2023-24 Edition

Master of Finance

Master of Finance
Phone: 949-824-9859
Email: mfin@merage.uci.edu

The Master of Finance program provides extensive and practical training for quantitative and analytical jobs in the field of finance. The program prepares graduates for entry- and mid-level positions in the field of finance, and opportunities to specialize in areas such as corporate finance, investments management, wealth management, and real estate. The program is a one-year, self-supporting terminal master’s degree, which includes opportunities for extra-curricular internships or practicums.

Students build a strong understanding of modern finance, as well as the quantitative and analytical skills needed to address complex problems found in the field of finance today. Graduates will be prepared for positions in such finance fields as risk management, asset and wealth management, real estate management, and forecasting. Longer term career paths could include chief finance officer, risk managers, chief risk officer, and portfolio managers at banks, asset management companies, and investment funds.

Further information may be obtained by contacting the University of California Irvine, Master of Finance Program Office, The Paul Merage School of Business, SB1 4500, Irvine, CA 92697: 949-824-9859 or visit the Master of Finance website

Applicants may apply directly to the Paul Merage School of Business. Applicants must meet all the prerequisites requirements at the time of matriculation into the program. Admission to graduate-level standing in the Paul Merage School of Business is accorded to those possessing an undergraduate degree with an acceptable level of scholarship from an institution of recognized standing. A quantitative background in subjects such as calculus and intermediate statistics and probability is encouraged, and undergraduate degrees in sciences, engineering, mathematics, economics, and business programs are recommended.

Applicants for admission will be evaluated on their academic record and potential for leadership, as demonstrated by the materials submitted in the application. These materials must include official university transcripts, two letters of recommendation, two essays, a resume, and a personal interview (by invitation only). The GMAT or GRE are not required but strongly recommended for applicants with GPA’s under a 3.3. While these tests are not required, the admissions team is looking for evidence of strong verbal and quantitative skills. If the potential applicant received their undergraduate degree from a foreign country and their primary language is not English, then they will be responsible to take the TOEFL exam with a minimum score of 80 on the internet-based test. A Pearson Test of English (PTE) may be substituted for the TOEFL. The minimum score for the PTE is 53. Scores are valid for two years. 

The program consists of seven required courses (24 units) and seven electives (28 units), for a total of 52 units to be completed in 12 months. The required courses are as follows:

A. Complete the following:
FIN 203A Financial Reporting for Management
FIN 240 Financial Research Methodology
FIN 210 Foundations of Finance
FIN 241 Risk Management
FIN 249 Derivatives
FIN 296 Master of Finance Capstone
FIN 211 Master of Finance ProSeminar 1
B. Select seven electives from FIN and/or other Merage graduate programs elective course offerings.