Finance, MS
Info Session: Finance Programs
October 14, 2025 | 12:00pm PT
Join us for a 30-minute virtual info session to explore Golden Gate University’s MS in Finance and MS in Financial Analytics programs.
GGU’s finance programs equip professionals with the analytical and technical skills needed to thrive in today’s data-driven financial landscape. Located in San Francisco’s Financial District, GGU offers industry-connected faculty, small class sizes, and strong ties to Bay Area finance firms.
During the session, the program director will share insights on curriculum, admissions, and career outcomes. Register today to learn how GGU’s finance programs can accelerate your career in a rapidly evolving industry.
Program at a Glance
SCHOOL
Ageno School of Business
PROGRAM
Finance, MS
TOTAL UNITS
30
FORMAT
Online, Hybrid
REQUIREMENTS
No GMAT or GRE Required
SPRING ’27 FINAL APPLICATION DEADLINE
December 14, 2026
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Finance at Golden Gate University is an applied, career-focused program designed to prepare professionals for modern finance roles shaped by analytics, AI, and strategic decision-making.
The program develops advanced capabilities in financial modeling, valuation, forecasting, and risk analysis, while integrating tools and workflows used in today’s finance environment. Students build practical skills in corporate finance, investment analysis, and financial decision support, enabling them to contribute immediately in roles such as FP&A, investment analysis, and strategic finance.
With a curriculum aligned to industry practices and CFA frameworks, and delivered by industry-experienced faculty, the program emphasizes real-world application, data-driven insight, and executive-level financial communication.
Degree Highlights
Online or Hybrid Courses
30 Credits
STEM-Designated Degree
Taught by Industry Leaders
No GRE/GMAT Required
If I could summarize my experience at Golden Gate University in one word, it would be transformative. The classes are very impactful with a detailed and meticulous curriculum that is applicable to my current job.
I’m grateful to have completed my undergraduate, graduate, and CFP® certification programs at Golden Gate University, ensuring a seamless and high-quality education in one place. The university’s rigorous academics, supportive community, and commitment to professional growth—along with valuable resources like its extensive library and Small Business Entrepreneur program—gave me the skills and confidence to launch my firm, Joyner Financial Planning. I’m proud to be part of an alumni network that values lifelong learning and real-world impact.
Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the MS in Finance program will be able to:
- Apply financial theory and analytical tools to evaluate corporate investment, financing, and valuation decisions.
- Develop financial models and forecasts, incorporating scenario analysis and AI-supported workflows.
- Analyze financial performance and risk, including the relationship between risk and return, and apply techniques for risk management.
- Conduct investment and financial research, supporting portfolio and strategic finance decisions with data-driven analysis.
- Understand financial markets and institutions, and evaluate how market conditions impact financial decision-making.
- Communicate financial insights effectively, including executive-level reporting and financial storytelling.
- Use modern financial tools and AI technologies responsibly to enhance analysis, decision-making, and productivity.
- Demonstrate ethical judgment and professional responsibility in financial analysis and decision-making.
Explore Finance Career Paths
Earning your Master’s in Finance will prepare you for a variety of career opportunities in this lucrative, fast-growing field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for business and financial professionals is expected to grow 16% over the next decade, with an average of over 900,000 new job openings each year.
Career outcomes for our MS in Finance graduates include:
- International Tax Partner, KPMG
- Chief Financial Officer, Aspect Energy
- VP, Global Banking & Markets, Policy & Documentation Risk, Goldman Sachs
- Financial Advisor, Morgan Stanley
- Senior Revenue Analyst, LinkedIn
- Finance Program Manager, Stanford Health Care
- Financial Analyst, Visa
- Director, Loan Review & Credit Risk Audit, Bank of the West (BMO)
- Lead Financial Analyst, Voya Financial
- Head of Data Management Solutions, Retail Investor Group, Vanguard
- Senior Investment Manager, Private Wealth Management, Fidelity Investments
Admission Requirements
Curriculum
The Master of Science in Finance requires completion of 30 units in the program, with a cumulative grade-point average of 3.00 or better in courses taken at Golden Gate University that are applicable to the program’s requirements. Courses carry three semester units of credit unless otherwise noted. For further information regarding graduation requirements, see Academic Requirements for Graduate Programs. All course prerequisites must be satisfied prior to enrolling in a given course and are indicated in the course description for each course.
Total Program (30 Units)
Directed Electives – 24 units
Elective Courses – 6 units
Select two of the following.
One 3-unit MSBA 300/400-level course.
Business Analytics Concentration – 6 units
Instead of completing 6 units of elective courses, students may add the Business Analytics Concentration to their degree.
Complete 6 additional units beyond the 24-unit MS in Finance Directed Elective courses.
Select any two 3-unit MSBA 300 or 400-level courses.
Featured Faculty
Dr. Anitha Manohar
Professor of Finance
Finance and Economics Department Chair
Dr. Anitha Manohar received her PhD in Finance from the University of South Carolina in 2009. Before joining Golden Gate University, she was an Assistant Teaching Professor of Finance at Quinnipiac University in Connecticut for four years and at Mercer University in Georgia for eight years. She has taught finance courses in Investments, Derivative Securities, Security Analysis, Corporate Finance, International Finance, Portfolio Theory and Financial Planning.
Keley R Petersen, MBA
Professor
Founder & CEO, Willow Grove Advisors, LLC
Keley R Petersen, MBA, is a Professor in the Ageno School of Business and the Founder & CEO of Willow Grove Advisors, LLC.
Peter Lou, CFA
Distinguished Adjunct Professor
CEO and President, Highmark Analytics Solutions Inc.
Peter Lou, CFA, is a banking professional with 25+ years of experience working for Ernst & Young Management Consulting, Wells Fargo Wealth Management, Union Bank Portfolio Analytics.
Graduate Tuition
The tuition for most graduate degree programs at Golden Gate University is $1,090 per unit, covering the cost of high-quality, career-focused education led by experienced faculty. This investment supports essential resources, including personalized academic advising, state-of-the-art technology, and student services designed to help adult learners succeed.
Admissions
Find out more about admission requirements for your program, tuition and financial aid options, scholarships, and how to start your application.
Student Experience
Explore all of the resources available to our GGU community, including career services, advising, tutoring, and support for military students and international students.
About the Ageno School of Business
Learn more about GGU’s Ageno School of Business, including our 100+ year history, renowned faculty, and innovative programs.
