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M.S. in Finance, Pathway - 2 Semesters

Washington, D.C.

 

INTAKE: Jan & Aug

Program Overview

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Finance program at American University Washington D.C. is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of finance principles, quantitative methods, and analytical skills necessary for success in the dynamic field of finance. The Master of Science (M.S.) in Finance program at American University Washington D.C. provides students with a comprehensive education in finance theory, quantitative methods, and analytical skills, preparing them for successful careers in various sectors of the financial services industry, including corporate finance, investment banking, asset management, financial consulting, and risk management. Graduates emerge as well-rounded finance professionals equipped to navigate the complexities of global financial markets and make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.

Curriculum:

  1. Core Curriculum: The M.S. in Finance program offers a rigorous core curriculum covering key areas of finance, including financial analysis, investments, corporate finance, and financial markets. Students delve into topics such as financial modeling, valuation techniques, risk management, and portfolio management. The core courses provide students with a solid foundation in finance theory and practice, preparing them for advanced coursework and specialized electives.

  2. STEM Designation: The M.S. in Finance program is designated as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) by incorporating quantitative and analytical components into the curriculum. The STEM designation enhances the program's appeal to international students seeking opportunities for Optional Practical Training (OPT) extensions in the United States.

  3. Quantitative Methods: The program emphasizes quantitative methods and analytical techniques essential for financial decision-making. Students learn statistical analysis, econometrics, and mathematical modeling to analyze financial data, evaluate investment opportunities, and assess risk-return tradeoffs. They acquire proficiency in financial modeling tools and software, enhancing their ability to make data-driven decisions in real-world finance settings.

  4. Financial Markets and Institutions: Students explore the structure and functioning of financial markets and institutions, including stock markets, bond markets, derivatives markets, and banking systems. They examine the role of financial intermediaries, regulatory agencies, and international financial institutions in shaping global financial markets. They also analyze financial instruments, trading strategies, and market dynamics, gaining insights into the complexities of modern financial systems.

  5. Corporate Finance: The program covers advanced topics in corporate finance, such as capital budgeting, capital structure, dividend policy, and mergers and acquisitions. Students learn how to analyze financial statements, evaluate investment projects, and optimize corporate financial decisions. They study financial planning, working capital management, and corporate governance practices, preparing them for roles in corporate finance, financial management, and strategic planning.

  6. Investments and Portfolio Management: Students develop expertise in investments and portfolio management, learning how to construct and manage investment portfolios to achieve investors' financial goals. They explore asset allocation strategies, portfolio diversification techniques, and portfolio performance evaluation methods. They also examine investment vehicles, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and alternative investments, and analyze their risk-return characteristics.

  7. Financial Modeling and Analysis: The program emphasizes financial modeling and analysis skills, enabling students to build and analyze financial models to support investment decisions, financial planning, and risk management. Students learn how to apply spreadsheet tools, programming languages, and financial software to develop and analyze complex financial models. They apply quantitative techniques to solve practical finance problems and communicate their findings effectively to stakeholders.

  8. Risk Management: The program covers principles of risk management and insurance, focusing on identifying, measuring, and managing financial risks in organizations. Students study risk assessment methodologies, hedging strategies, and risk mitigation techniques used in financial markets, banking, and corporate finance. They explore topics such as credit risk, market risk, liquidity risk, and operational risk, learning how to develop risk management strategies to protect against adverse events.

  9. Financial Regulation and Compliance: Students gain an understanding of financial regulation and compliance requirements governing the financial services industry. They explore regulatory frameworks, compliance standards, and ethical considerations in finance, including securities regulations, banking regulations, and corporate governance principles. They learn about regulatory agencies, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Federal Reserve System, and their roles in ensuring financial market integrity and investor protection.

  10. Elective Courses and Specializations: The program offers a variety of elective courses and specializations that allow students to tailor their education to their career interests and goals. Elective options may include topics such as real estate finance, financial derivatives, international finance, fintech, sustainable finance, and behavioral finance. Students can choose electives based on their career aspirations and industry trends, gaining specialized knowledge and skills in specific areas of finance.

Pollster Education

Location

Washington, D.C.

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS: 6

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

USD 30752

Entry requirements for Postgraduate programs

  1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate students applying to American University are expected to demonstrate strong academic qualifications in their previous studies. While specific requirements may vary depending on the program, applicants typically need to hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. The academic qualifications requirement generally falls within the range of 83% to 86%, depending on the program and the competitiveness of the applicant pool.

  2. English Language Proficiency:  

    • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 6 is required with no band less than 5.5.
    • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): The minimum TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) score 74 with no band less than 20 is required.
    • PTE (Pearson Test of English): The minimum PTE Academic score required is 50 with no band less than 46.
    • DET (Duolingo English Test): The minimum DET score of 100 is required with no sub-score below 90.

American University (AU) in Washington D.C., USA, is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion by providing financial assistance to international students through various scholarship programs. These scholarships are designed to attract top talent from around the world and make an American University education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.  

Global Leader Scholarship: The Global Leader Scholarship at American University is a merit-based award offered to international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

International Peace Scholarship: The International Peace Scholarship is awarded to international students who have a strong academic record and a demonstrated commitment to promoting peace, justice, and social change. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible students enrolled in undergraduate programs at American University.

AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship: The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students who have overcome significant obstacles and challenges to pursue their education and demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to serving their communities. This scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

AU International Merit Scholarship: The AU International Merit Scholarship is awarded to international students with exceptional academic achievements and strong leadership qualities. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students enrolled at American University.

AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students: The AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students is awarded to academically talented international students who demonstrate financial need and have a strong commitment to academic excellence. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students at AU.

AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students: The AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students is awarded to outstanding transfer students from international institutions who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership potential. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate transfer students at American University.

AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students: The AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students is awarded to top-performing international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements, leadership abilities, and a commitment to service. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition for eligible undergraduate students at AU.

These scholarships for international students at American University reflect the university's commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and global engagement. By providing financial assistance and support to talented and deserving students from around the world, American University seeks to foster a diverse and inclusive campus community and prepare students to become global leaders and change-makers in their respective fields. International students interested in applying for scholarships at American University should review the eligibility criteria and application requirements on the university's official website and contact the Office of Admissions for further assistance.

Graduates of the Master of Science (M.S.) in Finance program at American University Washington D.C. are well-equipped with the knowledge, skills, and expertise needed to pursue rewarding career opportunities in various sectors of the financial services industry. Graduates of the M.S. in Finance program at American University Washington D.C. possess versatile skills and credentials that qualify them for a wide range of roles in the financial services industry. Whether in investment banking, asset management, corporate finance, risk management, or financial consulting, graduates emerge as competent and competitive finance professionals ready to make meaningful contributions to the financial sector and advance their careers in a dynamic and evolving industry landscape.

  1. Financial Analyst: Graduates may work as financial analysts, conducting research, analyzing financial data, and providing investment recommendations to individuals, corporations, or investment firms. They evaluate investment opportunities, assess financial risks, and prepare financial reports and projections to support investment decision-making processes.

  2. Investment Banker: Graduates may pursue roles in investment banking, working for investment banks, brokerage firms, or financial advisory firms. They facilitate corporate finance transactions, such as mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings (IPOs), and debt issuances, advising clients on capital raising, corporate restructuring, and strategic transactions.

  3. Portfolio Manager: Graduates may work as portfolio managers, overseeing investment portfolios and making investment decisions on behalf of institutional investors, mutual funds, or hedge funds. They develop investment strategies, allocate assets across different asset classes, and monitor portfolio performance to achieve investors' financial objectives.

  4. Risk Manager: Graduates may specialize in risk management, working for financial institutions, insurance companies, or consulting firms. They identify, assess, and manage financial risks, such as credit risk, market risk, liquidity risk, and operational risk, implementing risk management policies and procedures to mitigate potential losses.

  5. Corporate Financial Analyst: Graduates may pursue roles in corporate finance, working for corporations, multinational companies, or financial services firms. They analyze financial statements, evaluate capital investment projects, and develop financial models to support strategic decision-making, budgeting, and financial planning processes.

  6. Financial Consultant: Graduates may work as financial consultants, providing advisory services to individuals, businesses, or nonprofit organizations. They offer expertise in financial planning, investment management, retirement planning, and wealth management, helping clients achieve their financial goals and objectives.

  7. Financial Planner/Advisor: Graduates may become financial planners or advisors, assisting individuals and families with financial planning, retirement planning, estate planning, and investment management. They assess clients' financial situations, develop personalized financial plans, and provide recommendations on asset allocation, risk management, and tax optimization strategies.

  8. Quantitative Analyst (Quant): Graduates with strong quantitative skills may pursue careers as quantitative analysts or "quants," working for investment banks, hedge funds, or asset management firms. They develop mathematical models, algorithmic trading strategies, and quantitative trading systems to analyze financial markets and optimize investment returns.

  9. Compliance Officer: Graduates may work as compliance officers, ensuring that financial institutions comply with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and ethical guidelines. They monitor regulatory developments, conduct compliance audits, and implement compliance programs to prevent financial misconduct and regulatory violations.

  10. Financial Regulator: Graduates may pursue careers in financial regulation and supervision, working for government agencies, regulatory bodies, or international organizations. They enforce financial regulations, conduct inspections and investigations, and contribute to the development of policies and standards aimed at maintaining financial stability and protecting investors' interests.

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