Master of Science in Finance

Do you aspire to work as an investment analyst for a large brokerage firm? Maybe your dream is to manage risk at a financial institution or even a major charitable foundation. Whatever your career goals may be, an advanced finance degree will arm you with the knowledge and skills you need. When you pursue a master’s in finance at Canisius, you open the door to a wealth of business career paths in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors.

The Master of Science in Finance program provides advanced knowledge of general finance in the areas of investments, quantitative analysis, financial institutions, and markets. Grounded in our Jesuit tradition, the program’s holistic approach emphasizes both technical expertise and ethical decision-making. Instructional methods focus on the care and personal growth of each individual finance professional. Classroom projects and activities advance the highest standards of professional conduct as well as communication and teamwork. To meet the demands of today’s emerging business needs and financial markets, students can choose one of four concentrations: investment research, risk management, data analytics, or general finance.

Program Highlights

• A holistic focus that provides technical knowledge within a framework for ethical decision-making
• Four specialty tracks: investment research, risk management, data analytics, general finance
• A state-of-the-art financial markets lab for hands-on training in investment research
• Flexible scheduling—students have options for full-time or part-time study

Distinctions

• AACSB accreditation—a standard achieved by fewer than 5% of business schools worldwide
• Modeled on our undergraduate finance program, which is ranked 18th in the nation by US News & World Report
• 2015 CFA Institute Research Challenge Global Champion team in investment research

Extended Learning Opportunities

• High-profile internships at investment wealth management companies and major banks
• Real-world experience in investment research and portfolio management through the Golden Griffin Fund. Participation may count toward the CFA Institute’s experience requirement for a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.

GARP Partnership

The MS in Finance program is recognized by the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP), an industry-leading professional association, as an academic partner.

"The Master’s in Finance offered by the Richard J. Wehle School of Business is a strong, interdisciplinary program provided by knowledgeable faculty. Its holistic approach affords students a personal educational experience, as well as ensures that its students will be well-positioned to pursue the FRM designation and to assume strategic roles within the global risk management profession."

-William May, Global Head of Certifications and Educational Programs - GARP

STEM Designation- International Students

Certain F-1 Students who receive science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) degrees can apply for a 24-month post-completion OPT extension. This program qualifies as a STEM-designated program. Speak with your admissions counselor to learn more.

Canisius University is a supportive community of people from all walks of life, engaged in conscientious academic, personal, and spiritual inquiry. Griffs learn how to think more deeply, create more boldly, dare more courageously, and live more compassionately, developing the skills and confidence to take the lead in their chosen field, career, and community.

Who We Are

We take the best in every student – and make it that much greater. We believe that greatness is in everyone, and as each individual flourishes, the world benefits. Our rigorous curriculum, vibrant and inclusive campus environment, and professional and community connections create a transformative educational experience that goes deeper than imparting necessary skills and knowledge. Griffs know how to think and how to lead, making them not only well-positioned to succeed in an ever-changing job market but also well-equipped to change the world.

Canisius at a Glance

• Founded: 1870 in Buffalo, NY
• Affiliation: Jesuit
• Students: 2,492
• Accredited schools and colleges: 3
• Majors, minors, and degree programs: 100+
• Student-faculty ratio: 11:1
• Percent of classes taught by faculty: 100%
• NCAA Division-I teams: 20
• Student-run clubs and organizations: 60+
• Alumni: 50,000+ worldwide

What We Stand For

• We are sensitive to the challenges that the world faces. As a university, we have the power to address injustice by expanding access to our transformative education, advancing equity, and producing new knowledge that advances humanity. And when our students graduate, they go on to meaningfully impact the areas that call out to them.
• Our community is respectful, creative, and tightly knit. Here, we cherish and challenge the individual, making space and providing support for everyone to discover their passions, articulate their purpose and become the greatest version of themselves.
• We are determined to make a difference. We understand that doing things the way that they have always been done only perpetuates the status quo and that there is no progress without action. Motivated by a vision of what could and should be, we move forward fearlessly.
• We see and respect every individual as a whole person. Every Griff, whether they’re a faculty member, staff person, or a student, plays a role in every other Griff’s development. When we lift each other up, we all reach even greater heights.