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Admissions and Applications

Admissions to the MSFA program

Admission to the MSFA (Master Science in Financial Analytics) program is based on a holistic review of the entire application package, evaluating academic preparation, professional potential, and alignment with focus on financial analytics. In addition to the general university requirements, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. Bachelor's degree and GPA: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with at least GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale may still be considered if they have STEM designated undergraduate degree or demonstrate at least 1 year of relevant professional experience in finance, data analysis, technology, or related fields.  
  2. Statement of Purpose: Submit a 500-750 word statement outlining your career goals, how the MSFA program's curriculum will help the applicant to achieve his or her goals and to gain any relevant quantitative or analytical experience. And the applicant needs to highlight his or her interest in financial analytics.
  3. Resume: Provide a current resume detailing academic background, professional experience, internships, skills, and extracurriculars. Quantitative or technical experience is highly regarded in evaluation.
  4. Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions are required. The department will evaluate quantitative readiness based on coursework in areas such as statistics, calculus, linear algebra, programming, or economics. A minimum of one undergraduate course (or equivalent professional training) in statistics is preferred. If deficiencies are identified, applicants may be admitted conditionally and required to complete a bridge course prior to enrollment.
  5. Recommendation Letter: A letter of recommendation is encouraged but not required. For applicants with non-finance backgrounds or lower GPAs, it is recommended to highlight quantitative strengths in the letter.    
  6. Standardized Tests: No GMAT or GRE required, aligning with the program's emphasis on practical analytics skills over test scores.
  7. English Proficiency for International Students:  International applicants whose primary language is not English and who have not completed three years of full-time study at an English-medium institution must submit scores from TOEFL (minimum 550/PBT, 213/CBT, 79-80/IBT), IELTS (minimum 6.5), or Duolingo (minimum 110), taken within the past two years. Completion of Level 4 of CSUSB's Intensive English Program also satisfies this requirement.
  8. Optional Portfolio: Applicants may submit a portfolio of quantitative work (e.g., a research project, financial model, or data analysis sample) to strengthen their application, particularly for those from non-traditional backgrounds.

 

Admission to the CAPE Blended Program Option 

This accelerated pathway allows eligible CSUSB undergraduates to begin MSFA coursework in their senior year, reducing time to degree completion. In addition to the university requirements, invitations are based on:

  1. Academic Standing: Must be a CSUSB undergraduate with junior standing or higher.
  2. Residency Units: Completed at least 12 upper-division units in residence at CSUSB.
  3. Coursework: Completed FIN 3001 and FIN 3002 with a GPA  of 2.75 or higher across these two courses or instructor's recommendation;
  4. Graduation Timeline: Not in the semester of baccalaureate degree completion.
  5. Overall GPA: Minimum CSUSB GPA of 2.75, or by the MSFA Director’s or department chair’s consent.

Accepted students receive conditionally classified status. Status become fully classified upon the bachelor's degree completion. Graduate assistantship may be available for qualified students on a competitive basis.

 

Application and Financial Aid

How to apply?

  1. Master of Science in Financial Analytics. (It is offered at San Bernardino campus).
  2. Master of Science in Financial Analytics (CAPE Blended option): taewon@csusb.edu.

(MS in Financial Analytics is offered at San Bernardino campus).

Financial Aid

There are several other recourses for funding: https://www.csusb.edu/pace/home/financing-your-education). If you have questions about Federalfinancial aid, you are welcome to contact our specific FA liaison, Nicolette Cusino. Her contact information: Nicolette.cusino@csusb.edu. Tel: 909-537-5220.

You may also check with your own financial institution for personal and education loans. We recommend you to conduct an internet search for scholarships and see what turns up. Try your social and service clubs, many of which offer funding for continuing education. Check with your employer about professional development funds or tuition reimbursement payments.