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Interested in a specialized graduate business degree? Discover the top master's in finance programs.
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Master's degrees in finance cover advanced financial data analytics, financial markets, and investment strategies, preparing students for various finance careers. These programs are also becoming increasingly popular among students.
According to the 2024 Application Survey from the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), 64% of U.S. master's in finance programs had an increase in applications year over year.
Explore the best master's degree in finance, what to expect, and potential jobs after graduation.
Popular Online Master's Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Our Master's in Finance Ranking
We use trusted sources like
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
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#1 Best Master’s Degrees in Finance 2025
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Vanderbilt's finance MS offers plenty of flexibility. The 33-credit program features half core courses and half electives. The core courses cover topics like corporate valuation, financial economics, and financial modeling. You can also opt for a finance and law dual degree.
Vanderbilt accepts about 90 students into the program each year. Courses run full time in accelerated seven-week sessions. If you're pursuing an investment banking career, the school offers access to the Investment Banking Academy for professional and academic support and mentorship. The program holds accreditation from the AACSB.
Highlights
10-month completion time
96% of graduates find employment within six months
Median annual salary of $86,284 for graduates
Considerations
No online classes
One of the most selective admissions processes
Requires GMAT or GRE with GPA below 3.5
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$58,130
Out-of-state
$58,130
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$53,160
Out-of-state
$53,160
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
6%
Students Enrolled
13,456
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Master’s Degrees in Finance 2025
New York University
New York, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
NYU's MS in global finance is a partnership program with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. The program features six immersive on-site visits to Hong Kong, Shanghai, and New York, each lasting an average of one week. You'll take classes in derivatives markets, behavioral finance, asset allocation, and an integrative group project and presentation.
The average class in NYU's finance program features 40-50 students from over 10 locations worldwide, making for a truly global experience. NYU's program holds accreditation from the AACSB and the European Quality Improvement System.
Highlights
Allows you to graduate in one year
Remote and asynchronous classwork
Connects you to a powerful global network
Considerations
Demands extensive travel
Calls for five years of experience minimum
Requires a student visa
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,384
Out-of-state
$55,384
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$37,332
Out-of-state
$37,332
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
9%
Students Enrolled
57,335
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best Master’s Degrees in Finance 2025
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
In FSU's MS in finance, you can choose between a real estate specialization and a corporate finance and investment management specialization. The 32-credit, three-semester program features courses in investment management and analysis, equity valuation, and applied econometrics.
At FSU, you'll encounter ample hands-on opportunities, including access to a trading room, optional summer internships, and investment management experience with a fund of over $5 million. The credits and knowledge you gain from this AACSB-accredited program can contribute to chartered financial analyst (CFA) or chartered alternative investment analyst certifications.
Highlights
Online asynchronous classes in summer
One of the most affordable options on this list
Test-optional (GRE and GMAT) admissions
Considerations
Requires four business foundation prerequisite courses
Offers portfolio management roles and experience to only a select few students
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,616
Out-of-state
$18,746
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,662
Out-of-state
$26,657
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
25%
Students Enrolled
43,234
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Master’s Degrees in Finance 2025
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
USF's MS in financial analytics helps prepare you for careers in corporate finance and other financial service roles, along with several professional finance certifications. Choose from concentrations in financial planning and wealth management, financial analysis, finance research, and fintech.
At USF, you'll have the option to complete some of your classes online. The 30-credit program is accredited by the AACSB and features core courses in quantitative investments, programming for fintech, and financial modeling and analytics.
Highlights
Graduate in as little as three semesters
Full-time and part-time study options
One of the least expensive tuition rates on this list
Considerations
Requires GMAT or GRE scores for most applicants
Calls for three prerequisite courses in finance
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,647
Out-of-state
$11,963
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,350
Out-of-state
$19,048
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
48,566
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Master’s Degrees in Finance 2025
Northeastern University
Boston, MA
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
In Northeastern's MS in quantitative finance, you'll gain financial and technical expertise that can prepare you for many financial services careers and the national CFA exam. In the STEM-designated program, course topics include financial strategy, international financial management, and investment analysis. You'll also study coding and engineering applications for financial analysis tools.
Northeastern's AACSB-accredited program features extensive experiential components, including an optional graduate co-op and an advanced research practicum. You can also join the 360 Huntington Fund team and get experience managing a live mutual fund.
Highlights
Graduate in 12-16 months
Test-optional admission process
Part-time and full-time schedules
Considerations
Requires an interview for admission
Only fall start dates
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$59,100
Out-of-state
$59,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$26,715
Out-of-state
$26,715
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
6%
Students Enrolled
38,760
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#6 Best Master’s Degrees in Finance 2025
Tulane University
New Orleans, LA
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Tulane's master of finance combines foundational and technical aspects. Along with courses in finance fundamentals, you participate in a career planning lab, consult with a startup, and complete practical projects within Freeman's Trading Center. You also have the option to pursue a summer internship.
The finance program prepares you for the CFA exam and a Bloomberg certificate. If you have a finance degree, you may qualify for up to nine transfer credits. Tulane's program is STEM-designated and a member of the University Affiliation Program of the CFA Institute, while the business school is AACSB accredited.
Highlights
Graduate in just 10 months
84% of graduates find employment within six months
Provides you with consideration for fellowships
Considerations
Requires GMAT or GRE scores from many applicants
Demands accounting and finance prerequisite courses
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$58,666
Out-of-state
$58,666
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$61,066
Out-of-state
$61,066
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
15%
Students Enrolled
12,285
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Master’s Degrees in Finance 2025
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
In JHU's MS in finance, you complete a mandatory concentration in financial econometrics, all while preparing for the CFA exam. The 36-credit STEM-designated curriculum includes courses in fixed income, statistical analysis, and corporate finance. You can also pursue electives in more specialized fields, including a student-managed investment fund course.
JHU offers multiple pathways, including a 15-month track with a summer internship and an online part-time option. JHU's AACSB-accredited business school offers access to a community consulting lab, case competitions, and a startup challenge.
Highlights
Graduate in 12 or 15 months
On-campus and online study options
Classes in Washington, D.C., or Baltimore, Maryland.
Considerations
One of the higher tuition prices on this list
Only fall starts
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$60,480
Out-of-state
$60,480
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$60,480
Out-of-state
$60,480
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
8%
Students Enrolled
30,363
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#8 Best Master’s Degrees in Finance 2025
DePaul University
Chicago, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
DePaul's MS in finance surrounds you with a prestigious and supportive alumni and faculty network and a thriving financial market. The STEM-designated program features a 48-credit curriculum with courses in financial analytics tools and investment analysis, plus electives in economics, data science, and computational methods.
DePaul's AACSB-accredited program has four enrollment openings throughout the year. It also offers internship opportunities and a mentorship program, along with access to valuable career support resources.
Highlights
91% employment rate within six months of graduation
Median annual salary of $66,500 for graduates
Over $3 million in scholarships to business school students
Considerations
Requires prerequisites in accounting, economics, and statistics principles
Only on-campus classes
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$42,449
Out-of-state
$42,449
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,719
Out-of-state
$21,719
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
21,348
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Master’s Degrees in Finance 2025
University of Houston-Clear Lake
Houston, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
In UHCL's MS in finance, you can choose between business analytics and healthcare administration concentrations. The 30-credit, STEM-designated program features courses in options and futures, portfolio management, and international finance. You also complete mandatory electives in business analytics, healthcare administration, and finance.
The AACSB-accredited program from UHCL features immersive hands-on projects to prepare you for the workforce and the CFA exam. The program also offers online, on-campus, and hybrid study options.
Highlights
The only online finance master's program in Houston
Three start dates
One of the most affordable tuition rates on this list
Considerations
Requires GMAT scores for admission for applicants with GPA lower than 3.0
No built-in internship
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,380
Out-of-state
$24,360
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,920
Out-of-state
$17,316
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
8,876
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Master’s Degrees in Finance 2025
University of San Diego
San Diego, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Start on the path to financial leadership and CFA certification with an AACSB-accredited MS in finance from USD. The STEM-designated curriculum features 33 credits in courses like alternative investments, equity valuation and modeling, and financial markets and institutions. The program concludes with a professional development course to help you transition to the workforce.
You can enjoy access to student finance groups and a finance lab with 40 Bloomberg terminals. USD also offers business analytics and MBA dual-degree pathways.
Highlights
Graduate employment rates of 92%
Graduate in 10 months
Average starting salary of $74,667 for recent graduates
Considerations
Prefers students from finance, accounting, and economics backgrounds
Incoming student average GPA of 3.36
Only fall start dates
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$53,810
Out-of-state
$53,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$28,404
Out-of-state
$28,404
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
47%
Students Enrolled
9,106
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
11%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
Our Ranking Methodology
Accounting.com ranks the best accounting degrees using reputable sources such as the U.S. Department of Education. We build our rankings with four main metrics in mind: academics, cost, reputation, and program availability. We also consider subfactors like retention rate, federal aid amounts, and return on investment to help you find the right program for you.
GMAC's Corporate Recruiters Survey 2023 reported a median starting salary of $85,000 per year for master's in finance graduates. That figure may rise significantly with more experience: Financial managers earn a median salary of more than $161,700 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Positive Hiring Trends
GMAC's survey found consistent increases in overall hiring of master's in finance graduates since 2018. It also found that 90% of U.S. employers who hired master's in finance graduates in 2023 recruited as many or more new finance professionals.
Excellent MBA Alternative
GMAC found that in 2024, full-time two-year MBA programs in the United States received a median of 443 applications while master's in finance programs attracted only about one-third as many. Reduced competition for limited slots makes master's in finance programs more accessible while arguably delivering more relevant training for finance careers.
What to Expect From a Master's Degree in Finance
Master's programs in finance explore finance theory, financial analysis, and investment strategy. Some curricula also cover business valuations, mergers and acquisitions, and other specialized topics. Learning objectives mainly focus on optimizing organizational finances, analyzing and managing risks, and advanced investing concepts.
Schools often structure their master's in finance programs for efficiency: Completion timelines generally fall in the range of 10-16 months, and curricula usually cover about 30-36 semester credits or the equivalent. Pacing tends to be intensive, but this approach facilitates quick workforce reentry.
You can choose from a master of science (MS) or master of finance (M.Fin.) degree designation. MS and M.Fin. programs tend to cover similar core concepts, with both degrees leading to comparable careers.
You can also pursue an MBA with a finance concentration. M.Fin. and MS programs in finance prepare you for targeted professional tracks, and an MBA might have more appeal if you have broader or more generalized goals for your business career.
Some master's programs in finance offer concentrations in areas like:
Capital markets
Corporate or international finance
Real estate
Risk management
You can also pursue highly specialized concentrations in areas like climate and social impact finance. Concentrated programs may involve additional coursework, which can extend your degree completion timeline. However, specializations can also help you qualify for careers that closely align with your personal interests or values.
You can choose from face-to-face, online, and hybrid formats. Campus-based programs often use a cohort structure that offers excellent peer networking opportunities. Online and hybrid formats maximize scheduling flexibility and efficiency, making them a good match for working students.
Online finance programs may use synchronous or asynchronous course delivery models. Synchronous classes follow set schedules and take place in real time, offering more peer and faculty access. Asynchronous classes involve pre-recorded lectures and set due dates, allowing you to complete your coursework when convenient.
Admissions Process
Master's in finance programs tend to receive fewer applications per seat than MBA programs, according to the GMAC. Even so, admissions processes are usually competitive. For your application to succeed, you will need to closely match the school's preferred student profile.
For master's programs in finance, this generally includes:
A four-year bachelor's degree, ideally in a relevant subject such as accounting, business, or finance
A strong record of academic achievement
Upper-level college coursework in mathematics (especially algebra, probability, and statistics)
Educational institutions that require tests usually ask for GMAT scores or GRE scores. Relevant professional experience may also strengthen your application.
While schools may favor applicants from related academic backgrounds, many also welcome applications from a diversity of undergraduate majors if you have a promising profile and the required coursework.
To earn your master's degree in finance, you will need to complete about 10 to 12 specialized courses. Programs typically include both core (required) courses that all students must take, plus electives that offer customization options.
Examples of courses you may encounter include:
Global Financial Markets: This core course defines and builds knowledge of the assets and asset classes traded in financial markets around the world. Examples include bonds, commodities, equities, and derivatives. Some programs also explore emerging and less conventional financial instruments, such as cryptocurrencies and alternative assets.
Applied Investment Management: In this required course, students learn about the expanding set of investment opportunities available in a world increasingly powered by financial technologies. Content considers both conventional and emerging approaches to investment management. Some schools engage students in managing live investment funds or institutional endowments.
Financial Data Analytics: Students in this elective examine processes and strategies for using technological tools in the advanced analysis of financial data. Coursework emphasizes applied analytics, looking at how data analysis can uncover novel opportunities and inform investing and financial management decision-making.
Enterprise Valuation: This course teaches students how to analyze financial statements to quantify a company's financial value. Instructors may also consider alternative forms of data, such as consumer sentiment and industry-related trends. In generalist programs, this course is usually an elective but may be required in corporate finance concentrations.
How Much Do Finance Master's Programs Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), graduate students paid the following average costs in tuition and required fees in the 2021-22 school year:
Public institutions: $12,596 per year
Private for-profit institutions: $14,161 per year
Public nonprofit institutions: $29,931 per year
Private institutions of all types averaged out to $28,017 in annual costs, while the overall average for both public and private schools worked out to $20,513 per year.
For help meeting your educational costs, look first to scholarships, fellowships, and grants — these do not require repayment and will not generate debt. The links below offer more information on how to pay for graduate school:
Master's degrees in finance lead most directly to analytical and managerial roles in enterprise finance. At the entry level, these include budget analyst and financial analyst positions. As your career grows, you could pursue a financial manager role or strive to reach the C-suite as a chief financial officer.
Consider these career paths, which profile a curated selection of popular and high-growth jobs available to finance specialists:
Financial analysts examine internal, industry, and financial market data to extract operational insights and identify growth opportunities. Occupying mid-level roles in finance departments, analysts also look into ways organizations can use their financial resources to advance their short-term and long-term goals. Their duties also include studying broader trends and producing written reports.
These senior finance department leaders guide financial decision-making. They select investments and capital deployment projects, track and analyze their organization's financial standing, and liaise with upper management in advancing long-term organizational goals. Financial managers also directly supervise junior finance personnel.
Certified management accountants (CMAs) strategically leverage their accounting expertise, helping employers navigate legally compliant financial reporting techniques to maximum organizational advantage. The role involves certification from the Institute of Management Accountants. Combining a bachelor's degree in accounting with a master's degree in finance makes an excellent educational background for aspiring CMAs.
Wealth managers help guide the investment and personal financial management decisions of high-net-worth individuals. They recommend investment vehicles, build balanced and risk-managed asset portfolios, and assist in tax and estate planning. An alternate job title is financial planner.
Should You Get a Finance Master's or a General Accounting Master's?
Finance and accounting overlap and students with interests in both areas sometimes find it difficult to choose between the two. The following table explores key features of master's degrees in finance and accounting, highlighting similarities and differences:
Comparing Master's in Finance and Accounting
Key Factor
Master's in Finance
Master's in Accounting
Core Academic Concepts
Financial analysis and modelingRisk analysis and managementCapital marketsInvestment vehicles and management; Corporate valuation; Mergers and acquisitions
A master's degree in finance might make a better match if your career plans focus on banking, capital markets, enterprise financial management, or investing.
If you are more interested in financial tracking and reporting, auditing, fraud detection, taxation, and certified or licensed accountancy careers, consider a master's in accounting instead.
Many reputable schools offer master's degrees in finance, and narrowing down your options can be challenging. As you evaluate programs, prioritize the features most important to you and your career plans. These may include:
Concentration Options: If you want to specialize in a finance subfield, seek out programs with aligned learning opportunities.
Student Outcome Data: Look at student outcome data related to employment rates and average starting salaries. If this information is not publicly available, request it from the school.
Format and Enrollment Options: If you need flexibility, you may want to prioritize programs that offer online or hybrid learning, and programs that support part-time enrollment.
A master's degree in finance offers the most direct, detailed, and relevant training. However, you can also consider MBA programs with a finance concentration, master's programs in accounting, and master of science in management programs.
How much does a finance master's program cost?
The average cost of a U.S. graduate program was $20,513 for the 2021-2022 school year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Public institutions are less expensive than private schools, with overall costs averaging approximately 55% less.
How long does a master's in finance take?
If you study full time, you can usually graduate in about 10-16 months. However, expect to follow a fast-paced and intensive learning schedule. Your graduation timeline could be longer if you pursue a finance concentration, which may require additional coursework.
Can you get a finance master's degree online?
Yes, many accredited institutions offer 100% online master's degrees in finance, and hybrid programs that combine traditional and distance learning. Online enrollment offers more flexibility and convenience, but it also demands more independence and self-discipline.
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