Fordham University MS Finance (MSF) | Class Profile, Fees, Admissions & Career Prospects

• STEM-Designated Program: Yes, the MSF program is STEM-designated, providing international students with the opportunity to apply for a 24-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension.
• Class Profile & Diversity: The program enrolls approximately 125 students annually, with a diverse mix of domestic and international students.
• Acceptance Rate & Competitiveness: Admission is competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 45%.
• Career Outcomes & Salary Expectations: Graduates have a strong track record of securing positions in esteemed financial institutions, often reporting competitive starting salaries.
• Top Employers & Industries: Alumni find opportunities across leading financial institutions and various industries.

Introduction

Fordham University's Gabelli School of Business stands out as a premier institution for finance education. Its MSF program is meticulously designed to equip students with advanced financial acumen, blending rigorous academics with real-world insights. Located in New York City, students benefit from proximity to major financial centers, facilitating invaluable networking and experiential learning opportunities.

Fordham MS Finance Class Profile

Student Demographics & Backgrounds

The MSF program attracts a diverse group of students, fostering a rich learning environment. While specific statistics may vary annually, the program typically enrolls around 125 students per year. The student body comprises individuals from various academic backgrounds, including business, finance, accounting, and science. This diversity enhances classroom discussions and peer learning. Fordham University

Student Life & Networking at Fordham MSF

Beyond academics, Fordham emphasizes holistic development through various extracurricular activities.

• Finance Clubs: Students can join organizations like the Fordham Finance Society and the Fordham FinTech Network (FiN), which offer platforms to engage with industry professionals and peers.  Gabelli School of Business
• Networking Events: Regular events, including guest lectures and workshops, provide students with opportunities to connect with industry leaders.
• Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with financial institutions offer students practical exposure and potential career opportunities.

Fordham MS Finance Acceptance Rate & Competitiveness

Admission to the MSF program is competitive, reflecting its high standards and esteemed reputation. The acceptance rate is approximately 45%, indicating a selective admissions process. Prospective students are encouraged to showcase strong academic records, relevant professional experience, and a clear vision for their career in finance. Fordham University

Fordham MS Finance Program & Curriculum

Core Courses & Specialization Tracks

The MSF curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation in finance, complemented by opportunities for specialization.

• Core Courses: Students engage in rigorous coursework covering financial analysis, corporate finance, investment strategies, and risk management.
• Specialization Tracks: Elective courses allow students to focus on areas such as Investment Management, Financial Technology, Risk Analytics, and Corporate Finance.  Gabelli School of Business

Electives & Customization

The program offers flexibility through a range of electives, enabling students to tailor their education to their career goals. This customization ensures that graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of various sectors within the finance industry.

Experiential Learning & Research Centers

Fordham emphasizes practical experience, integrating hands-on projects and real-world applications into the curriculum.

• Experiential Learning: Students participate in consulting projects for corporate clients and on-site informational meetings with Wall Street executives.
• Research Centers: The Gabelli School houses centers like the Center for Research in Contemporary Finance and the Frank J. Petrilli Center for Research in International Finance, providing resources for in-depth financial research. 

Tuition and Fees

Understanding the financial investment required for the MSF program is crucial for prospective students.

• Tuition: As of the 2024-2025 academic year, the tuition fee is $2,103 per credit. Given that the program requires 30 credits, the total tuition amounts to approximately $63,090. 
• Fees: Additional fees include a general fee of $111 per term and a technology fee of $227 per term. New students are also subject to a one-time enrichment fee of $3,602.  

Career Outcomes & Salary Expectations

Graduates of the MSF program have a strong track record of securing positions in esteemed financial institutions. While exact figures can vary, alumni often report competitive starting salaries, with opportunities for advancement as they gain experience.

Top Employers & Industries Hiring Fordham MSF Graduates

Fordham MSF alumni find opportunities across a range of sectors, including investment banking, asset management, corporate finance, and more. The program's strong industry connections and dedicated career services support students in navigating the job market effectively.

Fordham MS Finance Program & Curriculum

Core Courses & Specialization Tracks

The MSF program requires the completion of 30 credits, structured to build a strong foundation in finance. Full-time, on-campus students typically begin in the fall and progress through three semesters. The initial semester focuses on core courses, followed by specialization courses in the spring. Students have the flexibility to complete their electives in the summer or the subsequent fall, allowing for internship opportunities.Fordham University Bulletin

Core Courses cover fundamental topics such as:

• Financial analysis
• Corporate finance
• Investment strategies
• Risk management

After completing core courses, students can choose specialization tracks to align with their career goals. Specialization options include:

• Investment Management: Focusing on portfolio management and asset valuation.
• Financial Technology: Emphasizing the integration of technology in financial services.
• Risk Analytics: Concentrating on identifying and mitigating financial risks.
• Corporate Finance: Centering on financial strategies within corporations.

These specializations allow students to tailor their education to specific interests within the finance sector. Gabelli School of Business

Electives & Customization

Beyond the core curriculum, the MSF program offers a range of electives, enabling students to customize their learning experience. Elective courses delve into advanced topics such as:

• Financial modeling
• Derivatives
• International finance
• Mergers and acquisitions

This flexibility ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the diverse challenges of the finance industry. Gabelli School of Business

Experiential Learning & Research Centers

Fordham's MSF program emphasizes practical experience through various experiential learning opportunities:

• Consulting Projects: Students engage in real-world projects for corporate clients, applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
• Industry Exposure: On-site informational meetings with Wall Street executives provide insights into the finance industry's inner workings.
• High-Tech Trading Lab: Access to a state-of-the-art trading lab equipped with Bloomberg Terminals allows students to develop hands-on skills in financial analysis and trading.

Additionally, the Gabelli School houses research centers such as:

• Center for Research in Contemporary Finance: Focusing on modern financial challenges and innovations.
• Frank J. Petrilli Center for Research in International Finance: Dedicated to the study of global financial markets and systems.

These centers provide resources and support for students pursuing in-depth financial research. Gabelli School of Business

Extra Activities for Fordham MS Finance Students

Beyond the classroom, MSF students have access to a variety of extracurricular activities designed to enhance their professional development:

• Student Finance Groups: Organizations such as the Fordham Finance Society and the Fordham FinTech Network (FiN) offer platforms for networking, professional growth, and engagement with industry trends.Gabelli School of Business
• Speaker Events: Regular events featuring industry leaders provide students with insights into current financial practices and opportunities to connect with professionals.
• CFA Prep Partnerships: The program supports students aiming to obtain the Chartered Financial Analyst designation, offering resources and guidance for exam preparation.

These activities complement the academic curriculum, fostering a well-rounded educational experience.

Fordham MS Finance Fees & Scholarships

Tuition & Cost Breakdown

Understanding the financial commitment is crucial for prospective students. As of the 2024-2025 academic year:

Fordham MS Finance program:

Prospective students should also budget for living expenses in New York City, which can vary based on lifestyle and housing choices.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Fordham University offers various financial support options to help offset the cost of the MSF program:

• Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded to students demonstrating outstanding academic and professional achievements.
• Need-Based Financial Aid: Assistance based on financial need, available to qualifying students.
• Graduate Assistantships: Opportunities that provide both financial support and practical experience in the field.

Approximately 58% of MSF students receive merit-based scholarships, reflecting Fordham's commitment to supporting its students. Gabelli School of Business

Fordham MS Finance Eligibility & Requirements

Who Can Apply?

The MSF program seeks candidates with a solid academic foundation and a passion for finance. While a bachelor's degree in business, finance, accounting, or science is preferred, applicants from diverse academic backgrounds demonstrating a basic understanding of financial markets are encouraged to apply. Prior professional experience in finance is advantageous but not mandatory.

Required Application Components

To complete your application, ensure you have the following:

• Online Application: Accessible through Fordham's graduate admissions portal.
• Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of $130.
• Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all attended institutions.
• Current Résumé: Detailing your professional and academic experiences.
• Letters of Recommendation: One professional letter is required for MBA applicants; for MSF applicants, it's optional but recommended.
• Standardized Test Scores: GMAT or GRE scores are optional for the MSF program.

Fordham MS Finance Deadlines & Application Process

Fall Intake

The MSF program primarily admits students for the fall semester. Key application deadlines are:

• Priority Round: October 11, 2024
• Round 1: January 10, 2025
• Round 2: March 21, 2025
• Round 3: May 2, 2025
• Round 4: June 6, 2025
• Round 5: Rolling admissions

International applicants requiring an F-1 visa are encouraged to apply by Round 2 to ensure sufficient time for visa processing.

Spring and Summer Intakes

While the MSF program primarily enrolls in the fall, some MS programs offer spring and summer intakes. Prospective students should consult the admissions office for specific availability and deadlines.

Fordham MS Finance Career Outcomes & Placement

Average Salary & Job Offers

Graduates of the MSF program have a strong track record of securing positions in esteemed financial institutions. The average starting salary for graduates is approximately $75,000, with opportunities for significant bonuses and career advancement.

Placement Report & Employment Statistics

The program boasts impressive employment outcomes, with a high percentage of graduates employed within three months post-graduation. Top industries include financial services, consulting, and technology.

Top Sectors Hiring Fordham MS Finance Graduates

Companies Recruiting from Fordham MS Finance

Fordham MSF alumni have been recruited by leading financial institutions and corporations, including:

• Goldman Sachs
• JPMorgan Chase
• Morgan Stanley
• BlackRock
• Citi
• Bank of America Merrill Lynch
• Barclays
• HSBC
• Wells Fargo Securities

These organizations value the rigorous training and practical experience that Fordham MSF graduates bring to the table.

Fordham MS Finance Alumni Network

Notable Fordham MSF Alumni

Fordham University boasts a diverse and accomplished alumni network, with graduates excelling in various sectors, including finance. While specific alumni from the MSF program are not widely publicized, the broader Fordham community includes prominent figures such as:

• Eugene Shvidler: A billionaire oil businessman and close associate of Roman Abramovich.
• Mario Gabelli: A renowned investor and philanthropist, after whom the Gabelli School of Business is named.

These individuals exemplify the potential success achievable with a Fordham education.

Fordham MS Finance Application: Essays & Interview

Fordham MSF Essay Requirements

The application process for the MSF program includes a personal statement or essay. While specific prompts may vary, applicants are generally encouraged to address:

• Motivation: Why are you pursuing an MSF at Fordham?
• Career Goals: How will the program help you achieve your professional objectives?
• Personal Qualities: What unique attributes or experiences do you bring to the program?

Crafting a compelling narrative that aligns your background with your aspirations and demonstrates a clear fit with Fordham's values is crucial.

Fordham MSF Letters of Recommendation

Strong letters of recommendation can significantly enhance your application. Consider the following when selecting recommenders:

• Professional Relationship: Choose individuals who know you well professionally or academically.
• Relevance: Recommenders should be able to speak to your skills pertinent to finance and your suitability for the MSF program.
• Specificity: Letters should provide detailed examples of your competencies and character.

Providing your recommenders with your resume and discussing your goals can help them write more personalized and impactful letters.

Fordham MSF Interview & Common Questions

The interview is an opportunity to showcase your interpersonal skills and fit for the program. Common questions may include:

• Why Fordham?: Articulate your reasons for choosing Fordham's MSF program.
• Career Aspirations: Discuss your short-term and long-term goals in finance.
• Team Experiences: Share examples of successful collaborations or leadership roles.

Preparation tips:

• Research: Understand the program's offerings and how they align with your goals.
• Reflect: Be ready to discuss your experiences and what you’ve learned from them.
• Practice: Conduct mock interviews to refine your responses and build confidence.

Demonstrating authenticity and a clear vision can leave a positive impression on the admissions committee.

What Makes Fordham MS Finance Unique?

• STEM-Designated Degree: The MSF program's STEM designation underscores its emphasis on quantitative and analytical skills, providing international students with extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) opportunities in the U.S.
• Strategic NYC Location: Located in New York City, Fordham offers unparalleled access to major financial institutions, facilitating networking, internships, and employment prospects.
• Robust Industry Connections: The Gabelli School maintains strong relationships with leading finance firms, enhancing the educational experience through guest lectures, workshops, and recruitment events.

Choosing Fordham's MSF program means immersing yourself in a rigorous academic environment enriched by practical experiences and industry engagement, all within the world's financial capital.

Conclusion

The Fordham MS Finance program offers a robust curriculum, strategic location, and extensive industry connections, making it an excellent choice for those aiming to advance their careers in finance. Its STEM designation further enhances its appeal, especially for international students seeking extended practical training opportunities in the United States.

Useful Links

• Official Fordham MS Finance Program Page:
• Application Portal
• Fordham Career Placement Reports

For personalized advice and the most current information, prospective students are encouraged to contact Fordham University's admissions office directly.