Program Overview
The Master of Science in Finance at St. John's University is a STEM-eligible program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of financial concepts and practices. The program offers two tracks: Investment Management and Financial Technology, and emphasizes practical applications through case studies, guest speakers, and hands-on experience. Graduates are prepared for careers in various financial sectors, including investment management, asset management, and financial technology.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Master of Science in Finance at St. John's University is a STEM-eligible degree program designed to enhance students' expertise in making effective managerial and investment decisions. Emphasizing practical applications, the program aims to equip graduates with quantitative methods and techniques for decision-making in the finance industry.
Objectives:
- Provide a comprehensive understanding of financial concepts, theories, and practices.
- Develop analytical and problem-solving skills for evaluating financial data and making data-driven decisions.
- Enhance students' proficiency in investment analysis, portfolio management, and risk assessment.
- Prepare graduates for careers in the financial services sector, including asset management, investment banking, and financial planning.
Program Description:
The MSF program consists of 30 credit hours and can be completed in 18 months (three semesters). Students can pursue two tracks within the program:
Investment Management Track:
Tailored for individuals aspiring to careers in asset management, such as advising or portfolio management. This track aligns with the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) curriculum, preparing students to pursue the coveted CFA charter.
Financial Technology Track:
Combines a solid theoretical foundation in finance with an exploration of modern trends in financial technology. Students gain an understanding of how technology enhances financial decision-making and processes.
Outline:
Required Courses (21 credits):
- Applied Finance Institute
- ECO 604 Economics Foundations
- ACC 600 Financial Statement Analysis I
- FIN 607 Financial Management
- FIN 634 Investment Analysis
- FIN 684 Quantitative Asset Management
- FIN 668 Financial Derivatives
- FIN 664 Financial Statistics and Alternative Investments
Elective Courses (9 credits):
Investment Management Track:
- FIN 638 Fixed-Income Analysis
- ACC 601 Financial Statement Analysis II
- FIN 665 Portfolio Management and Analytics
Financial Technology Track:
- FIN 639: Introduction to Financial Technology
- FIN 669: Advanced Financial Technology
- BUA 635: Big Data and Data Mining Additional elective courses may include:
- FIN 633: Corporate Financial Management
- FIN 636: Mergers, Acquisitions, and Restructuring
- BUA 635: Big Data and Data Mining
Teaching:
The program emphasizes practical applications and industry relevance through:
- Case studies and real-world simulations
- Access to industry leaders and experts as guest speakers
- Hands-on experience in investment analysis and portfolio management
- Collaboration with the Applied Finance Institute to enhance practical knowledge
Careers:
Graduates of the MSF program are highly sought after in various financial sectors, including:
- Investment management
- Asset management
- Private banking
- Corporate finance
- Financial analysis
- Risk management
- Financial technology
