I was going through some old posts and came across the Michigan State University Master in Finance program that I posted about way back when. Realizing I hadn’t updated this MSF in a while, I figured the time is write to give all of you an update. This was one of the newer Masters in Finance degrees started up a number of years ago and the program has developed nicely. Michigan State has a great alumni base and reputation and it is definitely an option I am sure many of you would want to consider. Since it has been so long since my last post I will include a general overview of the degree. Enjoy!
Program Overview
The Michigan State MSF is a 12 month, on campus program that is STEM certified. This Masters in Finance starts in August and ends the following year. Classes include financial management, financial modeling, investments, financial data analytics, machine learning in artificial intelligence, and international finance. 12 credits are electives, allowing students to customize their learning experience. Something unique to this program that should be noted is that students are expected to maintain a 3.25 gpa. Most graduate programs have a 3.0 requirement so keep this in mind when considering your application.
Admissions
Application requirements are pretty standard. GMAT/GRE waivers are available (they mention for those taking the exam that a 600 minimum is required). Current MSU undergrads who are in good standing can request a waiver as well. Resume, recommendations and essays are also required. The website mentioned the following as well:
- Applicants should have a four-year undergraduate degree from a recognized educational institution, with a cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 or higher.
- Have at least two years of full-time work experience after earning the bachelor’s degree. This condition can be waived for exceptional candidates.
- Students should complete equivalents of MTH 124: Survey of Calculus I and STT 315: Introductory Probability and Statistics for Business.
International students are required to prove English Language proficiency as well.
Application Deadlines
You can submitted your application at any time; deadlines for complete applications are as follows:
- First round deadline: February 1. Decision will be communicated by February 21.
- Second round deadline: March 1. Decision will be communicated by March 20.
Tuition
Tuition for the M.S. in Finance is currently $$45,000 (for out-of-state students) or $42,990 (for in-state students) and covers tuition charges for credits and departmental fees. This is as of August 2021. Make sure you check back when you plan on applying to confirm the current costs. As far as MSF programs go, this is pretty affordable.
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I like the unique aspects of this program. Higher GPA requirement will really push students to master the material. All students having work experience gives the class a real world element that programs comprised of recent graduates do not have. Having a GMAT/GRE waiver is also nice. Plus, you can customize your curriculum with electives. Combine all these with an affordable tuition and a known brand with plenty of alumni.
More to follow on this MSF. Hopefully I can find some student reviews or placement information for all of you. Check back soon!
Here is a link to the Michigan State University Master in Finance Program
