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Curriculum

Curriculum

The Master of Science in Finance (MSF) at the University of Washington Foster School of Business is a STEM-designated, full-time graduate program designed to build a strong foundation in finance while integrating data analysis, artificial intelligence, and applied decision-making.

Students develop expertise across core areas of finance, including financial modeling, investments, and corporate finance, while gaining exposure to emerging topics such as fintech, AI in finance, analytics, and global financial markets.

The curriculum combines technical rigor with applied learning to prepare students to translate financial data into strategic insight and real-world business impact.


Program Overview

The MSF curriculum is designed to support early-career professionals seeking to build quantitative finance skills and prepare for analyst-level roles.

Students progress through a structured sequence of coursework that builds both technical depth and practical application. Coursework emphasizes financial analysis, data interpretation, and decision-making in modern business environments.

Program at a Glance

  • Degree: Master of Science in Finance
  • Credits: 46
  • Duration: 10 months
  • Schedule: Daytime, weekday classes
  • Courseload: Full-time, in-person
  • Location: UW campus in Seattle
  • STEM Designation: Yes

Who the MSF Program Is Designed For

The Master of Science in Finance is designed for early-career candidates seeking to build a strong foundation in finance and prepare for analyst-level roles.

Students typically include:

  • Recent graduates in finance, economics, or business disciplines
  • Graduates from quantitative fields such as mathematics, engineering, or data-related majors
  • Individuals seeking to develop financial analysis and modeling skills for careers in finance, consulting, or technology

The program is best suited for candidates who want to strengthen quantitative skills, gain applied finance experience, and launch a career in finance or finance-adjacent roles.

What You’ll Study

The Master of Science in Finance curriculum combines core finance disciplines with applied, technology-integrated learning designed to prepare students for modern financial careers.

You’ll build expertise across foundational and advanced areas, including:

  • Corporate Finance
  • Investments and Asset Management
  • Financial Modeling and Valuation
  • Data Analytics in Finance
  • Financial Markets and Institutions
  • Global and International Finance
  • Risk Management
  • Fintech and Emerging Financial Technologies

In addition to core coursework, students have opportunities to explore areas such as AI in finance, fintech innovation, cryptocurrency, real estate, and investment strategy, paired with applied learning experiences that extend beyond theory into real-world financial analysis and decision-making.

View full list of core courses
View full list of electives


Career Preparation and Outcomes

The MSF curriculum is designed to prepare students for analyst-level roles across finance, technology, and corporate environments.

Through a combination of technical coursework and applied experience, students build skills in financial analysis, data interpretation, and strategic thinking that are in demand across industries.

Read more about career preparation

Applied Learning in Seattle’s Business and Financial Ecosystem

The MSF curriculum emphasizes applied learning through real-world finance challenges, helping students build confidence in financial modeling, valuation, and data-informed decision-making. Students develop practical skills by working through scenarios that reflect how financial professionals analyze investments, assess risk, and support strategic business decisions.

Located in Seattle, the program draws on its proximity to a global hub for technology, corporate finance, and innovation. This environment provides exposure to companies and industries where finance, data, and strategy intersect, reflecting the realities of modern financial roles and the region’s strong ecosystem of technology firms, corporate employers, and financial organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the MSF program technical or quantitative?
The MSF includes quantitative coursework in financial modeling, analytics, and data analysis. Students build technical skills that support modern finance roles while developing a strong foundation in core finance concepts.

Do I need a finance background to apply?
A background in finance or a quantitative field such as economics, mathematics, or engineering is helpful. Applicants from other disciplines may be considered if they demonstrate quantitative readiness.

What types of careers does the MSF prepare students for?Is the program STEM-designated?
Yes, the MSF is a STEM-designated graduate program.

Explore the Full MSF Curriculum

For detailed course descriptions and sequencing by quarter, view the full curriculum.

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