SUNY Buffalo MS Finance Review

Introduction

The MS in Finance program at the University at Buffalo is a STEM-designated, career-focused finance degree designed to help students build strong analytical and financial skills. Located in Buffalo, New York, this program offers access to major financial hubs like New York City and Toronto, giving students great job and networking opportunities.

Why Choose SUNY Buffalo for a Master’s in Finance?

The SUNY Buffalo MS Finance program is part of the University at Buffalo School of Management, which is ranked among the top business schools in the U.S. The program is known for:

• Strong industry connections with top employers in banking, consulting, and corporate finance
• Affordable tuition compared to other top MS in Finance programs
• A practical, hands-on curriculum that prepares students for high-paying finance jobs

Global Reputation and Rankings of the Program

The University at Buffalo (UB), part of the SUNY system, is a well-respected public research university. Some key rankings:

• Ranked among the top public universities in the U.S.
• The School of Management is recognized for its finance, business analytics, and entrepreneurship programs
• The SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance program is known for its strong return on investment (ROI), offering great career opportunities at a lower cost than many private universities.

Because of its STEM designation, international students in the SUNY Buffalo MS Finance program can work in the U.S. for up to three years after graduation under the OPT extension, making it an attractive option for global students.

Class Profile of SUNY Buffalo MS Finance

The SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance program attracts a diverse group of students from all over the world. The program is designed for recent graduates and early-career professionals who want to develop strong finance and analytical skills.

Class Size, Diversity & Student Demographics

• The program has a moderate class size, allowing students to get personalized attention from faculty.
• Students come from various academic backgrounds, including finance, business, economics, engineering, and mathematics.
• The SUNY Buffalo MS Finance program is internationally diverse, with a high percentage of international students.

Average GMAT/GRE Scores, GPA & Work Experience

• GMAT/GRE Scores: While not mandatory, submitting a competitive GMAT/GRE score can strengthen your application.
• Average GPA: Competitive applicants typically have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
• Work Experience: Work experience is not required, but students with finance-related internships or professional experience have an advantage.

The University at Buffalo MS in Finance program is a great fit for students with strong quantitative skills, whether they have a background in finance or are transitioning from another field.

SUNY Buffalo MS Finance Acceptance Rate & Admissions

Getting into the SUNY Buffalo MS Finance program is competitive but achievable. The admissions team looks for students with strong academic records, quantitative skills, and a passion for finance.

Admission Competitiveness & Acceptance Rate

While the University at Buffalo does not officially publish its MS Finance acceptance rate, it is considered moderately selective. Applicants with:
✅ A solid academic background in finance, business, or quantitative fields
✅ A competitive GMAT/GRE score (if submitted)
✅ Strong recommendation letters and a well-written application essay
are more likely to be admitted.

Application Rounds & Important Deadlines

The SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance deadline varies depending on whether you are a domestic or international student.

📌 Tip: Applying early increases your chances of admission and getting scholarships!

The University of Buffalo SUNY MS Finance deadline is important, especially for international students who need time for visa processing.

SUNY Buffalo MS Finance Program and Curriculum

The SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance program offers a rigorous curriculum that combines theory with real-world financial applications. The program is designed to build strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills that prepare students for careers in investment banking, corporate finance, and risk management.

Core Courses & Specializations

All students in the MS in Finance program at the University at Buffalo take core courses that cover essential finance concepts, including:

• Financial Modeling & Investment Analysis
• Derivatives & Risk Management
• Corporate Financial Strategy
• Fixed Income Securities
• Financial Econometrics & Quantitative Analysis

Students also get the opportunity to customize their degree by choosing electives in areas like:
✅ Investment Management – Focus on portfolio strategies, hedge funds, and capital markets.
✅ Financial Risk Management – Learn about credit risk, market risk, and regulatory frameworks.
✅ Corporate Finance – Dive into mergers & acquisitions, financial planning, and private equity.

The SUNY Buffalo MS Finance program ensures that students gain technical expertise along with the ability to apply financial strategies to real-world business challenges.

Experiential Learning & Extra-Curricular Activities

The University at Buffalo MS Finance program believes in learning by doing, which is why students have access to hands-on projects, case studies, and networking opportunities.

Practical Learning Opportunities

• Finance Lab & Bloomberg Terminals – Students use real-time market data to analyze investments.
• Live Consulting Projects – Work with real companies to solve financial challenges.
• Financial Trading Simulations – Gain hands-on experience in portfolio management and risk assessment.

Finance Clubs, Case Competitions & Networking Events

The SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance program offers various clubs and events that help students build industry connections:

• UB Finance Club – Organizes speaker sessions with Wall Street professionals.
• Investment Banking & Asset Management Club – Helps students prepare for careers in hedge funds and private equity.
• Case Competitions – Students compete in global finance challenges to showcase their skills.
• Networking Events & Alumni Panels – Meet finance professionals and MS Finance alumni to explore job opportunities.

By combining a strong curriculum with experiential learning, the SUNY Buffalo MS Finance program prepares students for high-paying finance careers in banking, consulting, and corporate finance.

SUNY Buffalo MS Finance Fees, Scholarships & Financial Aid

One of the biggest advantages of the SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance program is its affordable tuition compared to other top finance programs in the U.S.

Tuition Structure & Cost of Living in Buffalo

The SUNY Buffalo MS Finance fees are lower than many private universities, making it a great option for students looking for a high ROI (Return on Investment).

Buffalo, NY has a lower cost of living compared to cities like New York or Boston, making it easier for students to manage expenses while studying.

Scholarships & Financial Aid Options

The University at Buffalo MS in Finance program offers several scholarships and financial aid options to help students cover tuition costs:
✅ Merit-Based Scholarships – Awarded to students with strong academic records, GMAT/GRE scores, and leadership experience.
✅ Graduate Assistantships – Some students work as teaching or research assistants, earning a stipend.
✅ Need-Based Aid – Limited financial aid is available for students who demonstrate financial need.
✅ External Scholarships & Loans – Students can apply for private scholarships or education loans from lenders like Prodigy Finance and MPOWER Financing.

Babson is committed to helping students afford their education while preparing for top careers in finance, investment banking, and corporate finance.

SUNY Buffalo MS Finance Deadlines

It’s important to keep track of the University at Buffalo MS in Finance deadlines to make sure your application is submitted on time.

Application Deadlines for Domestic & International Students

The SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance deadline varies based on the application round and student type:

📌 Tip: Applying early increases your chances of getting admitted and receiving scholarships.

Rolling vs. Fixed Admission Timelines

• The University at Buffalo SUNY MS Finance deadline follows a rolling admission process, meaning applications are reviewed as they are submitted.
• Submitting your application earlier can improve your admission and scholarship chances.

Applying to the SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance program early ensures that students have enough time for visa processing, financial aid, and pre-arrival preparations.

SUNY Buffalo MS Finance Employment & Placement

The SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance program has a strong career placement record, with graduates securing jobs in investment banking, corporate finance, fintech, and consulting. The program’s STEM designation also gives international students an edge in the job market by allowing them to work in the U.S. for up to 36 months on OPT.

Employment Statistics & Average University at Buffalo MS Finance Salary

Graduates from the University at Buffalo MS in Finance program have strong job prospects.

Many students also secure internships during the program, which help them land full-time roles after graduation.

Top Recruiters & Hiring Industries

Companies hiring graduates from the SUNY Buffalo MS Finance program include:
🏦 Investment Banks – JPMorgan Chase, Citi, Goldman Sachs
💼 Consulting Firms – Deloitte, PwC, EY
📊 Corporate Finance & FP&A – Amazon, Tesla, Microsoft
💻 Fintech & Startups – Stripe, Robinhood, Revolut

Graduates from the University at Buffalo MS in Finance program work in high-paying finance roles, including:

• Financial Analyst
• Investment Banking Associate
• Risk & Compliance Analyst
• Portfolio Manager
• Corporate Finance Manager

Top Sectors Hiring SUNY Buffalo MS Finance Graduates

The SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance program prepares students for careers in diverse finance sectors. Here are some of the top industries where graduates find jobs:

1. Investment Banking & Asset Management

🔹 Roles: Financial Analyst, Investment Banker, Portfolio Manager
🔹 Companies: JPMorgan Chase, Citi, Bank of America

2. Consulting & Financial Advisory

🔹 Roles: Financial Consultant, Risk Analyst, M&A Consultant
🔹 Companies: Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG

3. Corporate Finance & Fortune 500 Companies

🔹 Roles: FP&A Analyst, Treasury Manager, Finance Controller
🔹 Companies: Amazon, Tesla, Apple, Microsoft

4. Fintech & Startups

🔹 Roles: Financial Data Analyst, Risk Manager, Strategy Consultant
🔹 Companies: Stripe, PayPal, Robinhood, Coinbase

The University at Buffalo MS in Finance program helps students land high-paying jobs across various finance industries, ensuring strong career growth.

SUNY Buffalo MS Finance Alumni Network

The SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance program has a strong alumni network, with graduates working in top financial firms, consulting companies, and Fortune 500 corporations. The University at Buffalo alumni community provides valuable career mentorship, networking opportunities, and job referrals.

Notable Alumni & Career Paths

Graduates from the University at Buffalo MS in Finance program have gone on to work at leading firms like:
🏦 Investment Banks – JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, Citi
📊 Consulting Firms – Deloitte, PwC, EY
💼 Tech & Corporate Finance – Amazon, Tesla, Microsoft

Alumni Network & Mentorship Opportunities

• UB Alumni Association – A global network of 280,000+ alumni across 100+ countries
• Finance Career Panels – Alumni share job search tips and career growth strategies
• Mentorship Programs – Students can connect with finance professionals for guidance
• Alumni-Hosted Networking Events – Exclusive events to meet MS Finance graduates and industry leaders

The University at Buffalo MS in Finance program provides lifelong career support through its alumni network, helping graduates stay connected and advance in their careers.

SUNY Buffalo MS Finance Application Process

Applying to the SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance program requires submitting a strong application that highlights your academic background, quantitative skills, and career goals.

Application Requirements

To apply for the MS in Finance program at the University at Buffalo, you need:
✅ A bachelor’s degree in finance, business, economics, or a related field
✅ Transcripts from all previous schools
✅ GMAT/GRE scores (optional but recommended)
✅ Resume showing academic and extracurricular achievements
✅ Application essays (see details below)
✅ Two letters of recommendation
✅ English proficiency test (TOEFL/IELTS) for international students
✅ Application fee

Application Essays

The SUNY Buffalo MS Finance program requires a personal statement to understand your:

• Finance career goals and how the MS Finance program fits your ambitions
• Why you are interested in the University at Buffalo MS Finance program
• Relevant experiences in finance, business, or quantitative fields

📌 Essay Tips:
✅ Be clear about your finance career goals
✅ Show how the SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance program aligns with your aspirations
✅ Use real-life examples of leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork

Letters of Recommendation

Applicants need two letters of recommendation from:

• Professors (if you’re a recent graduate)
• Managers or supervisors (if you have work experience)

📌 Tip: Choose recommenders who can highlight your finance skills, leadership potential, and analytical abilities.

Interview Process

If selected, you will be invited for an interview with the admissions team (in person or online).

📌 Common SUNY Buffalo MS Finance Interview Questions:

• Why do you want to join the SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance program?
• What are your short-term and long-term career goals?
• Tell us about a time you solved a finance-related problem.
• How will you contribute to the University at Buffalo MS Finance program?

📌 Interview Tips:
✅ Be confident and clear about your goals
✅ Show your passion for finance
✅ Research SUNY Buffalo MS Finance curriculum, faculty, and career services

Applying to the SUNY Buffalo MS Finance program takes careful planning, but a well-prepared application can increase your chances of admission!

Why SUNY Buffalo MS Finance is Unique?

The SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance program stands out because of its affordability, strong industry connections, and STEM designation. Here’s what makes it unique compared to other MS Finance programs:

1. STEM Designation & Career Benefits

The University at Buffalo MS in Finance program is STEM-designated, which provides:
✅ Up to 36 months of OPT for international students, increasing job opportunities in the U.S.
✅ A curriculum focused on quantitative and analytical skills, making graduates highly competitive in finance roles.
✅ High demand for STEM finance professionals in investment banking, fintech, and corporate finance.

2. Industry Connections & Faculty Expertise

The SUNY Buffalo MS Finance program connects students with top finance professionals through:
📌 Networking events with Wall Street executives
📌 Finance career fairs and internship placements
📌 Expert faculty with experience in investment banking, risk management, and fintech

3. Affordability & High ROI

Unlike expensive private universities, the SUNY Buffalo MS Finance fees are affordable, making it one of the best value finance programs in the U.S. Graduates earn competitive salaries, making this a high ROI program.

Useful Resources & Next Steps

If you’re excited about the SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance program, here are some important resources to help with your application and research.

Official Program Link & Application Portal

To learn more about the program, curriculum, and admissions, visit the official University at Buffalo MS Finance website:
🔗 SUNY Buffalo MS Finance Program

Student Forums & Additional Reading

Want to hear from current SUNY Buffalo MS Finance students and alumni? Check out these forums and resources:

• GMAT Club – Read about MS Finance admissions and GMAT tips.
• Reddit (r/FinancialCareers & r/gradadmissions) – Discussions on finance programs and career paths.
• LinkedIn Groups – Connect with University at Buffalo alumni and finance professionals.

What Should You Do Next?

✔ Step 1: Research the SUNY Buffalo MS Finance curriculum, specializations, and job placements.
✔ Step 2: Prepare your application essays, resume, and recommendation letters.
✔ Step 3: Apply early to increase your chances of admission and scholarships.
✔ Step 4: Connect with SUNY Buffalo MS Finance alumni and current students for insights.
✔ Step 5: Get ready for the interview and start planning your finance career!

The SUNY Buffalo MS in Finance program is a top choice for students looking for a STEM-designated, career-focused, and affordable finance degree.