M.A. in Sociology
George Mason University, a prestigious institution located in Fairfax, Virginia, offers...
M.S. in Finance
Fairfax, Virginia
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Finance program at George Mason University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of finance principles, quantitative analysis, and real-world applications. This program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in various finance roles across industries. The curriculum combines core finance courses with electives, ensuring a well-rounded education in finance theory and practice.The M.S. in Finance program at George Mason University provides a solid foundation for individuals aspiring to pursue careers in finance. Whether aiming for roles in investment banking, financial analysis, risk management, or corporate finance, graduates are well-equipped with the knowledge, skills, and industry connections to excel. The program's emphasis on both theoretical understanding and practical application ensures that graduates are not only able to navigate complex financial concepts but also to make strategic decisions that contribute to their organizations' success. With its faculty expertise, networking opportunities, and focus on experiential learning, George Mason University's M.S. in Finance program prepares students to thrive in the dynamic and competitive world of finance.
Curriculum:
1. Core Courses: The core courses cover foundational topics such as financial analysis, investment management, corporate finance, and quantitative methods in finance. These courses provide students with a strong grasp of financial concepts and analytical tools used in decision-making.
2. Elective Specializations: Students can choose from a variety of elective courses based on their career goals and interests. Specializations may include areas like risk management, financial derivatives, international finance, behavioral finance, and more. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education to their desired career path.
3. Experiential Learning: Many programs incorporate experiential learning opportunities, such as case studies, simulations, and real-world projects. These experiences help students apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, enhancing their problem-solving and decision-making skills.
4. Faculty Expertise: George Mason University boasts a faculty with diverse expertise in finance, including industry professionals and academic researchers. This blend of practical and theoretical knowledge ensures that students receive a well-rounded education.
5. Networking Opportunities: Students have the chance to network with fellow classmates, faculty, alumni, and industry professionals through workshops, seminars, conferences, and networking events. These connections can be invaluable for future career growth and opportunities.
6. Professional Development: Many programs offer professional development resources, including career counseling, resume workshops, interview preparation, and internship opportunities. These resources help students transition from academia to the finance industry seamlessly.
7. Collaboration with Industry: Some programs collaborate with industry partners to offer guest lectures, internships, and real-world projects. This interaction with industry leaders provides students with insights into current trends and challenges in the finance field.
Location
Fairfax, Virginia
Score
IELTS:7
Tuition Fee
USD 34210
Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs
Application Fees : US$ 75
1. Academic Qualifications: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The degree should be relevant to the chosen field of study for the postgraduate program.
2. Grade Point Average (GPA): The minimum GPA requirement for admission to most postgraduate programs at George Mason University is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
3. English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall score of 7, with no individual band score below 6.5
- TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 88 , with no band less than 20.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 120
George Mason University recognizes the importance of making higher education accessible to a diverse range of students, including international students. As such, the university offers a variety of scholarships to help offset the cost of tuition and support the academic pursuits of international students.
1. Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is a merit-based award available to incoming international undergraduate students. It recognizes academic achievement, leadership skills, and contributions to the community. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable for up to four years.
2. INTO Mason Scholarships: INTO Mason, a partnership program that helps international students transition to university life in the United States, offers scholarships to students who enroll in Pathway programs. These scholarships can help cover tuition costs and are awarded based on academic merit.
3. College and Departmental Scholarships: Many of George Mason University's colleges and academic departments offer scholarships to international students who excel in specific fields of study. These scholarships may require students to meet certain academic criteria and demonstrate a strong commitment to their chosen area of study.
4. Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students at George Mason University have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships, which provide funding for tuition and stipends for work as research or teaching assistants. These assistantships offer valuable hands-on experience while helping to offset educational costs.
5. International Baccalaureate Scholarships: International students who have completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) program may be eligible for scholarships based on their IB scores and academic achievements. These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate students.
6. Private Scholarships: George Mason University encourages international students to explore private scholarship opportunities from external organizations, foundations, and government agencies. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students find and apply for these scholarships.
7. Fullbright Scholarships: International students seeking advanced degrees may be eligible to apply for the prestigious Fullbright scholarship program, which provides funding for graduate study, research, and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.
It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary.
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Finance program at George Mason University opens the doors to a wide range of rewarding career opportunities in the dynamic and fast-paced field of finance. This program is designed to equip graduates with a deep understanding of financial principles, quantitative skills, and analytical expertise, making them highly sought-after candidates in various industries.
1. Financial Analyst: Graduates can pursue roles as financial analysts, where they analyze market trends, assess investment opportunities, and provide insights to guide financial decisions for corporations, investment firms, or financial institutions.
2. Investment Banking Associate: With their comprehensive understanding of financial markets and valuation techniques, graduates can work as investment banking associates, assisting in mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and financial advisory services.
3. Risk Manager: Many industries require professionals who can assess and mitigate risks. M.S. in Finance graduates can specialize in risk management, analyzing potential risks to an organization's financial health and developing strategies to manage them effectively.
4. Portfolio Manager: In the investment management sector, graduates can become portfolio managers, responsible for making investment decisions on behalf of clients, mutual funds, or pension funds, with the goal of achieving optimal returns.
5. Corporate Financial Planner: Large corporations often hire finance experts to manage their financial planning and budgeting processes. Graduates can help align financial goals with corporate strategies and ensure efficient allocation of resources.
6. Financial Consultant: Graduates can offer their expertise as financial consultants, working independently or with consulting firms to provide guidance on financial planning, retirement planning, and investment strategies to individuals and businesses.
7. Quantitative Analyst (Quant): For those with strong quantitative skills, quant roles involve designing and implementing mathematical models to inform trading strategies, risk assessment, and pricing of financial instruments.
8. Real Estate Analyst: With knowledge in financial analysis and valuation techniques, graduates can work in real estate firms to assess property investments, analyze market trends, and provide recommendations for property acquisitions or sales.
9. Hedge Fund Manager: Hedge funds seek professionals who can manage investment portfolios to maximize returns. Graduates with advanced financial knowledge can excel in roles that involve trading and managing fund assets.
10. Financial Technology (FinTech) Specialist: As technology reshapes the finance industry, graduates can play a key role in FinTech companies, developing innovative solutions in areas like digital payments, blockchain, robo-advisory, and algorithmic trading.
11. Financial Planner: Graduates can become certified financial planners, assisting individuals and families in creating comprehensive financial plans, managing investments, and achieving their financial goals.
12. Compliance Officer: With their understanding of financial regulations and ethics, graduates can work as compliance officers, ensuring that organizations adhere to financial laws and regulations.
13. Government Financial Analyst: Government agencies often require financial experts to analyze budgets, assess economic policies, and provide recommendations for efficient resource allocation.
14. Entrepreneurial Ventures: Some graduates choose to leverage their finance expertise to launch their own startups or entrepreneurial ventures in the financial services sector.
