Program Overview

Why get a CSUF MS in Finance degree?

A master's degree in finance can help you take the next step toward your career goals by expanding your knowledge, strengthening your professional qualifications and preparing you for evolving opportunities in the finance industry. CSUF's accelerated three-semester program is designed to help you earn your graduate degree in 12 to 17 months while exploring specialized areas of finance that align with your interests. Whether you're transitioning directly from undergraduate study or looking to pivot your career, this full-time daytime program helps you build a strong foundation for long-term professional growth.

Choose Your Concentration

Students in the program will have the opportunity to choose from different concentrations designed to provide specialized expertise in high-demand areas of finance.

  • Corporate Finance
  • Investments
  • Risk Management
  • Additional Specializations

Course Highlights

Specialized Program Curriculum

The MS in Finance curriculum is designed to build advanced financial knowledge and analytical skills through a blend of core coursework and specialized electives. Students explore key areas such as investments, corporate finance, financial markets and risk management, while applying concepts to real-world business scenarios.

Corporate Financial Management

Corporate financial management focuses on how organizations make investment, financing and capital structure decisions, including how financial theory and models apply in domestic and international business settings.

Business Valuation, Mergers and Acquisitions

Business valuation, mergers and acquisitions examine how companies are valued, how deals are structured and how financial analysis supports acquisition decisions.

Investment Management

Investment management explores portfolio strategy, risk evaluation, investment criteria, interest rate movements, valuation, timing and the regulatory environment shaping the investment industry.

Enterprise Risk Management

Enterprise risk management helps organizations identify, assess and manage financial, strategic, operational and regulatory risks through integrated risk frameworks and decision-making tools.

Careers in Finance

Why get an MS in Finance?

The CSUF MS in Finance prepares graduates for advanced careers in corporate finance, investments, financial services and data-driven finance roles. Students develop strong analytical, quantitative and strategic decision-making skills that apply across a wide range of finance careers.

Graduates of the MS in Finance pursue careers in the following areas:

  • Corporate Finance and Financial Planning
  • Investments and Portfolio Management
  • Banking, Credit and Risk Management
  • Financial Planning and Wealth Management
  • FinTech and Financial Analytics

Program Cost

Invest in Your Future

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Cal State Fullerton College of Business and Economics combines a high-quality graduate education with competitive tuition, delivering exceptional value as you prepare for the next stage of your academic and professional journey.

Earn a respected graduate business degree that strengthens your qualifications, expands your expertise and supports your long-term career goals.

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How to Apply

Admission Process

Visit the graduate admissions page for the complete application process, admission requirements and current filing deadlines. Admission is based on a holistic review of academic background, professional experience and preparation for graduate study.

Review the requirements and application steps below, then submit all required materials by the applicable deadline.

Admissions Requirements

CBE at Cal State Fullerton

Review the admission requirements for GPA, test score, transcript and international applicant details before you start your application.

Application Deadlines

  • Aug 1 Fall 2027 Applications Open
  • Jun 15 Fall 2027 Applications Close

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Is a MS in Finance worth it?

An MS in Finance can help you develop advanced financial and analytical skills that are increasingly in demand across today's finance industry. As employers seek professionals who can navigate financial markets, AI-driven tools and data-informed decision-making, a specialized graduate degree can help you stand out. At Cal State Fullerton, the MS in Finance combines advanced coursework with experiential learning to prepare graduates for careers in corporate finance, investments, risk management, financial planning and real estate.

How long does the MS in Finance Take?

The CSUF MS in Finance program is designed to be completed in 12 to 17 months across three semesters. Students will complete 6 required courses that build a strong foundation in advanced finance, then choose three electives to tailor their degree to their career goals. Elective pathways include corporate finance, investments, risk management and additional specialized finance pathway options.

Do I need a business degree to apply?

Yes, applicants should have an undergraduate degree in finance or, at minimum, another business major (such as accounting, management, marketing or business administration). This background ensures students have the foundational knowledge needed to succeed in graduate-level finance coursework.

Is the CSUF MS in Finance program accredited?

Yes, the MS in Finance is offered through the College of Business and Economics at Cal State Fullerton, which is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). CSUF is also the only business school in Orange County with dual AACSB accreditation in both business and accounting.

Is the GMAT required to apply to the MS in Finance program?

No, the GMAT/GRE is not required for admission. Applicants should review the admission requirements to ensure they meet all eligibility criteria.