The University of Utah Masters in Finance program has been featured on this site in the past, but there have been some recent changes that I think are of interest to everyone on this site. The program has really worked to develop itself as a placement centered program which mirrors Utah and the surrounding areas rise with NYC based financial firms. Last year the average salary for program graduates was over $80,000, very impressive for being outside of the NYC metro area.
The program allows students to specialize in financial analysis, investments, corporate finance, venture capital, business valuation, financial information systems, and general finance. Students are also able create a custom specialization to suite their personal and professional needs. Additionally, students can take advantage of a high yield bond fund run in participation with Zions National Bank, a student venture fund and other consulting groups.
Students with prior work experience or CFA Level I can also test out of the GMAT. Great option for those in the Salt Lake City area. The program also provides good scholarships for income students. The website says up to 30% of the programs cost can be covered for select students. This is pretty good, especially considering the relatively modest cost of tuition.
Placements, what everyone cares about, are impressive. You can read all about the Utah’s career outcomes here, but I am including below some of the key employers I think will be of interest.
- Goldman Sachs
- Wells Fargo
- Citi
- LDD Partners
- University of Utah
- Foursight Capital LLC
- Morningstar, Wex, Inc.
- Zions Bank
- Phillips Edison & Company
- Royal Bank of Scotland
- Shanghai Kuailu Investment Group
- Vita Medical Devices
- American Healthcare Lending
- SolarCity
- Pinnacle Quality Insight
- Select Portfolio Servicing
- First Utah Bank
- The Martin Worley Group
- CR Investment Management
- FDIC
- L-3 Communications
- Xifin
- First Western Advisors
- Cadinha & Co, LLC
- CapGro
- ThinkFunding
- State of Utah
2014 placement info is also included:
- 85% – Percent of graduates employed two months post-graduation
- $67,500 – Average starting salary with prior finance experience
- $60,143 – Average starting salary overall
- 100% – Percent of eligible students who completed an internship
- $80,000 – High starting salary
I’ve spoke with the individual who is focused on the career aspect of the program and he is doing great things. I am fairly confident that placements will continue to grow and expand outside of the Salt Lake City/West Coast area.
I will keep everyone posted as more information is available.
Here is a link to the University of Utah Masters in Finance Program
