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Master of Science in Finance

Put Your Potential to Work

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START DATE
July

FORMAT
Full-Time; On-campus

DURATION
10 or 16 months

GMAT/GRE
Not required with 3.0+ GPA

Program Snapshot

Master financial theory. Apply it to real markets. The Master of Science in Finance at Minnesota Carlson builds the quantitative skills and professional network you need to advance your career. Gain real-world investment experience, analyze data, and connect directly with the Twin Cities business community.

Invest in your future. Apply today.

You have the ambition. We have the network. Join a community deeply connected to the Twin Cities’ thriving financial sector. Review the dates below and apply by the next deadline to secure your spot.

Application Deadlines:

  • November 1
  • January 15
  • February 15
  • March 15
  • April 15
Start an applicationAttend an information sessionSchedule 1:1 appointment

Knowledge to create business value

The Carlson MS in Finance prepares students to turn complex financial information into business value. 

  • #16 Master in Finance in the United States, 
    QS World University Ranking (2022)

  • 100% of 2019 and 2020 grads received job offers within 180 days of graduation

  • 10 or 16 months to complete
Explore Graduate CertificatesDiscover more grad programs

Explore Carlson's variety of graduate-level offerings to find the right one for you.

Not the program you're looking for?

"Now, nearly every day, I make impactful business decisions by drawing on what I've learned and experienced in the program. I believe the year spent in the Carlson School's MSF program is the most worthwhile investment I have ever done."

- Chia-En Yu, '17 MSF, Mortgage Market Risk Analyst, US Bank

#2 Largest SMIF in the Nation 

With $50 million under management, Carlson School's Funds Enterprise proudly secures the 2nd spot among the Top 25 Largest Student-Managed Investment Fund (SMIFs) nationwide. 
- Center for Investment Research Ranking, 2023 

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Minnesota Carlson Excels Where It Matters Most

"My experience at Minnesota Carlson changed my career path. I built strong connections... and discovered my real academic interests."

Shichu Wang, '24 Master of Science in Finance

Career Outcomes

Graduates leave equipped with the technical expertise and market knowledge to drive immediate value for top financial firms.

  • 91% received employment offers within 6 months of graduation (3-year average)
  • $76,545 average starting base salary (3-year average)
  • #9 Master of Finance among U.S. public universities (QS World University Rankings, 2026)
Headshot of Shichu Wang

Program Outcomes & Benefits

Rigorous Curriculum

Our STEM-designated program combines deep theory with technical application. You will learn the quantitative methods top firms demand.

Real Asset Management

Manage over $50 million in real assets through the Carlson Funds Enterprise. It is the second-largest student-managed investment fund in the nation.

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Powerful Connections

Tap into a dense network of Fortune 500 companies and active alumni in the Twin Cities and beyond.

Graduate student speaks with professionals at a networking event, holding a pen and wearing a name badge.
Graduate students collaborate at a whiteboard, smiling and discussing ideas during a class session.
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START DATE
Program Dependent

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LOCATION
Minneapolis, Minnesota

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FORMAT
Full-Time, Part-Time, Online Options

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Tuition Decrease for Incoming 2026-2027 Students

A master's in finance is an investment in your future. You'll gain skills and knowledge to boost your salary, expand your network, and set yourself up for advancing your career. We know cost is one of the most important factors when choosing where to pursue your degree, and we worked hard to lower costs. Here is our estimated tuition for 2026-2027, which is a decrease from the current 2025-2026 tuition:

  • Resident total tuition: $39,000
  • Non-resident total tuition: $48,750

Note: The 2026-2027 tuition is estimated and will be finalized in July 2026 by the University of Minnesota Board of Regents.

Tuition Decrease for Incoming 2026-2027 Students

A master's in finance is an investment in your future. You'll gain skills and knowledge to boost your salary, expand your network, and set yourself up for advancing your career. We know cost is one of the most important factors when choosing where to pursue your degree, and we worked hard to lower costs. Here is our estimated tuition for 2026-2027, which is a decrease from the current 2025-2026 tuition:

  • Resident total tuition: $39,000
  • Non-resident total tuition: $48,750

Note: The 2026-2027 tuition is estimated and will be finalized in July 2026 by the University of Minnesota Board of Regents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the MS in Finance STEM-designated? 
Yes. The program holds a STEM designation, reflecting its rigorous focus on technical and analytical skills. This designation is highly valued by employers and offers extended optional practical training (OPT) benefits for international students. 

Do I need to take the GMAT or GRE? 
The GMAT and GRE are optional for candidates who hold a 3.0 GPA (B average) or higher. We assess your potential based on your holistic application, not just a test score. 

How long does the program take to complete? 
You can finish the degree in either 10 or 16 months. The 16-month track is designed for students who wish to pursue a summer internship during the program. 

Can I specialize my degree? 
Yes. You can tailor your curriculum to your career goals by choosing from four specializations: Asset Management, Corporate Finance, Healthcare Finance, or Finance Research.