In keeping with my Texas theme, I wanted to provide a general update on the Southern Methodist University MSF program. There have been a bunch of Covid-19 related modifications to the program and the admissions window is upcoming so it makes sense to get a fulsome update for everyone. I will be doing a separate post on career placements in the upcoming week as well so stay tuned for that.
General Update
The SMU MSF program is now STEM-designated, which is incredibly important for international students. The program is also continuing its testing optional policy for Fall 2021 applicants. Applicants may choose whether to submit a GMAT, GRE or TOEFL/IELTS score as a part of their application. I like this optionality and it can save a lot of time and money for those with an otherwise strong application who do not want to prep for these admission tests.
The program is now 34 credit hours in length (an increase of 2 since I last wrote about it. I an effort to distinguish the SMU Masters in Finance from other programs they have designed the curriculum around four areas of unique competency:
- Alternative Assets
- Energy Finance
- Real-time Markets and Trading
- Investment Portfolios
The degree can be completed either full-time, over four modules (two semesters) or a part-time basis over eight modules (four semesters).
Class Profile
The current class profile for the 2020 class is as follows:
- Size – 62
- Average GPA – 3.3
- Average GMAT – 626
- Average GRA – 310
- Average Age – 24
- Women – 21%
- International – 24%
Looking at this, it appears to be a larger class program, rather diverse (the website mentions 25% of students being minority), with good scores for the GMAT/GRE. Obtainable for many students and a program that has a strong track record of outstanding placements. Dallas is a great city and job market as well.
Admissions
I mentioned above that the GRE, GMAT and TOEFL are optional this year. Other than that, the application process is the same as it has been. Transcripts, essays, resume, etc. As of this writing, the final round for admissions has passed. The school is now accepting applications on a rolling basis. If you want to apply to this program, I strong suggest you reach out to the admissions office fast.
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Check back soon for the 2020 placement information on this program. I know you’ll want to read about that as it is pretty impressive from what I have seen. More to come!
Here is a link to the Southern Methodist University Masters in Finance Program
