Master of Science in Finance (STEM)

Prepare for a career in financial management, capital markets, banking, corporate treasury, or investment management with Duquesne University's Master of Science in Finance (MSF). Through a hands-on curriculum that includes a capstone consulting project and opportunities to participate in managing the Investment Strategy Institute student-run micro-cap investment fund, you'll develop advanced skills in financial analysis, valuation, and investment decision-making through real-world application.

The MSF is 33-credit program with up to 3 credits of accounting prerequisites potentially waivable. After completing or waiving prerequisites, the MSF comprises a 15-credit core curriculum plus 15 elective credits, all of which can be completed in six semesters or less. Students may also apply for financial assistance to pursue the CFA or SIE exams through departmental and donor-supported funds.

Flexible Program

Earn your MSF where and when you choose. The program can be completed with a mix of hybrid and online classes or fully online. Note: fully online students will have to Zoom-in occasionally.

Apply Request Info

Program Information

This hands-on program will help you develop advanced skills in financial analysis and valuation for decision making in all aspects of business investment, financing, and operating activities.

Program Type

Major

Degree

Master's

School

Palumbo-Donahue School of Business

Duration

5-6 Semesters

Required Credit Hours

33

Modality

Online
Hybrid
Hyflex

More in this Program

Hear from Our Alumni

Photo of Tracie McCormick.

I did like that in-person feel, but I also like the online classes. Because of how the professors taught, I never felt like I was alone. The faculty and students are accessible.”

Tracie McCormick, MS'26 Treasurer, Pittsburgh International Airport
Hear From Tracie
Youssouf Diallo

Duquesne's M.S. in Finance program stands at the forefront of innovation, seamlessly blending AI with advanced financial learning. This program is a must-consider for those eager to harness the transformative power of finance and technology.”

Youssouf Diallo, MS'26 Structured Finance Specialist, Corporate Trust Division, BNY

Curriculum

View the Course Descriptions
The Master of Science in Finance (MSF) is 33-credit program with up to 3 credits of accounting prerequisites potentially waivable. After completing or waiving prerequisites, the MSF comprises a 15-credit core curriculum plus 15 elective credits, all of which can be completed in six semesters or less.
  • ACCT 515—Accounting for Decision Makers (3 credits)*
  • ACCT 615—Financial Statement Analysis (3 credits)
  • FINC 530—Finance for Managers (3 credits)
  • FINC 613—Corporate Finance (3 credits)
  • FINC 617—Financial Markets and Institutions (3 credits)
  • FINC 650—Capstone Project in Finance (3 credits)

*ACCT 515 may be waived if Intermediate Financial Accounting (or an equivalent course) has been completed in the past 5 years with a grade of B- or better.
  • ECON 520—Economic Analysis for Business (3 credits)
  • ENTR 603—Entrepreneurship, Venture Financing and the Law (3 credits)
  • FINC 627—Fixed Income Securities (3 credits)
  • FINC 632—Credit Management (3 credits)
  • FINC 634—Equity Investments (3 credits)
  • FINC 635—Advanced Financial Problems (3 credits)

Accreditation

The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) awarded Duquesne's undergraduate and graduate Schools of Business its full accreditation. The AACSB accreditation is recognized as a global mark of distinction. Less than 6 percent of the world's more than 1,200 business schools have passed the rigorous review necessary to earn the honor.

Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) Accredited Logo

Learning Outcomes

Critical Financial Decision-Making
Learners will demonstrate the technical and analytical skills in financial analysis and valuation necessary for effective decision-making pertaining to investment, financing, and operating activities of a business. 

  • Analyze financial data and apply relevant financial theories and tools to conduct comprehensive financial analysis and make effective financial decisions.
  • Strategically evaluate complex financial situations to set goals and develop integrative financial plans that drive sustainable organizational growth.  

Communication
Learners will demonstrate advanced communication skills, enriched by cultural intelligence, necessary for successful careers in financial management, capital markets, banking, corporate treasury, investment management, and related fields. 

  • Communicate the findings, relevance, and potential impact of their analyses to support and influence decisions and strategic change in the organization.
  • Engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, fostering inclusive environments and understanding global financial practices. 

Ethical Mindset
Learners will recognize ethical dilemmas in an organizational context and apply ethical decision-making frameworks to business decisions.  
  • Evaluate ethical dilemmas in financial decision-making and apply ethical principles to ensure integrity and accountability in financial practices.
  • Assess the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impacts of financial decisions, applying socially responsible investing principles to promote business practices that foster long-term organizational success.