Finance is a critical part of any business, regardless of the industry, which is why Master of Science degree programs in Rhode Island and other states are growing in importance. According to the New England Economic Partnership, financial services were among the positions expected to see the most growth between 2012 and 2016. The number of financial services jobs expected to be crated during this period is expected to grow at an annual rate of more than two percent, higher than many other professions in the state.

There are many different options available in the financial industry and there are positions available for those who hold an undergraduate degree. However, because positions in the finance industry can be very lucrative, many employers seek candidates with graduate degrees. Some also require applicants to have specific certifications, including Chartered Financial Analyst, Certified Financial Planner, and Certified Public Accountant. To obtain these certifications, graduate level education is often necessary, which is why Masters in Finance degree programs in Rhode Island and other states are growing more popular.

Bryant University

Graduate School of Business

The Graduate School of Business at Bryan University offers advanced degrees and certificates in nine different programs. The school offers one- and two-year programs taught by acclaimed faculty with years of experience. The programs include academics where theory and practice are used in innovative ways. Students learn in world-class facilities and develop a network of peers that will help them succeed even after graduation.

Master of Business Administration, Concentration in Global Finance

The Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Global Finance is available in either a one-year full-time program or a two-year part-time program. Students are provided with an intensive real-world education in a program designed for those with limited professional experience. Business theory is balanced with hands-on activities that help students gain real-world experience in the financial industry. Students who specialize in finance are required to take the following courses in addition to regular MBA courses:

  • Entrepreneurial Finance in a Global Setting
  • Financing the Global Supply Chain
  • Global Bank Management
  • Global Financial Management
  • Global Financial Markets and Institutions
  • Global Financial Strategy and Planning
  • Global Investments
  • Global Mergers and Acquisitions

Students must have successfully completed courses in macroeconomics, microeconomics, and statistics as part of their undergraduate courses or may be required to take those classes through the self-paced online courses offered at Bryant. Applicants must submit a statement of objectives, current resume, one professional recommendation, official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, as well as their official GMAT score.

Accreditation

  • Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Contact

Bryant University
1150 Douglas Pike
Smithfield, RI 02917
Telephone: (401) 232-6230
Email: gradprog@byrant.edu
Website: http://gradschool.bryant.edu/business/mba.htm

Providence College

Graduate Programs

Students in the Graduate Programs at Providence College are provided distinctive programs of study that help them develop the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a competitive job market. Students learn from teacher-scholars who are considered experts in their field. Students are provided with diverse perspectives and asked to tackle challenging questions—both philosophical and spiritual. Graduates of the programs at Providence College are prepared not only for successful careers, but for successful lives as well.

Master of Business Administration, Finance Concentration

The Master of Busines Administration with a Finance Concentration at Providence College offers flexible course loads that accommodate every student’s personal, professional and social needs. Students are able to bridge their current business experience with high-level skills and current business theories. They are provided the skills nad knowledge to analyze critical situations and develop defendable, socially responsible decisions. Students must have successfully completed the following six prerequisite courses before entering the program:

  • Accounting
  • Mathematics
  • Economics
  • Statistical Analysis
  • Finance
  • Marketing Management

Students may waive the Finance prerequisite through demonstration of proficiency in the elements of the course through an examination offered through the MBA Office.

In addition to required MBA courses, students in the Finance concentration must also take:

  • Financial Management for Nonprofit Organizations
  • International Finance
  • Investment Analysis
  • Management of Financial Institutions
  • Portfolio Management
  • Special Topics in Finance

In order to apply for the program, students must provide a personal statement, resume and official GMAT scores. In addition, they must provide official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended as well as two letters of recommendation.

Accreditation

  • New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Contact

Providence College MBA Program
Koffler 115
1 Cunningham Square
Providence, RI 02918
Telephone: (401) 865-2294
Email: mba@providence.edu
Website: http://www.providence.edu/business/mba/pages/programs.aspx

Rhode Island College

Graduate Program

The Graduate Program at Rhode Island College caters to professionals who wish to return to school to sharpen their skills. Unlike many undergraduate students on campus, those in the graduate program are first-generation students making personal sacrifices to further their education. Students benefit from the commitment of a highly-qualified faculty and rigorous academics. Because most graduate students hold down jobs, many of them working full-time, as well as managing a family and social obligations, they need flexibility in order to achieve their educational goals. The Graduate Programs at Rhode Island College provide that flexibility as well as the ability to work with other students committed to excellence.

M.P.Ac. in Professional Accountancy

The Master of Professional Accountancy with a concentration in personal finance provides advanced accounting education for those who have already obtained an undergraduate degree in accounting. Students enrolled in the program often plan to take the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) examination in Rhode Island. In addition, the concentration in personal finance allows graduates to custom design their degree to meet their career and personal goals. Students are provided instruction in all aspects of personal finance, including:

  • Income Tax Planning
  • Estate Planning
  • Retirement Planning
  • Investment Allocation
  • Risk Management

Students must hold a bachelor’s degree from an acrredited college or university and must have successfully completed two courses in principles of accounting. In order to apply for admission, applicants must provide official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate records as well as their official GMAT score.

Accreditation

  • New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Contact

Leslie Schuster, Interim Dean
Rhode Island College
Graduate Studies
600 Mount Pleasant Avenue
Providence, RI 02908
Telephone: (401) 456-9723
Email: graduatestudies@ric.edu
Website: http://www.ric.edu/accountingComputerInformationSystems/accountingProgram_pa.php

As the need for more individuals with financial background grows in all aspects of industry, those who have successfully completed master of finance degree programs in Rhode Island and other states throughout the country will also grow.

Related Resource: What Can I Do to Improve My Chances of Getting into a Master’s of Finance Degree Program?