Financial careers are experiencing strong growth nationwide, so earning credentials from accredited finance degree programs in Pennsylvania can improve job prospects in the field. According to Forbes, graduate finance degrees are currently among the top ten best masters to hold in terms of job growth and compensation factors. In part, this is due to the flexibility of finance degrees which can be personalized for study. Degrees that are geared towards business or managerial responsibilities often fall under business administration programs, earning a coveted MBA. By comparison, for technology oriented programs, graduates may earn master of science degrees with fiance specializations. No matter which path is chosen, master’s degrees in finance from accredited programs in Pennsylvania will enhance opportunities for landing jobs in a fiercely competitive market.
LaSalle University
School of Business
As a private, Christian institution, LaSalle University believes in preparing its graduates to use their leadership and degree skills in service to others. Its rigorous, experiential studies assist graduates to find competitive employment, advance careers or move on to further educational studies. The 2015 edition of U.S. News & World Report ranked LaSalle at number 31 for best regional colleges in the North. The school also comes in at number eight nationwide in Money magazine’s August 2014 edition for adding the most value in a college education.
One-Year MBA or Post-MBA Certificate
There are three ways to concentrate LaSalle’s MBA finance degrees. Students may choose to personalize the one-year MBA by choosing either a financial management track or one that leads to becoming a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). A third option is to add a certification in finance to an existing MBA degree. The one-year MBA with finance specialization requires 42.5 credits of intensive study covering upper level courses such as: financial management, portfolios and investing, strategic marketing, tax strategies, global business skills, information technology, leadership and negotiation practices, mergers and acquisitions principles, and written communication skills for business. Candidates with a financial management focus take a class in enterprise risk management, while those in the CFA track take an investment analysis seminar. Furthermore, students in both tracks must complete a capstone project. The post-MBA certification in finance is designed for career professionals who wish to specialize their current MBA degrees. Coursework involves 9 to twelve credits of study from among several finance class options. To accommodate work schedules, classes are held in the evenings at three different regional locations.
Accreditation
- The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
- The Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSACS)
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)
Contact
La Salle University
School of Business
1900 West Olney Avenue
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19141
Elizabeth Scofield, MBA Director
Phone: (215) 951-1913
Email: ftmba@lasalle.edu
One year MBA: http://www.lasalle.edu/business/programs/mba/one-year-mba/
Denise Saurennann Director
Phone: (215) 951-1057
Email: mba@lasalle.edu
Post-MBA Certificate: http://www.lasalle.edu/business/programs/mba/post-mba-certificates/
Lehigh University
College of Business and Economics
Lehigh is a nationally-recognized research university that incorporates academic excellence with experiential learning through real-world partnerships. Degree holders are encouraged to continue making meaningful contributions to their communities while passionately pursuing their career goals. Lehigh currently ranks at number 40 for national universities noted in U.S. News & World Report’s 2015 edition of “Best Colleges.” The university’s College of Business and Economics was also ranked 31 out of 132 schools in Bloomberg Businessweek’s 2014 review of business programs.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) with Finance Concentration
The core MBA program can be taken part-time over three years, full-time in one year, or through a combination of on-campus experiences with distance learning instruction. The curriculum consists of 36 credits, with at least 21 coming from core concept areas and the remaining from electives that students may choose to specialize. Core classes include studies in: human resource management, products and services management, organizational behavior, finances and physical resources, and information management systems. Specialization concepts also cover information related to: domestic and international financial management, investment strategies and global marketing practices.
The finance emphasis allows professionals to implement proven management strategies and assess a business’s financial health through its stock market valuations and investment returns. Graduates with an MBA finance specialization will find career possibilities in corporations, global financial institutions and investment firms.
Master of Science in Analytical Finance
For those who enjoy a more theoretical approach to financial work, the M.S. in Analytical Finance provides a strong foundation in advanced financial practices based on quantitative math and engineering principles. Coursework uses state-of-the-art technological tools to analyze and apply financial investment strategies to real-world financial portfolio assessments. Graduates with this degree will find competitive employment in many financial areas including investment banking, risk management, securities trading, portfolio management, and financial information systems.
This program’s 30-credit curriculum relies heavily on upper level math and computer technology skills. It includes an analytical core of studies in calculus, statistics, economics and industrial engineering. The financial core covers upper-level business practices in derivatives, risk management, investments and financial management. A computer course in financial optimization and a capstone project round out the curriculum.
Accreditation
- The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
- The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)
Contact
Lehigh University
Rauch Business Center
621 Taylor Street
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015
Jennifer Giordano, Director
Graduate Recruitment & Admissions
Phone: (610) 758-4450
Email: business@lehigh.edu
MBA with Finance Concentration: https://cbe.lehigh.edu/mba/concentrations
M.S. in Analytical Finance: http://cbe.lehigh.edu/msaf/info
Marywood University
School of Business and Global Innovation
Marywood is a private, Catholic university which has built its programs on the core principles of faith, excellence, empowerment, respect and service. Students enjoy small class sizes and the variety of hands-on learning opportunities that accompany coursework. The school currently ranks number 38 in U.S. News & World Report’s 2015 edition of “Best Colleges” for northern regional universities. Additionally, its business school offers two highly regarded programs for accredited finance degree programs in Pennsylvania.
Master of Business Administration, Finance and Investment Concentration
This MBA focuses on studies that will lead to careers involving commercial and investment banking, treasury operations, and corporate and global financial planning. Students learn cutting-edge financial tools and principles for managing and analyzing acquisitions, divestitures and investment operations. The program is 36 credits which combine fundamental business courses towards a standard MBA with additional classes that emphasize financial practices. Graduates find employment world-wide in profit and non-profit organizations.
M.S. in Financial Management Systems
This 36-credit master’s program is more data driven and includes study of financial planning and management, data storage, taxation, risk management, insurance, economics and information systems. Prior to enrollment, students must pass the Common Professional Component of the MBA program. This degree is geared towards providing students with career advancement opportunities in the finance field.
Accreditation
- The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
- The Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSACS)
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)
Contact
Marywood University
School of Business & Global Innovation
1038 McGowan Center
Scranton, Pennsylvania 18509
Phone: (570) 348-6274
Email: business@marywood.edu |
MBA with Finance/Investment Concentration: http://www.marywood.edu/business/graduate/mba.html
M.S. in Financial Management Systems: http://www.marywood.edu/business/graduate/fis.html
Pennsylvania State University
School of Graduate Professional Studies
Penn State invests in student education through programs that span 24 campuses and reach over 100,000 students, including through its well-known Penn State World Campus which focuses on distance learning. The school garners accolades for educational excellence from organizations like U.S. News & World Report, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance, and the Center for World University Rankings. The school’s Smeal College of Business shares in this success, currently placing at number 41 in U.S. News & World Report’s 2015 standings for “America’s Best Graduate Schools.”
Master of Finance (M.Fin.)
This master’s can be completed in 15 months and is designed for working professionals or students with an interest in financial management or investment careers. Students study advanced financial theories as they apply to practical business situations. They learn to solve problems and make decisions appropriate to financial concerns faced daily by businesses. The degree requires 30 credits and develops financial management skills, expertise in corporate finance and use of of investment principles. Furthermore, it lays a foundation for students interested in pursing certification as a Chartered Finance Analyst. Penn State’s Online Master of Finance program was ranked number four of the “Top 10 Best Online Master of Finance Degree Programs 2014” by our editors.
Accreditation
- The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
- The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)
Contact
The Pennsylvania State University
30 East Swedesford Road
Malvern, Pennsylvania 19355
Karen Duhala, Director of Management Programs
School of Graduate Professional Studies
Phone: (610)648-3229
Email: gvadmiss@psu.edu
Master of Finance: http://bulletins.psu.edu/graduate/programs/F/GRAD%20FINAN
Philadelphia University
Kanbar College of Design, Engineering and Commerce
PhilaU, as it is known, brings the vitality of the city to education. With proximity to historical and modern institutions, students get to experience real-world placements to accompany their academic endeavors. The university offers many outstanding, world-class programs. It ranks number 79 in U.S. News & World Report’s 2015 edition of “Best Colleges” for regional universities in the North. Additionally, graduates with a degree from PhilaU have an impressive 96% employment rate with a high percentage earning at the top of their salary range.
Innovation MBA, iMBA-CFA
According to leading publications like The Wall Street Journal, top business firms are looking for graduates with innovative degrees like the iMBA-CFA. It requires completion of 34 credits, preparing candidates to sit for the Level 1 Chartered Financial Analyst exam. The CFA concentration provides graduates with a powerful too for career advancement. Studies entail: fixed income securities, investment and portfolio management, speculative markets, and international economics. Students may further specialize this degree by focusing on concentrations in marketing, management or a combination of general business options.
Accreditation
- The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
- The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)
Contact
Philadelphia University
School of Business Administration
4201 Henry Avenue
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19144
Phone: (215) 951-2950
D.K. Malhotra, iMBA Program Director
Email: MalhotraD@PhilaU.edu
iMBA-CFA: http://www.philau.edu/mba/ProgramOptions/index.html
Saint Joseph’s University
Haub School of Business
A St. Joseph’s education provides much more than a strong academic foundation. It also prepares graduates for becoming moral and ethical leaders in their communities. The campus is situated on the outskirts of Philadelphia, lending itself to collaborative, learning experiences with businesses, cultural programs and government agencies. It ranks number 11 out of 192 regional universities in the North as rated by U.S. News & World Report for 2015. The school’s graduate business programs stand out as some of the best accredited finance degree programs in Pennsylvania. They have been ranked highly by U.S. News and World Report in recent years for MBA concentrations and specialty programs in finance, marketing, and information systems.
Master of Science in Financial Services
The goal of this program is to provide students with a diverse, financial background flexible enough to meet the demands of high pressure jobs in the field. Lessons combine theoretical financial principles with ethical decision-making skills to solve real-world economic problems. It is one of the few master’s programs in the country to be certified by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards and prepares students to sit for the CFA or CFP exam.
The curriculum covers a wide variety of financial topics, including: portfolio management, international finance, tax planning, pensions and benefits, risk management, financial institutions, mergers and acquisitions, global markets and social responsibility. Depending on prerequisite credits, the degree can be finished in 30 credit hours over 20 months.
Accreditation
- The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
- The Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSACS)
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)
- The Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. (CFP)
Contact
Saint Joseph’s University
Graduate Business Department
David Benglian, Director
5600 City Avenue, MV 333
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19131
Phone: (610) 660-1626
Email: david.benglian@sju.edu
M.S. in Financial Services: http://www.sju.edu/int/academics/hsb/grad/msfs/
Temple University
Fox School of Business and Management
Temple has a long, rich history of providing relevant, cutting-edge instruction that leads to competitive employment. The school believes in nurturing students’ passions about their futures while upholding strong research and experiential opportunities that connect quality academics with real-world practices. Temple houses 17 schools and colleges and is the 27th largest educational institution in the U.S. Its urban setting contributes to a diverse student body and a dynamic atmosphere. In its 2015 rankings, U.S. News & World Report places Temple at number 121 for national universities.
Master of Science in Financial Analysis and Risk Management
Having a degree with a focus in Financial Analysis and Risk Management gives graduates the edge by preparing them to take Chartered Financial Management and Financial Risk Management exams at all levels. The program requires 39 credits and can be finished in 22 months if taken full-time or completed in three years on a part-time schedule. Students assess, analyze and implement strategies to promote financial health in all areas of investing, marketing, and portfolio construction. Coursework also provides strong foundations in leadership principles essential to those working at high levels within the financial industry.
Master of Science in Financial Engineering
Students opting for this master’s will concentrate studies on areas of finance dealing with financial modeling and transaction analysis. Coursework prepares them for taking the RFM exams prior to degree completion. The program is more mathematically and technologically detailed and includes studying: derivative markets, calculus applications for financial analysis, financial technology, econometrics, risk assessments, quantitative portfolios, and quant risk modeling. The degree can be taken full- or part-time and requires approximately 28 credits to complete.
Master of Science in Investment Management
This 29-credit MSIM degree prepares students to take levels I and II of the CFA exam within the time it takes to complete the degree. The focus of study is to learn cutting-edge managerial, ethical, leadership, assessment and analysis skills that employers are seeking in the global financial marketplace. Program requirements can be obtained through full- or part-time schedules that span 10 months to two years.
Accreditation
- The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
- The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)
Contact
Temple University
Fox School of Business
1801 Liacouras Walk
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19122
John Soss, Director
Fox Finance Master Programs
Alter Hall, 433
Phone: (215) 204-8453
Email: jsoss@temple.edu
MSFA-RM: http://www.fox.temple.edu/cms_academics/specialized-masters-program/finance-main/msfa-rm/
MSFE: http://www.fox.temple.edu/cms_academics/specialized-masters-program/finance-main/financial-engineering/
MSIM: http://www.fox.temple.edu/cms_academics/specialized-masters-program/finance-main/msim/
Holding a graduate degree in finance enhances marketability and employment opportunities in the financial industry. Graduates with the right credentials are assured of the potential for high-paying jobs and career advancement. Whether looking to work in the banking industry, in global business sectors, for brokerage firms or as an independent financial analyst, attending accredited finance degree programs in Pennsylvania will supply the right credentials for the job.
