designated nonprofit agency. Regionally accredited organizations typically meet a higher standard than their nationally accredited counterparts, and therefore they generally do not recognize transfer credits from nationally accredited programs.

Programmatic accrediting bodies oversee specific schools by respective industry. For finance students, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International accredits business programs. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) bestows federal grants and student loans and funds education-related research. The Council on Higher Education Accreditation tangentially supports ED and the quality control of higher education, maintaining a related database that allows you to search by institution, program, and accreditor.

How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Master’s in Finance Degree Program?

Full-time students typically complete their programs in 12 to 16 months, while part-time students usually take 24 months to finish their degrees.

Finance Concentrations

Whether you see yourself as an analyst, manager, director, or adviser, each role proves vital to the financial market. Professionals apply different trade-specific methodologies and regulations in each of the five main concentrations. Consulting firms, retail banks, wealth management institutions, and investment banks all employ professionals with these titles.

Wealth Management:

This concentration prepares students to advise clients on financial services, including portfolio management, asset management, mergers and acquisitions, estate planning, and investment management. They work with corporations, small business owners, and individuals to develop strategies to meet financial goals. Advisory positions involve consulting, financial planning, and analysis.

Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Financial Adviser, Investment Analyst, Financial Planner

Real Estate Finance:

Graduates interested in commercial or residential real estate explore types of mortgage capital, government assisted funding, subjects of present or future value, APR, compound interest, foreclosures, shorts sales, and tax effects in this concentration. Students learn about underwriting, processing, closing, and servicing loans. Experts in financial real estate work for banks, developers, and commercial lending firms.

Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Loan Officer, Underwriter, Mortgage Broker, Real Estate Asset Manager

Corporate Finance:

This concentration teaches degree seekers to manage the financial wellbeing of corporations by generating compliant financial statements and evaluating long-term organizational health with data collection and models. For example, by acquiring capital and selling assets when needed, professionals in this field actualize the goals set by the C-level suite and board members.

Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Financial Analyst, Chief Financial Officer, Finance Director

Investment Banking and Research:

Investment bankers and researchers focus on the buying or selling side of financial services. Learners studying the sales side analyze how brokers and bankers trade and promote securities (debit, equity, derivatives). Those considering the buying side delve into how hedge funds, asset managers, and investors look after private equity funds, unit trusts, mutual funds, and other pools of capital. Analysts investigate and practice valuation tools and modeling.

Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Mergers and Acquisitions Manager, Commercial Banker, Quantitative Researcher, Stock Broker, Actuary

Advisory Services and Consulting:

Many finance graduates pursue the consulting and advisory concentration because its highly competitive nature increases long-term career marketability. This field entails transaction advisory and core business services in the areas of risk management, tax, and assurance. Consultants evaluate client systems and processes, then develop and implement models to optimize revenue generation.

Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Transactional Adviser, Senior Auditor, Lead Budget Analyst

Courses in an Online Master’s in Finance Program

Financial Modeling:

This required course covers the standard models applied by all types of financial professionals. Students implement mathematical and computational archetypes in the subjects of cash flow valuation, risk measurement and management, capital estimation, optimization techniques, and regression analysis. By studying theory and applying models to practical situations, learners practice the skills financial managers use every day.

Corporate Valuation:

With the main objective of adding corporate value, graduates work through the theory and application of organizational finance policy, budgeting, restructuring, mergers and acquisitions, tax responsibility, and investment options. They also survey and use key valuation tools. Learners hoping to one day serve as chief financial officers gain the instrumental skills needed for the job in this course.

Financial Reporting:

This functional core course delivers the foundational aspects of financial reports in two parts. Students learn to create and evaluate corporate reports, including their key asset, liability, and equity components. In this class, degree seekers acquire the tools to financially assess a company’s position and forecast future health.

Negotiations:

Prospective financial service employers frequently request that applicants possess strong negotiation skills. This course fosters communication and interpersonal expertise by reviewing case studies and mock simulations. Learners analyze the bargaining styles, mediation strategies, and ethical issues of deal-making across the dynamic structures of teams and coalitions, and with agent influences.

Audit Institutions and Processes:

Graduates explore the concepts, risks, and procedures of the auditing process. Topics include professional ethics, the impacts of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, corporate compliance, the board of directors, liability, and fraudulent financial reporting. This course typically serves as an elective that prepares prospective accountants for the certified public accountant exam.

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Finance Membership Associations

Online degree seekers should take advantage of the abundance of professional support and institutional resources provided by financial services organizations. With the federal government closely monitoring all fiscal activities and behaviors, financiers should stay current on policy news and regulations. The top financial membership associations make this easier than ever, as do educational and leadership opportunities.

National Investment Banking Association

NIBA strives to connect public and private financial professionals to the broader investment community. The group produces annual conferences and program internships. Members can market their services by applying to present at or sponsor the conference.

Securities and Exchange Commission

The federally run SEC funds industry research, enforces securities regulation, protects buyers, and governs the financial market. It administers publicly accessible databases that keep track of investment advisers and court records of violations. The commission also publishes reports and publications, holds offices in all areas of finance, and supplies educational and regulatory materials for professionals.

Association of International Wealth Management

This global nonprofit began at the training center for the Swiss Financial Analysts Associations and now boasts more than 3,500 manager and analyst members in the fields of investment banking and wealth management. By awarding certificates and diplomas, members receive recognition for their advanced financial training and service to asset holders.

Association of Financial Professionals

AFP designed and administers the credentials required of certified treasury professionals and certified corporate financial planning and analysis professionals. The association hosts the world’s largest networking conference for corporate finance professionals. Additionally, the 6,500 members benefit from AFP’s training programs and published resources.

Certified Financial Planner Board

This nonprofit organization grants certifications to financial planners. The CFP Board governs the practice of financial planning by administering the CFP exam, updating policy research, hosting a summit, and maintaining a publicly available database of certified planners. The board’s women’s initiative champions female financial planners and aims to narrow the gender gap in the field.

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This list refers to specific master's degrees in North America. Please see master's degree for a more general overview.

Accountancy[edit]

Master of Accountancy (MAcc, MAc, MAcy or MPAcc), alternatively Master of Professional Accountancy (MPAcy or MPA), or Master Science in Accountancy (MSAcy) is typically a one-year, non-thesis graduate program designed to prepare graduates for public accounting and to provide them with the 150 credit hours required by most states before taking the CPA exam.

Master of Accounting (MAcc) is an 8-month degree offered by the University of Waterloo, School of Accounting and Finance in Canada that satisfies the 51 credit hours and CKE exam requirement needed to write the Chartered Accountant Uniform Final Exam (UFE) in the province of Ontario. The School also delivers a Master of Taxation program. The School is housed in the Faculty of Arts.

Master of Professional Accounting (MPAcc) is a two-year, non-thesis graduate program offered by the University of Saskatchewan in Canada

Administration[edit]

Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Management (MAM), Master of Accountancy (MAcy), Master of Science in Taxation (MST), Master of Science in Finance (MSF), Master of Business and Organizational Leadership (MBOL), Master of Engineering Management (MEM), Master of Health Administration (MHA), Master of Not-for-Profit Leadership (MNPL), Master of Public Policy (MPP), Master of Public Administration (MPA), Master of International Affairs (MIA), Master of Global Affairs (MGA), Master of Strategic Planning for Critical Infrastructures (MSPCI), Master of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSSL), and Master of Science in Management (MSM) are professional degrees focusing on management for the private and public sectors, both domestic and international.

Adult Education[edit]

While other advanced degree education programs tend to be more widely known, the Master of Science in Adult Education provides professional educators with expert-level tools for success in the adult learning environment and advancement in educational leadership. As the name suggests, this degree program provides ample opportunity for the student to take a more scientific approach to the study of education. Many M.S. Adult Education programs offer concentrations in Community Service and Health Sciences (non-profit realm), Human Resources, Technology (distance learning), and Training and Development (corporate or for-profit environment).

Advanced Study[edit]

In the United States the Master of Advanced Study (M.A.S.) also the Master of Advanced Studies (MAS)^[1] degree is a post-graduateprofessional degree issued by numerous academic institutions, but most notably by the University of California. M.A.S. programs tend to 'concentrate on a set of coordinated coursework with culminating projects or papers rather than emphasizing student research' and frequently are structured as interdisciplinary offerings.^[2]

In Canada, the Master of Advanced Study degree is an independent research degree.

Advanced Studies programs tend to be interdisciplinary and tend to be focused toward meeting the needs of professionals rather than academics.

Applied Anthropology[edit]

The Master of Applied Anthropology (MAA) is a two-year program focused on training non-academic anthropologists. The University of Maryland, College Park developed this program to encourage entrepreneurial approaches to careers outside academia, where most new anthropologists are likely to seek and find employment. For this reason, it is considered a professional degree rather than a liberal arts degree.

Applied Politics[edit]

The Master of Applied Politics is a 2-year master's degree program offered by The Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics at The University of Akron. It is one of the few professional master's degree programs in the United States focusing on practical politics and efforts to influence political decisions. This includes winning elections, campaigning, fund raising, influencing legislation and strengthening political organizations. MAP graduates have gone on to manage campaigns, run for political office, join polling and fundraising firms, and start their own consulting firms.

Applied Sciences[edit]

The two Master's programs offered in Management Sciences provide both course work and research opportunities in the areas of operations research, information systems, management of technology, engineering and other areas. Operations research, mathematical modeling, economics, and organizational behavior, and other related concepts underlie success in almost all areas of management. Refer to the Master of Engineering degree section for more information.

Architecture[edit]

The 4+3 or 5-year Master of Architecture (M.Arch. I) is a first professional degree, after which one is eligible for internship credit [and subsequent exam] required for licensure. The 2-year Master of Architecture (M.Arch. II) is a graduate-level program which assumes previous coursework in architecture (B.Arch. or M. Arch I).

Archival Studies[edit]

The Master of Archival Studies degree is awarded following completion of a program of courses in archival science, records management and preservation. The degree was first offered at the University of British Columbia (Canada), and is currently offered at Clayton State University (Georgia). The Master of Archives and Records Administration is offered by San Jose State University (California).

Bioinformatics[edit]

The Master of Science in Bioinformatics degree builds on a background in biology and computing. Students learn how to develop software tools for the storage and manipulation of biological data. Graduates typically work in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industries or in biomedical research. The career prospects are excellent.^[3]MS in Bioinformatics programs include Georgia Tech, IUPUI, among others.

Biomedical Sciences[edit]

The Master of Biomedical Sciences (MBS) degree prepares students to be highly competitive candidates for medical schools, related health professions, and other biomedical careers. The curriculum integrates graduate level human biological sciences with skill development in critical thinking, communication and teamwork.

Chemistry[edit]

The Masters of Science in Chemistry is a degree that prepares recipients for jobs as higher-level industrial chemists, laboratory technicians, and for doctorate programs in Chemistry. Schools often offer two programs - a coursework-based masters and a research-based masters. The coursework masters is offered through completion of a number of graduate level chemistry classes and may require the recipient to complete a research proposal to demonstrate their expertise. The research masters is offered through completion a certain number of hours devoted to academic chemistry research, classes related to the research being performed, and the completion of a thesis consisting of the research completed during the masters and its impact of the research on the field.

Christian Education[edit]

The Master of Arts in Christian Education is a seminary degree primarily designed for those in the field of church ministry. Various specializations include children's ministry and youth ministry, among others. Thus, many children's pastors and youth pastors obtain the degree, while senior pastors usually pursue the Master of Divinity degree. The degree is usually obtained in 2–3 years.

City and Regional Planning[edit]

Master of City and Regional Planning (MCRP) is a professional degree in the study of urban planning.

Clinical Medical Science[edit]

Clinical Medical Science is a professional degree awarded to Physician Assistants.

Communication[edit]

The Department of Communication of the University of Ottawa offers a Master of Arts (MA) in Communication degree with thesis or with research paper.

The program focuses on five fields of specialization: media studies; organizational communication; health communication; identity and diversity in communication; government communication.

Both teaching and research explore major issues related to new information and communication technologies in media and organizations at the national and international levels.^[4]

The academic department of Art History & Communication Studies at the McGill University offers Master of Arts (M.A.) degrees, which are differentiated either as Interdisciplinary (Thesis/Non-Thesis) or as Noninterdisciplinary (Thesis/Non-Thesis) programs. The duration for a Non-Thesis option is two years of full-time study. The period for a Thesis option may last longer, depending also on the required level of courses and complexity of the thesis. Students who are admitted to the Interdisciplinary Thesis option Communication Studies - Gender and Women's Studies (incl. e.g. psychology and/or other subjects) might have to earn 'very high research' credits at the 700-PhD-level, and they may need to complete their program in the maximum of three years of full-time candidature.

Computer Science[edit]

The Master of Science in Computer Science and Master of Science in Information Technology are graduate degrees for Information Technology professionals and Computer Engineers. They are generally based on core computer science subjects where knowledge can be used for advanced work especially in Information Technology industry. The Bachelor level degree provides a well-balanced foundation in Information Technology. The Master's degree allows the advancement of core knowledge and an opportunity to specialize in selected technology areas of interest. The Master of Information Technology is one of the most sought degrees in the field of Computer Science and Information Technology and is much sought-after by employers in the Information Technology marketplace. This degree certifies that the holder is competent in all key areas of the Information Technology sector and has contributed specialized knowledge, research, and publications.^{[citation needed]}

Community Health and Prevention Research[edit]

A Master of Science in Community Health and Prevention Research is a graduate degree for students interested in advancing health in communities through evidence based science. The degree is similar to a public health degree with an emphasis on epidemiology, measurement, research, and statistics in the coursework though with a strong applied focus and emphasis on community engagement; theory and applied principles of behavior change; and intervention development, evaluation, and dissemination. Programs may combine in-class instruction, faculty and peer-to-peer mentoring, with community-based internships. The objective is to prepare future health professionals to responsibly and effectively address health challenges faced by diverse communities across the life course.

Criminal Justice[edit]

The Master of Criminal Justice is a professional degree in the study of criminal justice. The program is designed as a terminal degree for professionals in the field of criminal justice or as preparation for doctoral programs. It may also be referred to as a Master of Science in Justice Administration (M.S.J.A.).

Cross-Cultural and International Education[edit]

This master's degree, offered by Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio, prepares professional educators to be effective leaders in the internationalization of schools and communities and to be positive facilitators of cross-cultural understanding. The focus of this degree program is to prepare a global educator who is able to:

• lead in internationalizing curriculum

• foster international educational partnerships

• infuse education policy and practice with cross-cultural awareness.

Cross-cultural and international education is defined as the examination of education from diverse perspectives in international, transnational, and global contexts. The topics that students address in this program transcend national boundaries. This differs from multicultural education which specifically examines issues within a single nation.

The program connects cultural and international understanding with educational theory and practice through a unique combination of courses from several disciplines at BGSU. Students construct the academic basis for their program from select courses in the College of Education and Human Development and other colleges on campus. The students then apply this academic foundation to a practical cross-cultural/ international internship experience. Current students are participating in a variety of internships in formal and non-formal settings, including international sites in China, South Africa, Vietnam and Belize, and domestically with Indigenous students in Alaska and Mexican migrant populations in Ohio. Students complete the MACIE program with a capstone seminar or a master's thesis.^[5]

Cultural Studies[edit]

This master's degree is a one or two year degree that allows students to engage the heterogeneous body of theories and practices associated with cultural studies and critical theory in the critical investigation of culture.

Cyber Security[edit]

The Master of Information and Cybersecurity (MICS) is an interdisciplinary degree program that examines computer security technologies as well as human factors in information security, including the economic, legal, behavioral, and ethical impacts of the cybersecurity domain.

A Master of Science in Cyber Security is typically seated within the computer science discipline and is focused on the technical aspects of cybersecurity.

Other cybersecurity masters degree programs focus on policy and legal aspects of cybersecurity.

Data Science[edit]

Master in Interdisciplinary Data Science and Master of Information and Data Science (MIDS) are professional graduate degrees in Data Science designed to help meet the need for knowledgeable data scientists who can answer important questions with ^[6].Programs typically include courses on instructional design, learning theories, educational media, instructional messaging, related theory, and research methods. Some institutions use the term instructional technology to refer to their programs. Although some experts within the field distinguish between educational and instructional technology, on a practical level, the two are essentially synonymous.

Master's in Educational Technology programs are offered in at least one university in nearly every US state, and in many countries outside of the United States, including Australia, Canada, China, Singapore, South Korea, and Turkey.

One of the oldest programs in North America is based in the Department of Education at Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, which has graduated approximately 2,000 master's degree and over 150 PhD students in its 50 years. Students can study full- or part-time, preparing to use their skills and knowledge to design curricula and programs, integrate technology, advise on educational technology policy, and conduct related research for schools, higher education, workplace learning, and community and informal learning. ^[7].

The University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada offers a part-time program within the Faculty of Education, focusing on curriculum design and technology integration.^[8]

The one-year professional Masters in Educational Technology and Applied Learning Science (METALS) is an interdisciplinary program offer by Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is jointly taught by the Human-Computer Interaction in the School of Computer Science and Psychology in Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences. The program is an outgrowth of the research conducted by the National Science Foundation's Science of Learning Center, LearnLab, in which more than 200 researchers produced over 1600 publications and talks.^[9] METALS trains students to design, develop and evaluate evidenced-based programs for learning in settings that range from schools to homes, workplaces to museums, and online to offline learning environments. Students with backgrounds in psychology, education, computer science, design, information technology, or business are encouraged to apply.

Electronic Business Technologies[edit]

The Master in Electronic Business Technologies is an interdisciplinary master's program offered at the University of Ottawa in Ontario, Canada.^[10]

Engineering[edit]

The Master of Engineering(Magister in Ingeniaria) degree is awarded to students who have done graduate work at the master's level in the field of engineering. In the United States, engineering candidates are typically awarded MS degrees, although a growing number of schools also offer an MEng (e.g. the University of California, Berkeley). The distinction between the two programs varies between schools, but the MS is largely considered an academic degree, whereas the MEng is a professional degree. In the UK and Canada, candidates are generally awarded MSc, MASc or MEng degrees.

In Canada, the Master of Applied Science (MASc) is awarded to master's degree students with a research focus (having completed work leading to a thesis), while an MEng is awarded to master's degree students with a coursework focus and the completion of a research paper. The distinction between MASc and MEng is not definite since some universities grant only an MEng and some universities grant only an MASc, be it either research or coursework-focused.

In Francophone universities, the Master's Degree is referred to as a Maîtrise. The Master of Applied Science translates to Maîtrise des sciences appliquées and is abbreviated MScA. The Maîtrise in Canada is not equivalent to the Maîtrise in France, nor is the Baccalauréat. Canadian French-language degree and title nomenclature are consistent to North American custom. The MEng title translates to MIng, though this title cannot be used in one's signature in Québec (nor can BIng), as the title ing. (equivalent of P.Eng. in other provinces) is reserved for members of the provincial board of engineers, the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec.

The Master of Science in Engineering is a post-graduate degree to be differentiated from the Master of Engineering. It requires a thesis and qualifies students holding it to apply for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Engineering.

Environment[edit]

Environment - Available at Concordia University, Montréal, and Université de Sherbrooke (French).

Environmental Design[edit]

The Master of Urban Planning (MUP), Master of City and Regional Planning (MCRP), Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP), Master of Environmental Design (MED) ^[11] and Master of City Planning (MCP) are professional degrees in the study of urban planning.

Environmental Management[edit]

UC Santa Barbara

Master of Land and Water Systems, University of British Columbia

Environmental Science[edit]

Environmental Science offered at University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Environmental Studies[edit]

Environmental Studies

Finance[edit]

The Master of Science in Finance is a common degree in the corporate finance and investment finance world. Finance's answer to accounting's MAcc.

Fine Arts[edit]

The Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) is a two to three-year terminal degree in a creative field of study, such as theatre arts, creative writing, filmmaking, or studio art. The Institute for Doctoral Studies in The Visual Arts offers a low-residency PhD in art theory, philosophy, and aesthetics to visual artists, architects, curators, and creative scholars.

Forensic Science and Law[edit]

The Master of Science in Forensic Science and Law is a degree program available at Duquesne University. It combines all applications of Forensic Science with Law and its application and legal use before a court of law.

Other Universities offer bachelor's degrees in this field and several other universities have applied for accreditation for their programs from the American Academy of Forensic Science.

Forensic Sciences[edit]

The Master of Forensic Sciences (MFS) is a specialized professional degree designed for law enforcement, lab personnel, attorneys, investigators and other professionals.

Forestry[edit]

A master of forestry degree is offered by Duke University and Yale University.

Global Affairs[edit]

The Master of Science in Global Affairs is a degree program available at New York University. The 42-credit curriculum is designed to help students unravel the complex relationships between nations and key international factors and make sense of world events. Coursework covers subjects ranging from economic globalization and the issues facing developing countries to conflict resolution and international law.

The Master of Global Affairs (MGA) is a two-year professional degree offered by the Munk School within the University of Toronto. The interdisciplinary degree aims to equip students with an awareness of global financial systems, global civil society, and global governance to prepare students for strategic thinking and responsible leadership on global issues.

Health Administration[edit]

Master of Health Administration (MHA) is a two-year degree similar to an MBA but instead is focused on health care systems rather than businesses in general.

Health Science[edit]

The Master of Health Science is awarded to students who have completed a post-graduate course of study in health sciences or health policy fields, usually associated with the Public Health field. The MHS is often a more focused program for public health professionals, often with non-health professional backgrounds. This degree is abbreviated as MHSc in Canada. New degree programs in the US, include MSHS (Master of Science in Health Sciences) that relate to this same particular program type are also becoming more common as universities and medical schools develop more degree specialties throughout the US.

Historic Preservation[edit]

The Master of Science in Historic Preservation (MSHP) is a graduate degree, often offered through schools and colleges of architecture, which focuses on the theory and practical elements of preserving buildings of historic importance. There are only a few programs in the United States, but all of the programs tend to focus on architectural conservation, design, history/theory, preservation planning, building analysis, and preservation law.^[12]

The Master of Arts in Historic Preservation provides training in the research, documentation, and preservation of the historic built environment. Typically the MAHP is differentiated from the Master of Historic Preservation MHP by an emphasis on historic research and writing, and is usually housed in history departments.

Historic Preservation[edit]

The Master of Historic Preservation (MHP) is a two to two and a half year degree in the field of historic preservation. The MHP is usually considered a terminal degree, although a few Phd programs exist offering historic preservation as a concentration within another field such as community planning. Commonly MHP programs are housed in history, planning, or architecture departments. Interdisciplinary by nature, MHP programs typically consist of courses in architectural history, history and theory of preservation practice, cultural landscape preservation, historic resource documentation and evaluation, community planning, and rehabilitation philosophy and practice.^[12]

History[edit]

The Master of Arts in History provides an opportunity for further study of the world's great personalities, events, nations, trends, periods, conflicts, and markings of progress. Many students who graduate with this degree go on to become teachers, professors, historians, researchers, museum curators, and sometimes lawyers.

Human-Computer Interaction[edit]

The Master of Human-computer interaction is a professional degree that focuses on the training and research around topics related to human-computer interaction (HCI). Human-computer interaction, while touches upon areas of research covered by computer science, psychology, cognitive science, social sciences, design, media and other fields of studies, is often categorized under the department of computer science or information science. And students who pursue their graduate studies in this area usually receive a degree of master of computer science or master of information science.

There is a limit amount of institutions that offer a master's degree directly under HCI. The Master of human-computer interaction (MHCI), a program at Carnegie Mellon University offered by the Human-Computer Interaction Institute (HCII), is the first program that is solely focused on professional training for students who wish to pursue a career in human-computer interaction related area.^[13] There are similar programs offered by other institution, such as Master of Human-Computer Interaction and Design (MHCI+D) by University of Washington, Master of Science in Human-Computer Interaction (MS in HCI) by Georgia Tech, and Master of Science in HCI by Indiana University, Bloomington.^[14][15][16] These programs often consist of academic learning experiences in research and design and industry training in client relation and project management. Students are usually expected to gain a professional proficiency for HCI related topics in an industry setting.

Human Factors[edit]

The Master of Science in Human Factors (MSHF) degree focuses on human factors and ergonomics in systems and processes.

Humanities[edit]

The Master of Arts in Humanities degree requires two years in an accredited college.

Industrial and Labor Relations[edit]

Industrial and Labor Relations.

Industrial Design[edit]

Master of Industrial Design is a two- or three-year program in the field of industrial design.

The MID acronym is also used for a Master of International Development, which is a postgraduate degree in the study of developmental economics, non-governmental organizations and civil society, development planning, environmental sustainability, and human security.

Information[edit]

The Master of Science in Information (MSI) is a graduate degree designed for information science professionals.

Information Management[edit]

The Master of Science in Information Management (MSIM) is a graduate degree designed for information management professionals.

Information Systems[edit]

The Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) is a graduate degree designed for information systems professionals. The Master of Information Systems (MIS or MSIS) is a 2-year degree geared towards professionals trained in both management and information systems. The culmination of both fields is often referred to as management information systems. The Master of Information Systems is sometimes extended with additional courses such as those focused on management (MISM or MISM), or information security (MISIS, MISIS).

Information Technology[edit]

The Master of Science in Information Technology is a graduate degree designed for information technology professionals. It is generally based on core computer science subjects where knowledge can be used for advanced work, especially in Information Technology industry. Whereas the Bachelor level degree provides a well-balanced foundation in Information Technology, the Master's degree allows the student not only further advancement of core knowledge, but also an opportunity to specialize in selected technology areas of interest. The Master of Information Technology is one of the most sought degrees in the field of Computer Science and Information Technology and is much sought-after by employers in the Information Technology marketplace. This degree ensures that the person who has attained this degree is competent in all key areas of Information Technology sector and has further advanced this with specialized knowledge, research, and publications.

Interactive Media[edit]

The Master of Science in Interactive Media is a graduate degree offered by Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut. Through a balance of courses in interactive theory, media production, programming, Web design, and animation, students learn how to transform traditional media and original content into multimedia productions. The combination of study in the intellectual and production aspects of interactive media creates students that are innovative thinkers who understand the shift from legacy media to online.

International Business[edit]

The Master of International Business (MIB) degree is a postgraduate degree designed to develop the capabilities and resources of managers in the global economy. It is ideal for those seeking to establish or accelerate a career in international business.

Emphasizing the practical application of specialized knowledge, the program equips management with skills tailored to the international business environment.

The Master of International Business focuses on strategic planning for international operations and provides an in-depth understanding of the organizational capabilities required for international operations, including specialized functions such as international marketing, finance and human resource management.

The degree may be thought of as an MBA with a particular focus on multinational corporations.

International Development[edit]

The MID acronym is also used for a Master of International Development, which is a postgraduate degree in the study of developmental economics, non-governmental organizations and civil society, development planning, environmental sustainability, and human security.

International Economics and Finance[edit]

The Master of Arts in international economics and finance is a two-year degree in the field of economics.

International Hotel Management[edit]

The Master of Arts in International Hotel Management is a two-year professional graduate degree awarded by Royal Roads University [1] that prepares individuals to succeed in senior and executive hospitality positions within the accommodations sector including hotels, resorts, and cruise ships. RRU delivers this 39 credit program through a combination of 15 credits during three-short term residences (two in Victoria, BC Canada and one in an international location), and 24 credits through on-line distance learning.

Internet Technology[edit]

Internet Technology degrees are available online and on campus. The Internet Technology MS degree at The Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems at Pace University consists of a 12-credit foundational core, followed by a 12-credit concentration in E-Commerce or Security and Information Assurance. There are other programs available at other Universities in the United States.

Jurisprudence[edit]

Master of Jurisprudence (M.J.) is sometimes used as an alternative name for both Master of Laws and Master of Juridical Science.Offered within United States law schools, students of an M.J. curriculum are often business professionals and/or Juris Doctor degree holders; who wish to enhance their knowledge in a specialized field of law. A Master of Jurisprudence is highly beneficial for those that need an in-depth understanding of the law within current executive level positions.M.J. students are required to develop a comprehensive understanding of the operation of law as it applies to a specified area of law. An M.J. program combines a combination of graduate level legal courses with MBA-style courses in concentrated areas of study. Master of Jurisprudence program offerings include but aren't limited to degrees in Business and Corporate Governance Law, Health Law and Policy, and Child and Family Law.The M.J. program is typically 24 credit hours and can be completed in two years; or longer depending on the law student's enrollment status.l^[17]

Landscape Architecture[edit]

The Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) degree is a professional degree in the field of landscape architecture.

Laws[edit]

Master of Laws (LL.M.) is a graduate law degree, pursued after earning a first law degree in the U.S. or abroad, such as a LL.B. or J.D. The LL.M. program typically lasts one year if taken full-time. For foreign law graduates, the LL.M. is similar to a 'study abroad program' and offers a general overview of the American Legal System. Domestic U.S. law graduates pursue the LL.M. for different reasons, largely academic. With the exception of LL.M. Programs in highly specialized areas where advanced knowledge in a field is useful (e.g., Taxation, International Taxation, Intellectual Property; etc.), the Master of Laws is designed for those intending to teach law, whereas the J.D. is a professional doctorate.

Leadership[edit]

The Master of Science in Leadership is an alternative to, not a substitute for, the traditional Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree. The MSL degree requirements may include some business courses that are required in an MBA program. However, this degree program concentrates heavily on leader-follower interactions, cross-cultural communications, coaching, team development, project leadership, and behavioral motivation theories; it does not concentrate on financial or quantitative analysis, marketing, or accounting which are common in MBA programs. The degree program is appealing to people in well-established careers already. The MSL degree is similar to the Master of Organizational Leadership (MSOL) degree.^[18]

Liberal Studies[edit]

The Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (MALS) Master of Liberal Arts (MLA, ALM) and Master of Liberal Studies (MLS) are interdisciplinary master's degrees. Characteristics that distinguish these degrees from others include curricular flexibility, interdisciplinary synthesis via Master's thesis or capstone project, and optional part-time enrollment.

Library Science[edit]

A Master of Library Science (MLS) degree is the culmination of an interdisciplinary program encompassing information science, information management, librarianship, and/or related topics. Modern variants include Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS), Master of Science in Information Studies (MSIS), Master of Librarianship, Master of Information Management and Systems (MIMS), Master of Science in Library Science (MSLS), and others. Some universities use standard degree titles such as Master of Arts while others, such as the University of Michigan, use Master of Arts in Library Science (AMLS). (University of Iowa) and Master of Science (University of Illinois) for their Library Science master's degrees.

Logistics, Trade, and Transportation[edit]

The Master of Science in Logistics, Trade, and Transportation (MS LTT) at the University of Southern Mississippi [2] is an interdisciplinary program of 30 total credit hours. This LTT program can be completed in one year and customized to meet career advancement needs. The MS LTT program comprises logistics, supply chain management, global trade and economic development, business, and other courses. These courses are delivered in several flexible formats including on-line, in-person, and executive/hybrid format to allow practitioners to continue to work while pursuing the degree.

Management[edit]

The Master of Arts in Management (MAM), in the United States, is a professional graduate degree that prepares business professionals for senior level management positions and executive leadership of organizations and corporations (for-profit, nonprofit and public sector). The business MAM degree should not be confused with Master's degrees in Arts Management, which may be more numerous in the U.S. The MAM degree is a specialized degree that focuses studies on all areas of business, e.g., strategic planning and leadership, marketing analysis and strategy, operations management, project management, human resource management, organizational design and development, finance, accounting, management and contract negotiations, statistical methods and applications, economic theory, and research.

A characteristic that tends to distinguish the MAM and MBA business degrees from other Master's degrees in business is the absence of in-depth study within one particular area of business. M.S. business degrees typically focus on traditional areas like Finance, Accounting, and Information Systems.^[19] The MAM student's courses cover advanced management and strategic leadership as they apply to all areas of business, e.g., accounting, finance, operations management marketing, strategic planning, and human resources. The MAM student 'masters the art of management.' MBA and MAM degrees are both Master's level business degrees that cover broad and general content.

Master of Science programs in Management involve course work focusing within one areas of business such as Management Information Systems, Finance, Accounting and other areas.

Management in the Network Economy[edit]

Management in the Network Economy is a one- or two-year interdisciplinary post-graduate program that uniquely blends information economics, technology management and business administration, in order to forge leaders able to understand and manage the complexity of organizations and markets in the digital economy.In certain universities, like the Catholic University in Italy, this Master encompasses typical courses of a Master of Information Systems Management (MISM or MIS/M) and the business knowledge you can gain from a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Business and Organizational Leadership (MBOL).

Mathematics[edit]

Either pure or applied. Usually a MA, sometimes an MS.

Marketing and Communication[edit]

The Master of Science in Marketing and Communication (MCM) is an integrated marketing communication graduate degree offered at Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio.^[20]

The Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) is graduate degree offered at West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV through WVU's Reed College of Media.^[21]

Marketing Research[edit]

Master of Marketing Research (MMR) is a specialized degree in marketing focusing in research. Sometimes called a Master of Science in Marketing Research (MSMR).

Mass Communication[edit]

The Master of Mass Communications is a two- to three-year degree in the field of journalism and mass communications that prepares degree candidates for careers in media management. Students typically undertake courses in media law, marketing, integrated communications, research methods, and management.

Medical Education[edit]

The Masters of Science in Medical Education prepares physicians for careers as academic Clinician-Educator-Scholars through didactic training in medical education and research methods, and mentored education research.^[22]

Medical Science[edit]

Medical Science is a two-year postgraduate degree in medical research, usually for those possessing a Doctorate of Medicine already.

Ministry[edit]

The Master of Ministry is a two- to three-year multidisciplinary degree with a program typically designed to apply appropriate theological principles to practice-based settings and serve as a foundation for an original research project. Such a program responds to the need for structured learning and theological development among professionals serving Church, non-profit, public, and private sector organizations.

Typical concentrations (or majors) include: Missions, evangelism, pastoral counseling, chaplaincy, church growth and development, Christian administration, homiletics, spiritual formation, pastoral theology, Church administration, Biblical counseling, clergy, Biblical archeology, religious education, Christian management, church music, social work, spiritual direction.

Music[edit]

Master of Music, usually abbreviated M.Mus. or M.M., is one to two year graduate degree that combines advanced studies in an applied area of specialization (usually music performance, composition, or conducting) with graduate-level academic study in subjects such as music history, music theory, or music pedagogy. The degree, which takes one or two years of full-time study to complete, prepares students to be professional performers, conductors, and composers. The degree is often required as the minimum teaching credential for university, college, and conservatory instrumental or vocal teaching positions. Other related degrees include the Master of Music Education (M.Mus.Ed.), Master of Arts in Music Education (M.A.), Master of Sacred Music (M.S.M.), and Master of Worship Studies (M.W.S.).

Natural Sciences[edit]

The Master of Science in Natural Sciences (MSNS) program is a graduate degree program designed for elementary, middle and high school science teachers, stressing content and the processes of natural sciences.

Nonprofit Management[edit]

Master of Nonprofit Organizations (MNPO or MNO) and Master of Nonprofit Management (MNM) programs offer specialized, graduate-level knowledge for individuals currently working in the nonprofit sector or in organizations that partner with the nonprofit sector or for those seeking a career in the nonprofit sector. The program provides advanced knowledge in nonprofit management, resource development, strategic planning, and program evaluation that serves to enhance the education and career development of students. This degree program provides opportunities for students to prepare for employment or to advance their careers as administrators in nonprofit organizations. MNPO, MNO, and MNM programs are offered through a range of academic units, including schools and departments of social work, business, management, public administration, and independent units.

Nonprofit Organizations[edit]

Master of Nonprofit Organizations (MNPO or MNO) and Master of Nonprofit Management (MNM) programs offer specialized, graduate-level knowledge for individuals currently working in the nonprofit sector or in organizations that partner with the nonprofit sector or for those seeking a career in the nonprofit sector. The program provides advanced knowledge in nonprofit management, resource development, strategic planning, and program evaluation that serves to enhance the education and career development of students. This degree program provides opportunities for students to prepare for employment or to advance their careers as administrators in nonprofit organizations. MNPO, MNO, and MNM programs are offered through a range of academic units, including schools and departments of social work, business, management, public administration, and independent units.

Nurse Anesthesia[edit]

The Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia degree prepares students to master the intellectual and technical skills required to become competent in the safe administration of anesthesia.

Nursing[edit]

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is the most common title for a graduate professional degree in nursing. A few schools also use the titles Master of Nursing or Master of Arts. Admittance into a MSN program requires that the professional be a registered nurse (RN), have an up-to-date license, and to have successfully completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program. A full-time student can expect to complete the degree program in 18 to 24 months. A part-time student could take anywhere from 3 to 5 years to complete a MSN program.^[23]

Completion of a MSN/NP program earns nursing professionals the title of Nurse Practitioner (NP). While registered nurses administer medication and perform basic diagnostic tests, nurse practitioner's order and analyze the diagnostic tests, as well as prescribe treatments. Nurse Practitioner's entry level salary is typically $20,000 more than a Registered Nurse will earn.^[24]

Occupational Therapy[edit]

The Master of Occupational Therapy is awarded to students who have completed a post-graduate course of study, and is now the entry-level degree for this profession. This degree is sometimes also conferred as a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy.^[25]

Organizational Leadership[edit]

MSOL is a multi-disciplinary masters program that focuses on values-based leadership. The courses focus on the development of relationships between organizational members, effective decision-making processes, and an understanding of how modern technology can best support leaders. The MSOL degree is an alternative, not a substitute for an MBA. The programs are different in content and purpose. The MSOL degree is multidisciplinary and focuses more on people and organization issues, less on business topics such as finance, accounting and marketing. For example, in MSOL you will take courses in psychology and philosophy as well as courses in business and management. The MSOL degree is intended for those who are already established in a career. In contrast, those who are preparing to enter the world of work or change careers often seek an MBA degree. Although the MBA degree is more widely known, degree programs like the MSOL are being developed across the country because of increasing demand for ethical organizational leadership.

Pacific International Affairs[edit]

The Master of Pacific International Affairs degree is a professional master's degree that provides training in various aspects of international affairs including International Business Management, International Politics, Public Policy, International Environmental Policy and Development and Non-Profit Management. The program requires mastery in a Pacific Rim language, quantitative and economic analysis techniques and a regional focus.

Pharmacy[edit]

The Master of Pharmacy degree is awarded to students who have completed the four-year undergraduate Pharmacy course. Failure to complete the course, but having completed three years, usually awards the student a bachelor's degree in Pharmaceutical Science.

Philosophy[edit]

In the United States and Canada, a Master of Philosophy or Magister Philosophiae (MPhil) degree is sometimes awarded to ABD (all but dissertation) doctoral candidates who have completed all coursework, passed their written and oral examinations, and met any other special requirements before beginning work on the doctoral dissertation. Such programs generally award the M.A. to students who have completed all coursework and preliminary exams (about two years after the B.A.), and the M.Phil. after advanced exams (comprehensives) and all language requirements have been met, and a dissertation topic approved (usually a year after the M.A.).

In other countries, assuming all requirements are met, the MPhil degree is generally awarded after about one year of full-time study towards a doctorate. The MPhil is considered equivalent to the former French DEA (Diplôme d'études approfondies) and Spanish DEA (Diploma de Estudios Avanzados).

Physician Assistant Studies[edit]

The Master of Physician Assistant Studies is a professional degree providing training in the profession of a physician assistant to practice medicine based on the medical school model. This degree is also sometimes seen as an MS in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS), the Master of Physician Assistant Practice (MPAP)

Professional Counseling[edit]

The Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling (MAPC) is a two-year program that prepares individuals for the independent professional practice of psychological counseling, involving the rendering of therapeutic services to individuals and groups experiencing psychological problems and exhibiting distress symptoms. Includes instruction in counseling theory, therapeutic intervention strategies, patient/counselor relationships, testing and assessment methods and procedures, group therapy, marital and family therapy, child and adolescent therapy, supervised counseling practice, ethical standards, and applicable regulations.

Professional Studies[edit]

The Master's of Professional Studies (MPS or MProfStuds) is a terminal interdisciplinary degree and is sometimes used by programs that do not fit into any traditional categories. In some cases it is used as replacement for an MFA for programs with heavy technology focuses like NYU's Interactive Telecommunications Program. Other programs use it for Organizational Studies or interdisciplinary Social Science programs.

Professional Writing[edit]

The Master of Professional Writing (MPW) degree is a professional graduate degree program that prepares candidates for a wide variety of writing-related positions in business, education, publishing, and the arts. Coursework in three concentrations - applied writing, composition and rhetoric, and creative writing - allows students to gain theoretical and practical knowledge in various fields of professional writing.

Project Management[edit]

The Master of Project Management is a terminal professional degree awarded to students who have completed a post-graduate course of study, and is usually associated with construction management, urban planning, or architecture and engineeringdesign management. There are a limited number of universities and schools worldwide to be accredited by the Global Accreditation Center of the Project Management Institute® PMI, they must meet the standards of the leading association for project management professionals.

Public Administration[edit]

The Master of Public Administration (M.P.A. or MPA; MAP in Québec) degree is one of several Master's level professionalpublic affairs degrees that provides training in public policy and project and program implementation (more recently known as public management).

MPA programs focus on public administration at the local, state/provincial, national/federal and supranational levels, as well as in the nongovernmental organization (NGO) and nonprofit sectors. In the course of its history the MPA degree has become more interdisciplinary by drawing from fields such as economics, sociology, anthropology, political science, and regional planning in order to equip MPA graduates with skills and knowledge covering a broad range of topics and disciplines relevant to the public sector. A core curriculum of a typical MPA program usually includes courses on microeconomics, public finance, research methods / statistics, policy process and policy analysis, ethics, public management, leadership, planning & GIS, and program evaluation/performance measurement. Depending on their interest, MPA students can focus their studies on a variety of public sector fields such as urban planning, emergency management, transportation, health care (particularly public health), economic development, urban management, community development, education, non-profits, information technology, environmental policy, etc.

Public Health[edit]

The Master of Public Health and Master of Science in Public Health degrees are awarded to students who have completed a 'post-graduate course' of study in Public Health. The MPH is considered a management/leadership degree specific to the fields related to public health while the MSPH is considered an academic degree, with a focus on empirical research methodologies.

Public Management[edit]

The Master of Public Management is offered through Carnegie Mellon UniversityHeinz College. This masters level degree is conferred upon those students who have completed a post-graduate course of study, and is usually associated with broadening the students' understanding of social, political, technological and economic processes, as well as paradigms of organizational and human behavior.

Public Policy[edit]

The Master of Public Policy is a master level professional degree that provides training in policy analysis and program evaluation at public policy schools. Over time, the curriculum of Master of Public Policy and the Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) degrees have blended and converged, due to the realization that policy analysis and program evaluation could benefit from an understanding of public administration, and vice versa. However, MPP programs still place more emphasis in policy analysis, research and evaluation, while MPA programs place more emphasis on operationalization of public policies and the design of effective programs and projects to achieve public policy goals. Over the years MPP programs have become more interdisciplinary drawing from economics, sociology, anthropology, politics, and regional planning. Depending on the interest, MPP students can concentrate in many policy areas including, but not limited to, urban policy, global policy, social policy, health policy, non-profit management, transportation, economic development, education, information technology, etc. Students interested in pursuing a degree program focused entirely on global public policy can also consider Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs (M.P.P.G.A) programs.

Public Service[edit]

The MPS program^[26] provides a multi-disciplinary training that equips you with the knowledge, skills and experience you need for a career within any level of government in Canada.With rapid technological changes, shifting demographics, economic uncertainty and globalization, the Canadian public service needs employees with specific knowledge and ingenuity to ensure resources, organizational capacity and effective communications are in place to meet the challenges ahead. Whether working in policy research, financial management or community development, professionally trained public servants are essential to good government.

'The Public Service today must address a significant demographic challenge. For the first time, it has more employees over 45 than under, and it is facing the imminent retirement of a generation of valued employees … In this context, how can we ensure that Canada continues to have a strong and effective Public Service to help Canadians meet the important challenges facing the country in the years ahead?'^[27]

The Master of Arts in Public Service (MAPS) degree is a professional graduate degree program which offers specializations in areas of administration of justice, dispute resolution, health care administration, leadership studies, and non-profit studies. [3]

Quality Assurance[edit]

The Master of Science in Quality Assurance (MSQA) is a graduate degree designed for quality management professionals in diverse industries including service, manufacturing, software, government and health care organizations.

Resource Management[edit]

The Masters of Resource Management (M.R.M.) is designed for recent graduates from a range of disciplines, and for individuals with experience in private organizations or public agencies dealing with natural resources and the environment. Relevant disciplines of undergraduate training or experience include fields such as biology, engineering, chemistry, forestry and geology, as well as business administration, economics, geography, planning and a variety of social sciences. The M.R.M. degree provides training for professional careers in private or public organizations and preparation for further training for research and academic careers.^[28]

Sacred Music[edit]

The Master of Sacred Music is a graduate degree combining academic studies in theology with applied studies in music.

Security Technologies[edit]

Master of Science in Security Technologies (MSST) is a 32 credit, thesis graduate program for security as it relates to technology, intelligence collection, policy, law, cyber and physical security management, and security methodology. The program is within the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Minnesota.

Social Work[edit]

The Master of Social Work (MSW) is a professional graduate degree preparing students to become professional social workers, typically in either direct practice or community practice. MSW programs require students to complete an extensive field practicum, under mentorship of a senior social worker. MSW programs in the United States are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

The degree title MSW is not used in the US by all social work schools. The University of Chicago uses A.M. and Columbia University uses M.S. to name a few of the exceptions.

Strategic Leadership[edit]

The Master of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSSL) graduate degree is an Executive Program in Organizational Leadership and Management Development, teaching the skills and knowledge in working effectively with people, organizational systems, and complex information. MSSL objectives embody development of a leadership skill set, strategies for problem solving, and solutions to facilitate and manage change applicable in business and not-for-profit environments.

Taxation[edit]

The Master of Science in Taxation (MST) is a professional graduate degree designed for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and other tax professionals. See also: Master of Accountancy

Teaching[edit]

Coursework and practice leading to a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree is intended to prepare individuals for a teaching career in a specific subject of middle and/or secondary-level curricula (i.e., middle or high school). The MAT differs from the MEd degree in that the course requirements are dominated by classes in the subject area to be taught (e.g., foreign language, math, science, etc.) rather than educational theory; and that the MAT candidate does not already hold a teaching credential whereas the MEd candidate will. The MAT often is the initial teacher education program for those who hold a bachelor's degree in the subject that they intend to teach. Work toward most MAT degrees will, however, necessarily include classes on educational theory in order to meet program and state requirements. Work toward the MAT degree may also include practica (i.e., student teaching). This abbreviation is also sometimes used to refer to a Master's in Theology (see ThM).

The Master of Arts in Teaching, or MAT, differs from the M.Ed. and the other Master's degrees in education primarily in that the majority of coursework focuses on the subject to be taught (i.e. history, English, math, biology, etc.) rather than on educational theory. While some online MAT programs offer a more general overview of the foundations of effective teaching, most MAT programs combine the study of widely established ‘best practices’ in the classroom with a focus on teaching within a specific discipline. Either way, the MA in Teaching is truly a teaching degree. Individuals who pursue the Master of Arts in Teaching generally choose to remain in the classroom. An MAT can also provide an educator with the appropriate credentials to become a department chairperson. The online Master of Arts in Teaching can offer educational professionals an increase in earning power along with instruction in the most up-to-date and effective instructional techniques.

Theology[edit]

The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) is the first professional degree in ministry (in the United States and Canada) and is a common academic degree among theologicalseminaries. It is typically three years in length. Other theology degree titles used are Master of Theology (Th.M. or M.Th.), Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.), Master of Arts in Practical Theology (M.A.P.T.), and Master of Sacred Theology (S.T.M.).

Urban Planning[edit]

The Master of Urban Planning (MUP), Master of City and Regional Planning (MCRP), Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP), Master of Environmental Design (MEDes (planning)) and Master of City Planning (MCP) are professional degrees in the study of urban planning.

Urban Studies[edit]

The degree is primarily focused on urban issues including planning issues.

References[edit]

1. ^Example of Master of Advanced Studies degree in the USA: List of Master of Advanced Studies offered at the University of California San DiegoArchived 2012-03-25 at the Wayback Machine
2. ^Hayward, Brad. 'UC to offer 'Master of Advanced Study' degree', The University of California, Santa Cruz Currents, July 27, 1998.
3. ^'Bioinformatics Market is Expected to Reach Revenue of $12.8 Billion Globally by 2020 - Allied Market Research'. Retrieved 2 November 2018.
4. ^= 1727&monControl = Programmes&ProgId = 531 grad.uottawa.ca Retrieved 2011-11-16
5. ^Retrieved from www.macie.org on 11/26/10
6. ^Kurt, Serhat (12 October 2016). 'Definitions of Educational Technology - Educational Technology'. Educational Technology. Retrieved 2 November 2018.
7. ^'Educational technology'. www.concordia.ca. Retrieved 2 November 2018.
8. ^'Home Page - UBC Master of Educational Technology (MET)'. met.ubc.ca. Retrieved 2 November 2018.
9. ^'Master of Educational Technology and Applied Learning Science - Human-Computer Interaction Institute'. www.hcii.cmu.edu. Retrieved 2 November 2018.
10. ^http://www.grad.uottawa.ca/Default.aspx?tabid = 1727&monControl = Programmes&ProgId = 594
11. ^M.E.D. Research-Based Thesis ProgramArchived 2012-12-31 at the Wayback Machine Yale School of Architecture. 2012. Retrieved May 2, 2013.
12. ^ ^ab[1] NCPE Guide to Academic Programs in Historic Preservation.
13. ^'Master of Human-Computer Interaction Human-Computer Interaction Institute'. hcii.cmu.edu. Retrieved 2019-02-10.
14. ^'MHCI+D – Human-Computer Interaction + Design at University of Washington'. Retrieved 2019-02-10.
15. ^'Human Computer Interaction Design: Informatics: Degrees & Certificates: Graduate: Home: Indiana University'. www.sice.indiana.edu. Retrieved 2019-02-10.
16. ^'Home Georgia Tech Master's Program in Human-Computer Interaction'. mshci.gatech.edu. Retrieved 2019-02-10.
17. ^Master of Jurisprudence Wikipedia.
18. ^'Nova Southeastern University Master of Science in Leadership Program'. Archived from the original on 2006-08-31. Retrieved 2010-03-07.
19. ^'DataDirect - General'. datadirect.aacsb.edu. Retrieved 2 November 2018.
20. ^'Accredited Master's Degree in Marketing and Communication'. Retrieved 2011-11-07.
21. ^'Accredited Master's Degree in Integrated Marketing Communications'. Retrieved 2011-11-07.
22. ^NYU School of Medicine Master's programArchived 2007-01-01 at the Wayback Machine
23. ^'MASTER'S DEGREE IN NURSING'. Ohio University. Retrieved 14 April 2015.
24. ^'An In-Depth Look at the Many Sides of Nursing'. Maryville University. Retrieved 14 April 2015.
25. ^'Master of Science in Occupational Therapy - Boston University'. Retrieved 2010-01-02.
26. ^'Home - Master of Public Service'. 15 May 2013. Retrieved 2 November 2018.
27. ^Kevin Lynch, the former Clerk of the Privy Council, in his second report to the Prime Minister, February 2008.
28. ^'Masters Degree in Resource Management'. Retrieved 2010-03-29.