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Online Master of Science in Finance

Total Credit Hours

36

Cost Per Credit Hour

$965

Application Deadline: December 16, 2024

Spring 1 2025 classes start on January 13, 2025

Gain the Analytical Skills to Compete in the World of Finance

The online Master of Science in Finance is offered through the LSU E. J. Ourso College of Business and LSU Online. This flexible degree program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of financial principles, preparing them to become leaders in the complex field of finance. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including financial analysis, auditing, data analysis, portfolio management, financial information technology, and more. Students have the flexibility to complete the program entirely online, allowing them to balance their academic pursuits with their professional and personal responsibilities. Graduates of the program will be well-equipped to pursue a variety of careers within the financial industry, including investment banking, corporate finance, and risk management.

The MS in Finance graduates are equipped with the skills and expertise to become leaders in top companies across all industries such as Stephens, Inc., Capital One, Chase Bank, Exxon, Shell, SAS Institute.

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Save Time and Money
Apply Your Past Certifications and Training to Earn Credit Towards a Master of Science in Finance.

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Expert Instructors

LSU’s professors are recognized as thought leaders in their fields, ensuring that the online experience is as rewarding as that of an on-campus classroom.

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Convenience

Complete the degree 100% online and on your time while balancing work, family and other responsibilities.

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Earn Graduate Certificates

With just 36 credit hours, students can earn their Master’s degree in finance and multiple graduate certificates.

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Prepare for Industry Exams

Our online master’s degree in finance can help students prepare for exams such as the Chartered Financial Analyst exam (CFA).

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Omega Nu Lambda Online Honors Society

Students enrolled in this program are eligible for membership in the Omega Nu Lambda (ONL) Honor Society. Created to recognize the academic excellence of online students, ONL provides access to exclusive networking opportunities, scholarships, and a lifelong community of like-minded achievers. Enrich your college experience and connect with peers globally through Omega Nu Lambda!

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The online MS in Finance program is open to students from a variety of backgrounds, including business, economics, engineering, and more. Whether you're looking to advance your career in finance or start a new one, our program at LSU is the perfect choice.

Dr. Clifford Stephens
Director of Graduate Studies - MS Finance/MS Financial Economics, Louisiana State University

Explore This Program

Cost Online Master of Science in Finance

Total credit hours per program: 36 credit hours

Cost per credit hour: $965

Total cost with fees: $34,740

LSU Online offers several ways to help you pay for your degree including credit for prior learning (PLA), financial aid, and veteran education benefits. Learn More.

The total cost above does not include transfer credit or financial aid. Cost per credit hour and fees are subject to change. Fee schedules may vary by program depending on course-specific fees for proctoring and/or books. Please contact a Student Success Coach for more information.

Course Listings Online Master of Science in Finance

The online Master of Science in Finance requires 36 total credit hours with 12 hours of open electives.

Core Courses Credit hours
FIN 7633 Financial Markets 3
FIN 7719 Advanced Financial Management 3
FIN 7826 Investment Analysis and Portfolio Theory 3
FIN 7701 Corporate Finance 3
Specialization Courses Credit hours
FIN 7720 (1) FinTech: Intro to Financial Modeling w MatLab 3
FIN 7708 Financial Analytics I 3
FIN 7720 (2) Financial Modeling in Excel 3
FIN 7709 Financial Analytics II 3

Electives:

In consultation with their Academic Advisor, students will select a Graduate Certificate elective track from the College of Business offered through LSU Online to fulfill the remaining 12 approved credits at 7000 or above.

Admission Requirements Online Master of Science in Finance

Bachelor's degree from a regionally-accredited college or university or the equivalent from a foreign institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on all undergraduate and graduate work already completed. You must provide transcripts for all of the colleges you have attended (regardless of degree completion) and upload copies with your application.

Application Requirements

Students seeking the MS Finance degree must meet all degree requirements specified by the Pinkie Gordon Lane Graduate School as well as specific departmental requirements outlined in the MS Finance Admissions section. Prospective students should send all applicant documents and materials to the Pinkie Gordon Lane Graduate School. Applicants should be sure to include:

  • Résumé
  • 2 letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Encourage but do not require work experience.
  • Copies of the applicant's GMAT and TOEFL (international only) scores
    • GMAT Waived for students with a GPA of 3.3 or higher

A 600 or better on the GMAT (the code for LSU is 6373).

Applicants should also be proficient in office applications software (i.e., word processor, spreadsheet, and presentation).

Additional information about LSU Graduate admission requirements are located here.

Career Opportunities Online Master of Science in Finance

  • Financial Analyst
  • Wealth Manager
  • Forensic Accountant
  • Investment Banking Analyst
  • Corporate Controller
  • Actuary
  • Mergers and Acquisition Analyst
  • Financial Consultant
  • Fixed Income Analyst
  • REIT Manager
  • Portfolio Manager
  • Capital Advisor

Credit for Prior Learning Online Master of Science in Finance

The online MS Finance will award the following for Credit for Prior Learning:

  • Students who hold a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation may earn up to 9 credits for the following courses: FIN 7701, FIN 7633, and FIN 7826.
  • Students who have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree may earn up to 9 elective credits excluding the following courses: FIN 7706, FIN 7707, FIN 7708, FIN 7709, FIN 7633, FIN 7719, and FIN 7826.

Accreditation Online Master of Science in Finance

The online Master of Finance degree program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

What Will I Learn? Online Master of Science in Finance

The online Master of Science in Finance program provides students with the analytical and communication skills necessary for effective financial decision-making through the application of financial theory and quantitative techniques.

By the end of the program, students will:

  • Understand and apply the general theory and concepts of corporate finance
  • Understand and apply the general theory and concepts of asset pricing, investments and portfolio theory
  • Understand and apply the theory and concepts of financial intermediation
  • Demonstrate technical proficiency in the application of financial information technology
  • Effectively communicate both written and orally in at least on area of finance

Why Choose This Program? Online Master of Science in Finance

Why choose LSU’s online Master of Science in Finance?

Our master’s degree in finance offers a comprehensive curriculum and the chance to learn the skills necessary to become a leader in the finance industry. The program focuses on practical learning experiences and building competencies in financial information technology. Additionally, the flexibility of online coursework is ideal for working professionals. Students can also earn at least one graduate certificate simply by taking a standard course load. After completing the program, graduates will be well-prepared for a potentially lucrative career in finance.

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Ready to reach your goals?

Take the first step forward by completing the form and our enrollment team will contact you soon to discuss:

  • Additional information on the Master of Science in Finance online program
  • Financial aid options (employer funding, military benefits)
  • Receiving credit for past education (transfer, professional development)
  • The admissions process and timeline

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