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Are you working toward a career in enterprise finance or looking for a practical MBA alternative? Explore the benefits of a master's in finance with this degree guide and ranking.
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Master of finance programs have become increasingly popular with graduate business students in recent years. These focused, efficient programs make a strong match for committed learners working toward careers in enterprise finance. They may also appeal to people seeking practical alternatives to MBAs.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), more than 300 U.S. universities offer advanced degrees in finance-related academic areas. The availability of graduate-level finance programs speaks to their rising profile among career-oriented business students.
Advanced finance degrees equip learners with in-demand skills that remain relevant amid changing economic and labor market conditions. By earning this degree, you may forge an entry path to a stable career with solid pay.
This degree guide and ranking explain what master of finance programs have to offer. Discover detailed descriptions of top programs and practical details about the application and admission processes. Use the information and resources below to launch your program search and compare schools of interest.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Our Master's in Finance Ranking
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#1 Best Master of Finance Degrees 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 of Finance Degrees 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 of Finance Degrees 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 of Finance Degrees 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 of Finance Degrees 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 of Finance Degrees 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 of Finance Degrees 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 of Finance Degrees 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 of Finance Degrees 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 of Finance Degrees 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.
Focused Learning: Master of finance programs support your ongoing development into becoming an expert-level specialist, which appeals to employers. You can build deeper, more detailed knowledge of enterprise finance than you might acquire even in a finance-focused MBA program.
Less Crowding and Competition: MBA programs attract many learners, leading to competitive admissions and crowded classrooms. With fewer learners seeking graduate degrees in finance, you may find the admissions process to be less stressful. You can also benefit from smaller class sizes, which provide more student-instructor interactions.
Flexibility and Earning Potential: Master of finance programs support entry to specialized business careers with growth and advancement potential. Many of these careers offer appealing pay. You may also qualify for roles in other finance-adjacent areas, such as accounting or actuarial science.
What to Expect From a Finance Master's Degree
Master's programs in finance typically cover finance theory, financial analysis, and the investment-oriented study of financial markets. Assignments build targeted, practical skills in areas like business valuation and financial reporting methods and standards.
Coursework usually covers 30-36 semester credits, with schools often prioritizing efficiency. You can typically complete a master of finance degree in 10-16 months of intensive full-time study.
Schools offer master of finance programs in both face-to-face and online formats. Campus-based programs usually place students in cohorts, leading to excellent networking opportunities. Online formats maximize flexibility and allow you to balance your schooling with other commitments, even if you continue working while earning your degree.
At the master's level, finance programs typically lead to master of science (MS) or master of finance (M.Fin.) degrees. You can also pursue an MBA with a finance concentration. However, these programs typically only dedicate elective classes to finance, while core coursework focuses on generalist business management topics.
In general, M.Fin. and MS programs appeal to students with strong, specific academic and professional interests in enterprise finance. Consider general or finance-concentrated MBA programs if you want to work in business management but have broader career goals.
Some schools offer concentrated master of finance degrees. Concentrated programs let you zero in on targeted finance specializations but may have longer completion timelines.
Common concentration options include:
Asset management
International finance
Investment management
Risk management
You can also explore program format and course delivery options beyond face-to-face and online learning. Hybrid models, which combine campus-based and online coursework, may appeal to you if you live within commuting distance of your school.
Online courses may feature asynchronous pre-recorded lectures or synchronous live meetings. Both options offer unique advantages. Asynchronous classes let you self-direct your learning schedule, which offers an ideal pathway for working students. Synchronous courses make it easier to engage with your classmates and receive answers from instructors in real time.
Admissions Process
Many master of finance programs have competitive admission processes. In general, though, they are considered less competitive than MBA programs — especially at high-profile or prestigious schools.
Strong candidates typically possess:
Impressive undergraduate GPAs
College-level coursework in statistics, probability, algebra, and/or other mathematical disciplines
Personal profiles that line up well with professional success standards
Schools may consider a bachelor's degree in accounting, actuary science, business, finance, or mathematics an asset. However, graduate finance programs often accept applicants from diverse academic backgrounds.
Many institutions — including top business schools — continue to move toward test-optional admission policies. If standardized test requirements apply, they will usually seek GMAT or GRE scores.
Your curriculum depends on factors like your specialization and the program's underlying philosophy. Even so, most master's programs in finance cover a common set of core topics. Elective options also feature significant overlap from one school to the next.
With those caveats in mind, consider the following commonly offered courses:
Managerial Finance: In this course, students explore financial forecasting, capital budgeting, risk management, and strategies for optimizing corporate financial value. The course also explores the relationship between risk and return, providing insight into practical ways to maximize the reach and impact of a firm's financial holdings.
Financial Markets: This course defines and builds knowledge of assets traded in various financial markets. Instructors typically cover securities, commodities, derivatives, and foreign exchange markets. Some programs may explore unconventional alternatives, such as cryptocurrency markets.
Investing and Portfolio Management: Finance professionals play a leading role in investment selection and portfolio management. This course explores foundational corporate investment concepts, introducing ways to optimize returns while maintaining strong financial health. Finance programs may also cover trading strategies and asset pricing in this course.
Principles of Enterprise Valuation: Corporations often need their finance teams to perform valuation analyses internally or on other businesses. This course, typically offered as an elective, introduces valuation best practices and builds student proficiency in applying them.
How Much Do Finance Master's Programs Cost?
NCES data from the 2021-22 school year specified the following tuition averages for various institution types:
Public colleges: $12,596
Private for-profit colleges: $14,161
Private nonprofit colleges: $28,017
While you can use these figures as a general guideline, the actual cost of your program may vary according to factors like:
School location, reputation, and prestige
Whether you attend a public school as an in-state or out-of-state student
Program and course delivery format
As you budget, remember to factor in additional costs. If you attend a campus-based program, these may include relocation, rent, transportation, and parking. If you study online, you should consider technology fees, software licenses, and computer equipment upgrades.
If you need financial aid, start by seeking scholarships and other non-repayable funding sources like grants. Use federal and private loans sparingly. The following resources offer more information:
Online education has made significant strides in recent years. Most colleges and graduate schools no longer distinguish between campus-based and online learning in transcripts and on diplomas. By studying online, you may also qualify for lower tuition rates while avoiding relocation, commuting, and parking expenses.
The advantages of online learning may come with trade-offs. Online learning demands more independence and self-motivation. It also exchanges some of the social and networking benefits of the traditional campus experience for increased convenience and flexibility.
Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether your learning style and personal preferences make you a good candidate for an online education.
Finance Jobs and Salaries
People typically associate master of finance degrees with corporate roles in financial analysis and management. These common career options may offer advancement opportunities, potentially allowing dedicated professionals to reach the executive ranks. The C-suite chief financial officer role stands at the top of this path.
However, you can also pursue other opportunities with a master's degree in finance. The following list profiles some common and alternative roles to consider.
Mainly working in corporate settings, financial analysts perform duties related to financial forecasting. They recommend ways for employers to reduce costs, optimize spending, and improve investment returns. Financial analysts can also pursue professional certifications to enhance their job prospects.
The advanced investment, trading, and financial market knowledge you can acquire in a master of finance program translates well to careers in wealth management. Wealth managers work for businesses and clients, helping them choose investments, optimize returns, and apply tax strategies.
Typically possessing certified management accountant (CMA) certification, these specialists offer expertise in accounting and financial strategy. Applying their advanced skills to tasks like budgeting and the financial aspects of business operations, CMAs typically hold high-level roles with executive potential. Pairing an undergraduate degree in accounting with a master's degree in finance may help you succeed on CMA certification exams.
Actuaries analyze and evaluate the financial costs associated with risk. Though they are primarily affiliated with the insurance industry, actuaries also work in corporate finance and investment. To enter this lucrative, fast-growing career path, you may need to pass rigorous certification exams.
Master of finance programs overlap with other business-focused graduate degrees, including graduate programs in accounting. As such, you may be unsure which to pursue — especially if you have not yet committed to a specific career path.
The following table compares master's degrees in finance and accounting.
Comparing Master's in Finance and Accounting
Key Factor
Master's in Finance
Master's in Accounting
Program Length
Typically 10-16 months
Typically 18-24 months
Credit Requirements
About 30-36
About 30-36
Topics Covered
Financial data analysis; financial theory and forecasting; investment and wealth management; financial market structures and trading strategies; risk management
Financial or managerial accounting; individual and/or corporate taxation; financial statement preparation and analysis; auditing; business law
If you are interested in both accounting and finance, note that some schools offer dual master's degrees in both disciplines.
These programs may lead to business careers that demand advanced knowledge of both accounting and finance. They also offer excellent preparation for certification exams.
A master of finance is a graduate business degree program focused on corporate financial analysis, financial forecasting, investments, and risk management. Professionals who aspire to careers in enterprise financial management often pursue these degrees.
How much does a finance master's program cost?
NCES data from the 2021-22 school year identified national average graduate school tuition rates of $20,513 per year for all degree types. Graduate students at public colleges paid an annual average of $12,596 in tuition and required fees, while learners at private nonprofit institutions paid an annual average of $29,931.
Can you get a finance master's degree online?
Yes -- accredited and reputable schools offer master's degrees in finance through face-to-face and online learning. You can also enroll in hybrid programs that blend campus-based and e-learning.
Is a master's worth it in finance?
A master's in finance may put you in a strong position to earn excellent returns on your educational investment. Payscale data from July 2024 indicates that professionals with this degree earn an average base salary of $81,000 per year.
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