UM-Flint launching Master of Science in Applied Finance for fall 2025

The University of Michigan-Flint's School of Management is expanding its graduate offerings with the introduction of a Master of Science in Applied Finance program for fall 2025.

Designed for professionals looking to advance their careers in finance or transition into the field, the program will provide a practical, skills-based approach to corporate financial management, investment analysis and portfolio management.

To accommodate the needs of working professionals, the program will be offered entirely online in a flexible, asynchronous format. That structure allows students to tailor their learning experience to fit their schedules while gaining advanced expertise in applied finance.

"The program is designed for working professionals who need flexibility without compromising academic rigor," said Christopher Lewis, director of graduate programs. "Our asynchronous format allows students to engage with coursework on their schedule while still benefiting from collaborative discussions, expert faculty guidance and real-world applications of financial principles."

The program offers two specialized concentrations:

Corporate Finance: Focuses on strategic decision-making, financial planning and value creation within corporate settings.
Investment: Equips students with the knowledge to assess investments, build portfolios and advise clients on investment strategies.

The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, which meets the highest standards in business education. Only 5.5% of business schools worldwide hold AACSB accreditation, which ensures students receive a rigorous and industry-relevant education that prepares them for leadership roles in the financial sector.

"Earning an AACSB-accredited degree places students among a distinguished group of business professionals worldwide," said Yener Kandogan, interim SOM dean. "This accreditation ensures that our curriculum meets the highest quality standards in business education, providing students with a competitive edge in the job market and preparing them for leadership roles in finance."

Graduates can pursue career opportunities such as:

Senior financial analyst
Finance manager
Investment analyst
Vice president of finance

"Graduates of the program are well-positioned for senior-level career opportunities in financial management in corporations and investment banking," said Kandogan. "With the growing demand for finance professionals who can navigate complex global financial markets, this degree equips students with the analytical and strategic skills needed to excel in today's competitive financial landscape."

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for financial analysts is $99,890, highlighting the strong career prospects for graduates in this field.

Applications for the MS in Applied Finance are now open. Prospective students must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and meet the program's admission requirements. For more details or to apply, visit go.umflint.edu/msaf or contact the Office of Graduate Programs at [email protected].