SECURE YOUR FUTURE IN FINANCE

In a world where the international business and finance sectors are thriving, you can take the first steps towards a myriad of sought-after positions in the finance industry with the Master of Science in Applied Finance (MSAF) program at the GW School of Business (GWSB). The year-long program is designed to produce leaders in the global world of finance. As a participant of the MSAF, you will learn risk management, financial engineering, banking, corporate finance, and portfolio analysis and management in order to cement your professional standing in the field.

The GWSB MSAF program is designed to combine quantitative and computer skills with financial theory and applications. Through the program, you will establish your financial astuteness and be able to craft a successful career in the world of finance. You will gain the skills to grow and succeed in multiple areas in the finance industry such as banking, fund management, financial consultancy, and more.

The GWSB MS in Applied Finance degree program attracts both US and international candidates from diverse professional backgrounds promoting endless global networking possibilities. The unique structure of the program promotes employment in a variety of prestigious financial institutions in the United States and abroad.

GWSB MSAF qualifies as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) designated program for Optional Practical Training (OPT) purposes, which offers the potential for international students to work in the US for a total of 3 years before transitioning to a work visa (H1-B, etc.)

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In a world where the international business and finance sectors are thriving, you can take the first steps towards a myriad of sought-after positions in the finance industry with the Master of Science in Applied Finance (MSAF) program at the GW School of Business (GWSB). The year-long program is designed to produce leaders in the global world of finance. As a participant of the MSAF, you will learn risk management, financial engineering, banking, corporate finance, and portfolio analysis and management in order to cement your professional standing in the field.

The GWSB MSAF program is designed to combine quantitative and computer skills with financial theory and applications. Through the program, you will establish your financial astuteness and be able to craft a successful career in the world of finance. You will gain the skills to grow and succeed in multiple areas in the finance industry such as banking, fund management, financial consultancy, and more.

APPLY NOW
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE
VISIT GWSB

The GWSB MS in Applied Finance degree program attracts both US and international candidates from diverse professional backgrounds promoting endless global networking possibilities. The unique structure of the program promotes employment in a variety of prestigious financial institutions in the United States and abroad.

GWSB MSAF qualifies as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) designated program for Optional Practical Training (OPT) purposes, which offers the potential for international students to work in the US for a total of 3 years before transitioning to a work visa (H1-B, etc.)

GEORGE WASHINGTON SCHOOL OF BUSINESS

The George Washington University School of Business

The George Washington University School of Business (GWSB) is committed to cutting-edge research and providing students with the best business education available today. GWSB is a renowned institution with a distinguished faculty that makes significant, frequently groundbreaking contributions to drive business change and public policy. Their thought leadership helps to shape our innovative curriculum, providing GWSB students with the tools they need to successfully compete in today’s global and dynamic business environment.

Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., where business and policy intersect, the GW School of Business affords students unmatched access to unique learning experiences and internship opportunities.

  • Industry-leading faculty facilitate learning through interactive discussions, research, and presentations.
  • Learn finance through the practical application of concepts which develops broad-based decision-making capabilities that are critical to your career success and are immediately applicable to the workplace.

RANKINGS

#1

International Business Among U.S. Institutions

(FT Global MBA Rankings 2021)

#2

Master in Finance Among U.S. Institutions

(FT Masters in Finance Rankings 2021)

#2

International Business Worldwide

(FT Global MBA Rankings 2021)

#2

Best Business Schools – Diversity

(Bloomberg Businessweek 2021-22)

CURRICULUM

CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Applied Finance program offered by the GW School of Business is your stepping stone towards a fulfilling career in finance. The in-depth curriculum will help you extend your comprehension of the subject and build your professional understanding to put you on the right track. You will delve deep into a curriculum that has been designed to combine quantitative and computer skills with financial theory and applications to broaden your financial career horizon. 

 

With the MSAF, you will gain a skill set that employers today find invaluable, including:

  • Leadership skills that set you apart in the finance industry.
  • Strategic problem-solving skills to enable you to address and tackle a myriad of challenges that might come your way.
  • A deep understanding of advanced methods for analyzing financial data in order to work at a global level. 
  • Intricately developed skills to execute strategic financial plans.

With its world class faculty, staff, and rigorous curriculum, the MSF program truly provides a challenging environment allowing top notch students from diverse backgrounds to optimize their learning experience. Striking a practical balance, from quantitative methods and finance theory to business law and programming, overcoming any real world challenge is possible. After the MSF, your enviable skills will be quickly recognized enabling you to rise through the ranks to leadership positions.

John Maalouf
Multifamily Underwriter, Freddie Mac

GWU’s MSF program expanded my horizons in finance. I was able to hone quantitative analytical skills, master the fundamentals of financial theories, and understand the constraints and limits of financial models and circumstances under which they are applicable. These qualifications have proven to be critical for financial professionals as the current financial crisis unfolds. I am glad to see how freely I leverage those analytical skills in portfolio risk management in daily work.

Shenghua Si
Quantitative Risk & Analytics, The World Bank Treasury

FINA 6271 - Financial Modeling and Econometrics

Applied statistical and econometric analysis and modeling in finance. Methodologies include descriptive and inferential statistics, multivariate regression, and time series analysis. Empirical studies are reviewed, and a series of research projects are undertaken.

FINA 6272 - Global Financial Markets

Theories explaining domestic and international interest rate and exchange rate structures. Roles of financial institutions and markets are investigated and forecasting methodologies are applied. Prerequisites: Master of Science in Finance degree candidacy.

FINA 6273 - Cases in Financial Management and Investment Banking

Computer modeling for analysis and forecasting of a firm’s financial statements to reflect possible future performance. Application and integration of financial accounting and financial analysis, using a different case study each week. Financial issues faced by companies and their commercial and investment bankers as tactical and strategic decisions are made about organic growth, growth through merger and acquisition, and corporate reorganization. Prerequisites: Master of Science in Finance degree candidacy.

FINA 6275 - Investment Analysis and Global Portfolio Management

Financial markets and instruments viewed from the investor’s perspective. Analysis of the value of equity and fixed-income securities and the construction of efficient portfolios in a global financial market. Issues of market efficiency, tax structures, and investment funds; computer-based models.

FINA 6276 - Financial Engineering and Derivative Securities

Mathematical and theoretical foundations to value-derivative securities, including options, futures, and swaps; hedging and trading applications of these contracts. Arbitrage trading across cash and derivative markets and its role in maintaining equilibrium prices.

FINA 6279 - Real Estate Finance and Fixed-Income Security Valuation

Application of financial theory to real estate investment: the housing market, mortgage valuation and securitization, commercial properties, CMBS, and REITs. Fixed-income security valuation with focus on theory and data applications on interest rate movements, fixed-income security and derivative pricing, and credit risk. Prerequisites: Master of Science in Finance degree candidacy.

FINA 6280 - Financial Institution Management and Modeling

Analysis of the financial performance and condition of a bank, toward understanding of the financial environment in which banks operate and regulation of the banking system. Application of asset/liability management principles and statistical and mathematical models employed in bank risk management. Prerequisites: Master of Science in Finance degree candidacy.

FINA 6281 - Cases in Financial Modeling and Engineering

Through the use of real-world examples from various aspects of finance, students are exposed to the modeling of complex financial instruments and techniques used in market and credit risk management. Underlying mathematics and theoretical constructs are explored and solidified through modeling exercises that make use of analytical solutions and numerical methods. As a practical course, students are asked to implement models. Examples may be motivated by corporate finance, corporate and investment banking, asset management, or other activities. Prerequisites: Master of Science in Finance degree candidacy.

FINA 6282 - Advanced Financial Econometrics and Modeling

Additional Program Requirements

Students must achieve at least a 3.0 cumulative grade point average at the time of graduation.

TIMELINES

TIMELINES

Students will complete the MSAF degree that takes place during the fall, spring and a mandatory summer semester, in two cohorts through 12-months. 

This structure allows you to leverage your learning experience. You will receive all the required paperwork and documentation to enable you to get your study visa. You will apply for the F-1 visa at the suggested US Embassy or Consulate (as the case may be) and receive your visa approval to travel to the US and join GWU on campus.

OPTIONAL PRACTICAL TRAINING – US OPT

  • You will be eligible to participate in the US OPT (Optional Practical Training) program for F-1 students upon the completion of your MSAF degree, allowing you to stay in the US while you start your career in finance.
  • Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment in the US that is directly related to an F-1 student’s major area of study. Eligible students can apply to receive up to 12 months of OPT employment authorization before completing their academic studies (pre-completion) and/or after completing their academic studies (post-completion). Find more information about OPT.
  • The GWSB MS in Applied Finance is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) designated program for Optional Practical Training (OPT) purposes. This allows the graduates of the program to apply for an additional 24 months of extension of OPT. Ultimately, it offers the potential for international students to work in the US for a total of 3 years before transitioning to a work visa (H1-B, etc.)
ADMISSION

ADMISSION

Admission to the MSAF program is highly competitive. Due to the rolling admissions policy, it is highly recommended that candidates submit applications early. Decisions are based on the individual’s previous academic accomplishments, test scores, work experience, personal statement, resume, demonstrated potential for graduate and professional success, and references.

Prerequisites

A Bachelor’s degree with credit hours in:

  • Advanced Mathematics (6 credits; 3 credits must be Calculus)
  • Microeconomics (3 credits)
  • Macroeconomics (3 credits)
  • Financial Accounting (3 credits)
  • Managerial Finance (3 credits)
  • Statistics (3 credits)

Additional coursework, degrees, and/or work experience in these five areas are considered favorably in the selection process.

Application Requirements

  • Completed online application form
  • Application fee – USD 80 (non-refundable)
  • Current resume uploaded through the online application system
  • Two letters of recommendation from professional and/or academic references
  • Statement of Purpose: In no more than 500 words, describe how this program fits into your professional life and your career objectives.
  • Applicants will be informed if an interview by a GWSB admissions officer is required before a final decision of admission to the degree programs.

International Applicants

International applicants must submit one of the following: an official TOEFL score of at least 80 (internet-based test) or 550 (paper-based test), an official IELTS score of 6.0 with no individual band score below 5.0, a PTE Academic Score of at least 53, or an official Duolingo English Test (DET) score of at least 105. Test date must be within the past two years. TOEFL code: 5246

Please note that, if you achieve the following scores, you are also exempt from taking EAP courses: an official TOEFL score of at least 100 (internet-based test) or 600 (paper-based test), an official IELTS score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0, a PTE Academic Score of at least 68, or a DET score of at least 120. Test date must be within the past two years.

Exceptions to this requirement:

  • You have earned a bachelor, master, or doctoral degree from an institution in which English is the language of instruction and the official language of the country in which the university is located. In addition to the United States, applicants from the following countries are exempt from this requirement.
  • You have earned a bachelor, master, or doctoral degree from an institution that is accredited by a U.S. regional accrediting agency.

If you have questions about the application process or eligibility, please do get in touch with us.

Connect with a program advisor

Additional Application Requirements

  • Upload copies of your transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, whether or not the program was completed or the credit appears as a transfer credit on another transcript. Note that admitted students will be required to submit official, sealed transcripts with proof of bachelor’s degree. There is no need to submit them at the time when you first apply.
  • GMAT Score or GRE Score (optional): If you feel that submitting your scores will strengthen your application, you are welcome to submit them. Test date must be within past five years. GMAT code: QK4-4F-40; GRE code: 5246. Not eligible for a test waiver? GW School of Business applicants can benefit from 10% off any Kaplan GMAT or GRE preparation course. Use discount code GWUSB10.
APPLY NOW

KEY DATES

Deadline:
Application Fees: USD 80
  • Considering the limited seats in the program and first-come, first-served admission process, it is always more beneficial for candidates to apply as soon as possible.
  • Application fee is refunded only in the case an applicant is not offered admission to the program.
TUITION FEES

TUITION FEES

FEES
Tuition, per credit for MSAF* USD 2,025
Total fees for 36 credits*
Application fees USD 80

Additional fees will apply.

*Tuition fees are subject to change

The MSAF program is a full-time, 36 credit-hour program. Students with very strong backgrounds in a particular subject area can petition to waive a required course, replacing it with an elective as approved by the program director.

In addition to their tuition, students will also be responsible for other costs, which may include, among others: living expenses, transportation and incidental expenses.

Student Health Insurance 
GW offers voluntary comprehensive health insurance through Aetna Student Health. All F-1 and J-1 international students are automatically enrolled. See the Student Health Insurance page for rates and other important information.

Housing 
View information about on-campus and off-campus housing for full-time GW graduate students.

FINANCIAL RESOURCES

From scholarships and fellowships to loans and work-study arrangements, we offer a wealth of resources to help you finance your degree.

GWSB Fellowships and Financial Support

The GW School of Business offers merit-based fellowships to incoming students at the time of admission. While applying to graduate degree programs at GWSB, prospective students may opt in to be automatically considered for all fellowship award opportunities funded by the School of Business, as well as various University-funded tuition awards administered by the Office of Graduate Student Assistantships and Fellowships (OGSAF). Unless otherwise stated, no separate application is required.

In limited circumstances, current students may also be eligible for merit-based tuition fellowship awards.

For more information, explore the GWSB Fellowships and Financial Support page.

Office of Graduate Student Assistantships and Fellowships

The Office of Graduate Student Assistantships and Fellowships (OGSAF) maintains a comprehensive database of GW and external fellowships to support graduate-level study and/or research. Incoming and current students are encouraged to browse the OGSAF website for information about additional merit-based funding opportunities.

Student Employment and Internships

The F. David Fowler Career Center supports GWSB student and alumni professional development by providing career management resources, career fairs and expos, and employer information sessions. GWSB students also have access to employment services and resources provided through GW’s Center for Career Services.

Handshake is the official online recruiting platform and event calendar for the F. David Fowler Career Center and the Center for Career Services. To search for jobs and internships, find and register for events, and connect with career coaches, log in to Handshake.

Federal Work Study

The Federal Work Study Program is a federally-funded and need-based work program that allows GW students to earn income through part-time employment during the academic year at GW and other pre-approved organizations. Graduate students interested in the program must submit the FAFSA and apply through the Office of Student Financial Assistance.

The Center for Career Services provides awarded students assistance with finding positions. Visit the Center for Career Services for information about the Federal Work Study Program at GW.

International Students

Students studying at GW on F-1 or J-1 visas may have additional restrictions on their employment due to visa regulations. F-1 Students are required to obtain Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization from the International Services Office for all paid, off-campus internships and employment. GW-sponsored J-1 Exchange Visitors are required to obtain employment authorization for all employment, whether on-campus or off-campus.

For more information about the CPT application process, see GWSB Global & Experiential Education’s Curricular Practical Training page.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

The finance industry is a thriving and increasingly popular industry for those looking for rewarding careers. With a range of employers such as commercial banks, brokerage firms, hedge funds, private equity firms, insurance companies, asset managers, investment banks, consulting companies, fintech companies, and many more, the finance industry can provide some of the most fulfilling, gratifying and lucrative careers.

In order to facilitate employment for program graduates, GWU is actively engaged in collaboration with a variety of financial institutions through faculty, alumni and administration.

  • database of resumesMaintaining a database of resumes made available to potential employers.
  • list companies and institutionsSetting up interviews with A-list companies and institutions.
  • workshopsOrganizing career workshops to prepare students in their job search and interviews, and collaborating with the F. David Fowler Career Center.
  • interview skillsCreating and curating industry-leading resources to help research careers, develop a resume or practice interview skills.
  • specialized masters resourcesProviding targeted MBA resources, specialized master’s resources and the On-Campus Interviewing (OCI) Program that allows graduate students to interview on GW’s campus for job opportunities.
  • career networkProviding a career network and recruiting platform for all GWSB students and alumni – Handshake. This app allows you to not only search for jobs and internships, but also sign up for events, access the on-campus recruiting program and book an appointment with a career coach.
  • job openingPosting job openings so that you have access to the most sought-after jobs in the industry.
  • finance industryNetworking with corporates to create a demand for MSAF graduates in the global finance industry.

The skills that I developed in the MSF program are essential in my new position. I am grateful for the rigorous program, which allows me to have a competitive edge in the financial community.

Cliff Booth
Managing Director, Janney Montgomery Scott

The George Washington University’s MSF program, besides its convenient location, provided me with broad based and cutting edge skills in many areas of Finance and Banking, to complement my economic background and many years of professional experience.

Salomon Samen, Ph.D
Sr. Economist, The World Bank

If you lean towards numbers and are excited about the potential of the finance industry, here are some relevant data points that will allow you to envision your future in finance;

  • Post-GME (graduate management education) industry as well as job function of interest are the highest for Finance and Accounting at 86% and 81% respectively. 
  • 92% of financial services industry leaders are confident of company growth in the coming years. 
  • The MSAF leads to lucrative and fulfilling career options. The average base salary per annum for a financial analyst is $72,450, a management analyst is $78,307 and an actuary is $116,380. 

The finance industry offers some of the most rewarding careers. Employers include commercial banks, brokerage firms, hedge funds, private equity firms, insurance companies, asset managers, investment banks, consulting companies, fintech companies, and many more.

Source: GMAC Post-GME Career Aspirations: Prospective Students Survey 2022,  KPMG 2021, Indeed 2022

DAVID FOWLER CAREER CENTER

The David Fowler Career Center’s mission is to support GW School of Business (GWSB) students and alumni in developing lifelong career management skills and building partnerships among students, alumni, employers and faculty, resulting in rewarding and fulfilling careers.

We will help you plan your career path with a strategy centered around seven essential job search steps designed to build on one another, leading you down an organized path to career success. They include:

Self-Assessment and Visioning

Self-Assessment and Visioning

Take the Career Leader Assessment to help identify or confirm your preferences, whether that may be your passion, the best job function and organizational culture for you or the business-related skills, interests, and motivators specific to you and your career.

Research

Research

Research organizations and get access to a wide array of company rankings and industry guides with the Vault Guides and explore your interests with your career consultant.

Resume & Cover Writing

Resume & Cover Writing

Use VMock to write a concise, engaging resume and a well-crafted cover letter that can help you stand out from the crowd and score interviews. Establish how to present your unique story with the help of a career consultant.

Personal Brand & Reputation Building

Personal Brand & Reputation Building

First impressions are critical. Let a Fowler career consultant help you Develop and refine your introduction/elevator pitch and a compelling answer to the interview questions with the help of a Fowler career consultant. Start building your professional profile on LinkedIn and other platforms.

Network Development & Networking

Network Development & Networking

Develop a strategy to build your network, meet alumni, and maximize informational interviews and LinkedIn opportunities, all under the guidance of your career consultant.

Interview Preparation

Interview Preparation

Work through potential interview questions and learn more about the importance of body language and pre- and post-interview protocols with mock interviews with your career consultant.

Managing the Offer Process

Managing the Offer Process

Learn how to navigate questions about salary negotiations and start dates and understand whether or not to accept an offer.

Where GW Students Have Landed

Amazon Bank-of-America Chevran Congnizant CVS Pharmacy Danaher Dell Deloitte
Delta Discovery Hershey IBM Lilly Marriott Microsoft PWC

*All product and company names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them.

PROGRAM EXPERIENCE

PROGRAM EXPERIENCE

The George Washington University’s Master of Science program provides a substantial foundation in finance, econometrics and international business for those persons seeking to build their careers in the finance profession. Seasoned, highly accessible faculty with current private & public sector experience provide intensive treatment of quantitative and qualitative methods particularly in the analysis of financial institutions, corporate finance and accounting, and fixed income and derivative products. The skill sets that can be developed by motivated, persevering students are of immediate relevance to professional settings.

Martin C. Mitsoff
VP, Research & Strategy, Legg Mason Wood Walker, Inc.

The Master of Science in Applied Finance aims to produce leaders in the world of finance – leaders who are primed to make an impact while also being equipped with the tools to adapt to the various evolving challenges of the finance industry, no matter the sector. 

During this 12-month program, you will learn everything you need to know to forge through and succeed in your career in finance. It is led by a world-class faculty of leading scholarly researchers and noted practitioners, who are passionate about helping you attain your goals. The flexible curriculum is taught in small class sizes that allow every student to develop the tools needed for a successful career in the global marketplace.  

With semesters held during the fall, spring and a compulsory summer semester, the Master of Science in Applied Finance is structured around relevant skills needed in today’s financial market. Through the MSAF, participants will learn how to navigate global financial markets, global portfolio management, investment analysis, financial engineering and more. 

The GWSB stands at the forefront of creating and delivering programs that educate tomorrow’s global business leaders, creating knowledge of management and the business environment, and addressing critical problems facing business and society, both locally and across the world. GWSB has a world-class faculty of leading scholarly researchers and noted practitioners, all of whom make it their business to help you attain your goals.

Offering an AACSB-accredited curriculum, we give students a strong background in the quantitative and qualitative aspects of finance, as well as the ability to understand the complexities of international and domestic financial markets, policies, and strategies. It will help you build a solid foundation for further graduate study in business, economics, public policy, law, and more.

ACADEMIC LIFE

The George Washington University’s academic life is defined by not only its faculty and students’ unique abilities for turning knowledge into action, but also for taking full advantage of GW’s vast access to world-class partnerships, policy-research initiatives and one-of-a-kind learning opportunities.

As a leading research university, GW promotes the advancement of human knowledge across disciplines and throughout its 10 schools, 100 research centers, and expansive system of libraries—and, as a result, frequently produces invaluable contributions to policymaking that affects millions of lives worldwide. Moreover, all directly benefit from the first-hand knowledge of GW’s renowned faculty, which includes a Nobel Laureate, Pulitzer Prize winner, former White House staff members, diplomats, and other leading experts in business, media, law, science, arts and the humanities.

The GWSB Experience for Finance Students (2019)

CAMPUS LIFE

Living at GW grants you the rare opportunity to encounter a variety of new cultural experiences while learning and interning at world-class institutions. Residence hall life is an essential aspect of your college experience, and some of your lifelong friends will first be your neighbors and roommates.

During your time at GW, you will likely find fellow colonials who share your interests. Whether it is leadership, politics, arts and culture, athletics or service that moves you, GW students engage in more than 450 clubs and student organizations on campus. Pursuing your passions and sharing your diversity plays an integral role in building our community.

The GW School of Business — Revolutionizing Graduate Business Education (2019)

FACULTY

GWSB faculty are professional educators who focus on teaching as a core competency. They are also thought leaders in their fields, committed to advancing theory and practice through both their research and teaching. Our faculty’s observations and real-world experience are incorporated into every aspect of the curriculum. Ethics and corporate social responsibility is woven into every class, and we place a high value on experiential learning and quality research. The topics and issues discussed in class every day are exactly the ones being debated in and around this city and the world.

The GWSB faculty publish groundbreaking research, serve as editors and editorial board members for top academic journals, engage in executive education, and actively participate in professional organizations. They are ably assisted in their teaching, research and publishing efforts by GWSB’s dedicated, knowledgeable and professional faculty/professional programs staff.

CLASS PROFILE

Our master’s programs in finance attract diverse global participants as reflected below:

International students

75%

International

Average Age

30

Average age

Average GPA

3.4

Undergraduate Average GPA

Experience

5

Years Average Experience

MSAF

50%

Female

GW-MSF

25%

50%

25%

Undergraduate Concentration

MSAF

50%

Female

GW-MSF

25%

50%

25%

Undergraduate Concentration

Experience

2

Years Average Experience

Countries

13

Countries Represented

Average Age

26

Average Age

International students

83%

International

Average GPA

3.3

Undergraduate Average GPA

Women

43%

Female

ABOUT GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY

ABOUT GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY

The George Washington University had its beginning in 1821 as The Columbian College in the District of Columbia. It is one of the largest institutions of Higher Education in D.C. For more than 200 years, the George Washington University has offered the advantages of a major private university while providing the personalized attention students would expect in a more intimate academic setting. International recognition and top research faculty, coupled with small class sizes and a forward-thinking curriculum gives students the strategic perspective necessary to succeed in today’s global marketplace.

GW’s location in the heart of Washington, D.C., provides for unparalleled access to leading international institutions, multinational corporations, global media outlets, and the governments of 177 countries via their resident embassies. One of the most diverse cities in America, D.C. is home to more than 1,000 internationally owned companies, more than 400 international associations, and nearly 180 foreign embassies, residences, chanceries, and diplomatic missions many of them less than one mile from the GW campus.

GW uses D.C. as a classroom like no other institution, hosting classes in the U.S. Capitol and George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate. Through a variety of partnerships, GW students have research opportunities with nearly every U.S. federal agency, plus several multilateral groups, including the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, National Institutes of Health, National Institutes of Standards and Technology, the Naval Research Lab, Pan-American Health Organization, Smithson.

The GW Alumni Association is a lifelong, worldwide, and diverse community of more than 310,000 alumni in over 150 countries.

Gorge Washington Facts

*Source: GWSB Fact Sheet 2020

ACCREDITATIONS

ACCREDITATIONS

GW recognizes the importance of maintaining accreditation by appropriate academic and professional agencies and organizations. We believe that ongoing accreditation of the University, its schools, departments, and programs enhances our reputation as a center of academic excellence and as a trusted provider of educational and professional preparation. This is important to prospective and current students, as well as to our alumni.

The George Washington University is:

  • Accredited by AACSB International for the School of Business’ undergraduate and graduate programs in business administration and accounting.
  • Accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, the regional accrediting agency.
  • On the approved list of the American Association of University Women.
  • Member of the College Board.
Faq

FAQ

Program & Schedule

What is MSAF?

The GWSB MSAF is a STEM designated program that combines quantitative and computer skills with financial theory and applications in a master’s of science in applied finance.

How long is the program?

The MSAF program is a 12-month program and requires students to complete 36 credits of required courses. It takes place during the fall, spring and summer semesters. The summer semester is mandatory.

Does the program allow you to be enrolled while working?

Yes. The MSAF program is designed to accommodate schedules for working professionals. In the first year, classes are held all day on Saturday; and in the second year, classes are held on Thursday and Friday from 6 to 10 p.m.

Admissions

Can students waive classes based on experience or academic background?

In general, they cannot. However, students with very strong backgrounds in a particular subject area can petition to waive up to two required courses or to replace with other relevant classes approved by the program director.

Can students transfer courses in coursework?

The MSAF is a cohort program and does not include any elective classes. Therefore, students are not permitted to transfer courses from previous graduate studies.

When can I apply?

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until final program deadline. Once all required documents have been received, the Admissions Committee will review the file and make admission decision.

How will you evaluate my application?

We consider a wide range of criteria when reviewing applications: post-academic performance, depth and breadth of professional work experience, communication skills, TOEFL scores for non-native speakers, and GMAT/GRE scores.

Is the GMAT or the GRE required?

The GMAT is usually required for applicants with less than 10 years of work experience. GRE scores are also acceptable, but GMAT is preferred.

What is a recommended threshold GMAT score for admission?

A good GMAT score should fall in the 85% percentile for the quantitative section.

Is work experience required?

We prefer that applicants have a minimum of two years of full-time, progressive and relevant work experience. Relevant work experience is one of the most important factors in the admission process.

What should I write in my statement of purpose?

We want to understand why you think this program is right for you. What will the MSF program enable you to do?

What is the cost of the program?

Tuition, per credit for MSF USD 2,025
Total fees for 48 credits
Application fees USD 80

Careers

Do you offer career placement services?

The graduate Career Center in GW School of Business offers resources for career searches. The MSAF program also sponsors several networking events tailored specifically for our students.

What are the types of jobs MSAF students land after graduation from the MSAF program?

Many students are employed as financial analysts, financial engineers, traders and other positions in risk management, fixed income and portfolio management.

What are the work opportunities after graduation from the MSAF program?

MSAF graduates are offered positions prestigious and attractive international financial institutions such as the World Bank, the IMF and the IFC, as well as at government agencies such as the FED and the U.S. Department of Treasury. Popular destinations for MSAF graduates also include investment banks, hedge funds and other private financial corporations in Washington, D.C., New York City, and other financial hubs overseas.

Want to learn more before applying?

Please provide us with some information so that our program team can help you decide if MSAF is the right program for you.

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