Master of Science in Finance (MSF) Degree

Master of Finance (MSF) Overview

A master’s degree in finance is consistently rated as one of the best investments you can make in your career. Maximize your returns with Portland State University’s STEM-designated Master of Science in Finance (MSF). You gain tangible technical expertise and position yourself for a bright future in corporate finance, traditional or impact investing, blockchain technology or real estate investment finance.

As a STEM-designated program, our finance master’s degree offers advanced training in the quantitative methods, strategic, risk management, and data visualization tools that drive financial decision making. Located in Oregon's financial hub, Portland State has deep financial industry connections in Oregon and throughout the Pacific Northwest, with a network of over 25,000 alumni worldwide.

Whether you are seeking a career change, career advancement, or exploring career options in finance, PSU’s master of science in finance helps you take your career to the next level. 

WHAT CAN I DO WITH A MASTER OF SCIENCE IN FINANCE (MSF)?

Financial professionals are in high demand, particularly individuals with quantitative, strategic, communication, and leadership skills. Our Master of Science in Finance qualifies you for a broad range of career opportunities in the public and private sectors. Our alumni work at leading companies such as Nike, Providence Health & Services, Cambia Health Solutions, Daimler Trucks North America, Blount, ESC, and Intel. Functional areas include:

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN FINANCE: WHY PSU?

• Applied learning. Our STEM designated master of science in finance uses case-based and experiential learning to develop critical thinking, systems thinking, finance knowledge and business communication skills and knowledge that support making business decisions in corporate finance and investments. You participate in regional and national case competitions, like the ACG Cup NW and the CFA Research Challenge and complete internship experiences. You invest real dollars in our student managed stock fund and invest in startups delivering triple bottom-line results through Impact Ventures.
• Superior faculty. You learn from a diverse faculty with a combination of CFA, MBA, and Ph.D. credentials. Our faculty bring experience from academia as well as the private and public sectors, giving you an educational experience that unites textbook theory with real-world knowledge.
• Dedicated Student Career Center in Oregon’s financial hub. You have access to finance career coaching, mentors, connections to employers, and resources to support your career development whether you are starting a career in finance as a financial analyst or seeking a promotion. Learn more about MSF student employment outcomes.
• Academic excellence. The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute has recognized PSU as a University Affiliate, an elite classification certifying that our master of science in finance curriculum aligns with CFA standards. 
• STEM and quantitative skills. Our master of science in finance earned the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) designation for its quantitative rigor and focus on financial technology. Because PSU’s master of science in finance program holds STEM designation, international students who enroll in the program are eligible for visa extensions.
• Access, diversity, and inclusion. You have the option of enrolling as a part-time or full-time student, completing the master of science in finance on your own schedule. Our finance graduate program welcomes a diverse population that includes military veterans, working professionals, domestic and international students. 

Full Time: 12 Months | Part Time: 24 Months

45 Credits | Fall or Winter Start | Portland, Oregon

APPLYING YOUR KNOWLEDGE

Engage in national case competitions by collaborating with peers, faculty, and industry mentors. Gain hands-on experience through internships or CO-OP opportunities with renowned employers such as Intel, The Standard, and Avamere. Participate in Impact Ventures, where you can invest real funds in a student-managed portfolio, fostering innovation. With a Master of Science in Finance degree, you shape the future of finance through immersive learning experiences and case-based studies that extend beyond conventional financial metrics.

EMBRACING CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY

Acquire the skills needed to address future financial challenges using state-of-the-art, job-ready tools. Our applied courses cover quantitative finance methods and blockchain technology, enhancing your proficiency with tools like Tableau. Access trusted financial information sources such as Bloomberg Terminal and Barron’s in Education. Recognized by the U.S. government with a STEM designation, our program excels in quantitative rigor, sustainability, and financial technology.

DRIVEN BY YOUR SUCCESS

Our program is meticulously crafted to equip you for a rewarding career in corporate finance, investments, or blockchain technology. Develop the ability to comprehend business issues and provide actionable recommendations influencing pivotal decisions. Alumni from our program have secured positions with industry leaders like Nike, Intel, Amazon, Tektronix, and Intel. Join a supportive community of faculty and alumni, ready to mentor you as you progress in your career.