Program Overview
The Master of Science in Finance (MSF) program at SJSU prepares students for corporate finance roles by combining accounting and finance knowledge with technical and analytical skills. Offered in full-time and part-time tracks, the program emphasizes communication, professional development, and career readiness. Graduates are equipped for careers as corporate finance analysts, financial analysts, and other finance professionals.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Science in Finance (MSF) program prepares students for careers in finance units of non-financial firms. The program emphasizes the knowledge necessary to succeed in corporate finance roles. It teaches students to develop an evidence-based mindset and apply technical finance concepts to corporate financial planning & analysis problems. The program is designed to combine accounting and finance knowledge, as well as provide experience with the relevant technology to prepare well rounded professionals for careers in corporate finance roles. In addition to technical and analytical skills, the program emphasizes the development of communication skills, professional development, and career readiness. The MSF program is offered in two tracks: full-time and part-time. The full-time track allows students to complete the program within 12 months, while the part-time track allows students to complete the degree within 24 months. Classes meet evenings and Saturdays in eight-week sessions year-round. In-person class sessions are held on the SJSU campus.
Outline:
The MSF program consists of 30 units of coursework, including:
- Core Courses (18 units)
- BUS 200F - Leadership Communication for Finance Professionals (2 units)
- BUS 220 - Financial Accounting (3 units)
- BUS 220A - Financial Statement Analysis for Accountants (3 units)
- BUS 265F - Silicon Valley Experience for Finance Professionals (1 unit)
- BUS 270 - Financial Management (3 units)
- BUS 270A - Financial Planning and Analysis (3 units)
- BUS 270C - Financial Modeling and Data Visualization (3 units)
- Elective Courses (9 units)
- Students may include up to two BUS elective courses in the MBA or MSA programs subject to approval by program directors.
- BUS 222 - Profit Planning and Control (3 units)
- BUS 270B - Financial Derivatives for Corporate Finance (3 units)
- BUS 273 - Business Valuation (3 units)
- Culminating Experience (3 units)
- BUS 270D - Case Studies in Corporate Finance (3 units)
Assessment:
Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Exams
- Quizzes
- Homework assignments
- Projects
- Presentations
Teaching:
The MSF program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are experts in their field. The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Case studies
- Simulations
- Guest lectures
Careers:
Graduates of the MSF program are prepared for a variety of careers in finance, including:
- Corporate finance analyst
- Financial analyst
- Investment analyst
- Portfolio manager
- Risk manager
- Treasury manager
San Jose State University
Overview:
San Jose State University (SJSU) is a public university located in San Jose, California. It is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in business, engineering, and nursing. SJSU is also recognized for its commitment to student success and its location in the heart of Silicon Valley, providing students with access to numerous career opportunities.
Services Offered:
SJSU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
King Library, tutoring services, academic advising, and career counseling.Student Life:
Housing options, health and wellness services, campus safety, and student organizations.Research and Innovation:
Opportunities for student-faculty collaborations, research centers and institutes, and partnerships with industry leaders.Online Learning:
SJSU Online offers flexible and affordable programs for students with busy lifestyles.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at SJSU can expect a vibrant and diverse campus community. The university offers a variety of events, traditions, and student organizations to foster a sense of belonging and engagement. The campus is located in close proximity to Silicon Valley, providing students with access to numerous cultural and entertainment options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Location in Silicon Valley:
Provides access to numerous career opportunities and industry connections.Strong Academic Programs:
Offers a wide range of programs, particularly in business, engineering, and nursing.Affordable Education:
Provides a high-quality education at a relatively affordable cost.Commitment to Student Success:
Offers a variety of support services to help students succeed academically and professionally.Academic Programs:
SJSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across nine colleges:
- Business
- Education
- Engineering
- Graduate Studies
- Health and Human Sciences
- Humanities and the Arts
- Professional Education
- Science
- Social Sciences
Other:
SJSU is a highly ranked university, consistently recognized for its value, innovation, and social mobility. The university is committed to sustainability and has received numerous awards for its environmental initiatives.
Entry Requirements:
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited university in the U.S. or the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree earned from a recognized institution if the degree was earned outside of the U.S.
- A preferred GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale.
- An English language proficiency examination if the previously earned degree was from an institution in which the principal language of instruction was not English. The university’s minimum entrance score for the TOEFL is 213 (computer-based) or 80 (internet-based). The minimum score required on the IELTS is 6.5, and the minimum PTE score is 53.
- A personal statement of one to two pages explaining how an MSF would help to achieve the applicant’s career objectives.
- A resume detailing the candidate’s professional and academic experiences.
- (Optional) Two letters of recommendation.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- An English language proficiency examination if the previously earned degree was from an institution in which the principal language of instruction was not English. The university’s minimum entrance score for the TOEFL is 213 (computer-based) or 80 (internet-based). The minimum score required on the IELTS is 6.5, and the minimum PTE score is 53.
