M.A. in Financial Economics

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 120

Academic Requirements:

• A completed bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) is  required.  
• For postgraduate programs, applicants are expected to have a minimum academic average of 60% or above in their previous studies.
   

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

  • An overall score of 6.5 or higher.
  • No individual band score less than 6.0.
     

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) iBT (Internet-Based Test):

  • A minimum total score of 80 or higher.
     

• DET (Duolingo English Test):

  • A score of 105 or higher.

Youngstown State University (YSU) offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to help make their education more affordable. These scholarships are highly competitive, and eligibility criteria may vary.

1. Global Leadership Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to academically talented and highly motivated international students. It provides financial support for tuition and is renewable for up to eight semesters. Eligibility is based on a student's academic record and standardized test scores.

2. American-Midwest Scholarship: YSU offers this scholarship to undergraduate international students. It covers a portion of tuition costs and is based on academic merit.

3. Athletic Scholarships: For students with exceptional athletic abilities, YSU provides athletic scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to student-athletes who participate in YSU's sports programs.

4. Graduate Assistantships: YSU offers graduate assistantships to eligible international students pursuing master's and doctoral programs. These assistantships provide a stipend and may include tuition remission.

5. Non-Resident Tuition Scholarships: Some scholarships are designed to offset the higher out-of-state tuition costs for international students. These awards help reduce the overall tuition burden.

6. International Student Scholarships: YSU provides general scholarships for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are based on merit, and the selection process is highly competitive.

7. Honors College Scholarships: High-achieving international students may be eligible for Honors College scholarships. These scholarships offer additional funding for students in the Honors College program.

8. School-Specific Scholarships: Various schools and colleges within YSU may offer scholarships specific to their academic disciplines. Students pursuing particular majors or fields of study should inquire about school-specific scholarship opportunities.

9. External Scholarships: YSU encourages international students to explore external scholarships offered by organizations, foundations, or home country governments. These external scholarships can help cover educational expenses.

To apply for YSU scholarships, international students typically need to submit scholarship applications, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and possibly a personal statement. The specific requirements and deadlines may vary for each scholarship.

Earning a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Financial Economics from Youngstown State University is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a career in the dynamic and competitive world of finance. This program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in various financial roles, from investment analysis to risk management.

1. Financial Analyst: M.A. in Financial Economics graduates are well-prepared for careers as financial analysts. They analyze financial data, evaluate investment opportunities, and provide recommendations to clients or their organizations. These professionals play a vital role in decision-making processes.

2. Investment Banking: Graduates can pursue careers in investment banking, where they assist in raising capital for businesses, mergers and acquisitions, and financial advisory services. Investment bankers are often employed by prominent financial institutions and have the potential for substantial earnings.

3. Risk Management: Risk analysts and managers evaluate and mitigate financial risks within organizations. They use their skills to identify potential threats and develop strategies to protect a company's financial stability. This role is essential in various industries, including banking and insurance.

4. Financial Planning: Graduates can become financial planners, helping individuals and families manage their finances, plan for the future, and achieve their financial goals. They may work for financial planning firms or establish their practices.

5. Corporate Finance: Many organizations hire financial economists to manage their financial operations. These professionals oversee budgets, investments, and financial strategies to ensure a company's financial health and growth.

6. Consulting: Financial economics graduates can work as financial consultants, advising businesses on financial strategies, investment decisions, and risk management. This role often involves collaborating with a wide range of clients.

7. Government and Regulatory Agencies: Government agencies and regulatory bodies often hire financial experts to ensure compliance with financial regulations. These roles involve monitoring financial markets and enforcing financial laws and regulations.

8. Academia and Research: Some graduates choose to pursue academic careers or work in research positions. They can teach at universities, contribute to financial research, and publish scholarly articles.