Master of Science in Finance
School of Business Administration
School of Business Administration
It’s time to elevate your career with Oakland University's new Master of Science in Finance program. Tailored for professionals from diverse backgrounds, the program focuses on essential finance skills in a variety of fields, including financial analytics, investment management and corporate finance, which will be perfected in OU's STEM-designated Master of Science in Finance program. You’ll make it happen in the vibrant business hub of Metro Detroit with exclusive access to industry partnerships and networking opportunities with esteemed local and global corporations.
Transform your future and acquire a comprehensive understanding of finance principles to unlock limitless career prospects. Apply now to Oakland University's Master of Science in Finance program.
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Discover Oakland University's Master of Science in Finance program, where financial theory meets real-world application. The program is designed to equip graduates with the practical skills and insights needed to address genuine financial challenges. Through a holistic approach that combines finance and accounting studies, students gain a comprehensive understanding of essential financial decisions, ranging from capital budgeting and cost management, risk analysis and management, and optimization strategies. Crafted in collaboration with industry experts, our forward-thinking curriculum ensures students are adept at navigating these intricacies, empowering them for success in diverse financial roles.
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Graduate Business Programs
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Admission to the Master of Science in Finance Program is selective and depends on several elements. Before an applicant’s file can be reviewed for full program admission, all application documents must be received in Graduate Study and Lifelong Learning by the semester deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be sent to departments for admission review.
Admission to graduate school at Oakland University is selective. In making admission recommendations to Oakland University Graduate School, each department assesses the potential of applicants for success in the program by examining their undergraduate records, goal statement, letters of recommendation, prerequisite courses and any other admission requirements established by the academic department.
Admission Deadlines
To be considered for graduate admission, applicants must submit all Graduate Application Requirements and additional department requirements by the published application deadlines:
- Graduate Application Requirements
- Applicants must meet the general admission requirements for graduate study at Oakland University
- Additional Department Application Requirement
- Curriculum Vitae or Resumé
The GMAT/GRE is not required if you meet any of the following criteria:
- Earned a master’s degree or higher with a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 or have an acceptable score on the GRE, LSAT, or MCAT entrance exam
- Earned a bachelor’s degree with an overall GPA of at least 3.0 from an AACSB-accredited business school
- Earned a bachelor’s degree in any major with an overall GPA of at least 3.2 from a regionally accredited program
- Completed a business-related certification such as CPA, CFA, CFP or FRM
- Have at least 3 years of relevant professional work experience and an undergraduate overall GPA of at least 2.75
- Have completed at least 3 years of service in the US Armed Services
If an applicant does not meet any of the above criteria, it is recommended that they connect with the Graduate Business Programs Office to discuss GMAT preparation and/or other options to be considered for admission.
The application process requires submission of the following:
- Online Application for Admission from the Graduate School
- Curriculum Vitae or Resumé - uploaded after online application is submitted
- One email address for an individual who will write your recommendation - added after online application is submitted
- Official transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended should be sent to OU
International students who have not earned a baccalaureate degree from a U.S. college or university or at least 24 credits from a U.S school will have additional application requirements:
- A transcript evaluation (for transcripts from a college or university outside of the United States)
- TOEFL Exam Scores (for non-native English speakers unless they have a baccalaureate degree from a U.S. college or university or at least 24 credits from a U.S. school)
Applications for Fall semester must be received by April 1st.
The STEM designation of Oakland University’s Master of Science in Finance program highlights the program’s strong focus on analytics, technology and quantitative decision making—skills that are increasingly essential in today’s financial industry.
Modern finance relies heavily on data analytics, statistical modeling, financial technology and computational tools to analyze markets, manage risk and guide strategic decision making. The STEM-designated MSF program at Oakland University is designed to help students develop these high-demand technical and analytical skills while building a strong foundation in core finance concepts.
Graduates are well prepared for careers in high-growth fields such as financial analytics, quantitative finance, risk management, fintech and data-driven investment strategy.
Strong Career Demand
Employers across the financial sector increasingly seek professionals who can combine financial expertise with advanced data and analytical skills. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM occupations are projected to grow approximately 10.4% between 2023 and 2033, compared with 3.6% growth for non-STEM occupations. In addition, STEM occupations offer significantly higher earnings, with median wages exceeding $100,000, more than double the median wage for non-STEM occupations.
Within finance specifically, demand for analytical expertise continues to grow. Employment of financial analysts is projected to increase as firms rely more heavily on data analysis to evaluate investments and manage financial risk. At the same time, employment of data scientists—whose skills closely align with financial analytics—is projected to grow by more than 30% over the next decade, reflecting the growing importance of data-driven decision making across industries.
These trends highlight the growing demand for professionals trained in financial analytics, quantitative finance and data science—skills developed through Oakland University’s STEM-designated MS in Finance program. Additional Benefits for International Students The STEM designation also provides significant advantages for international students studying in the United States.
Most international students studying on an F-1 visa are eligible for 12 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) work authorization after graduation. However, graduates of STEM-designated programs may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, allowing them to work in the United States for up to 36 months in total after graduation.
This extended work authorization provides international graduates with more time to gain valuable professional experience, build relationships with employers and pursue long-term career opportunities in the United States.
Employers also benefit from hiring graduates of STEM-designated programs because they have:
- More time to evaluate employees before sponsoring a visa
- Multiple opportunities for employees to enter the H-1B lottery
- Reduced administrative pressure compared with immediate visa sponsorship
