MSF I students at their opening residency.
General FAQ | Courses & Curriculum FAQ | Admissions FAQ
General FAQ
How many starts are there each year?
There is one start in the fall of each academic year.
Is this program available as a part-time program, full-time, or both?
Students can choose to study part-time or full-time. Our part-time option is designed for established professionals who would like to complete their degree while they continue to work. The full-time option is designed for those who would like to pursue their graduate degree immediately following completion of an undergraduate degree, or those between full-time positions. The full-time status also allows students to target a summer internship, something that fully employed part-time students are not usually able to do. Studying as a full-time student can close a perceived job gap. Plus, you can always switch back to part-time study should you accept a full-time position while pursuing your degree. Learn More.
How long does it take to complete Georgetown's online Master of Finance?
Georgetown's online MSF can be completed in 10 to 21 months depending on the track you choose. The accelerated (intensive full-time) track takes 10 months, while the traditional track—available in both full-time and part-time formats—takes 21 months. All students begin as a cohort in the fall semester and take first-year courses together. Students can switch between part-time and full-time status as their circumstances change
What is the difference between the accelerated and traditional track?
Regardless of which format you choose, all students enrolling in the fall semester begin as a cohort and take their first-year courses together to encourage camaraderie and co-learning among classmates. The most notable difference is that students in the accelerated track also enroll in courses that students in the traditional track take in their second year in the program. Regardless of which track you pursue, all students have access to the same courses and professors.
What is the difference between the GRE and GMAT?
The GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) is a test that measures your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking and analytical writing skills. These are important skills we develop throughout our lives that aren’t specific to any one field of study.
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admissions Test) measures your analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal and reading skills in written English. It’s intended for applicants to graduate management programs, like the MBA.
How are the graduate exams structured?
The GRE features two essays with 60 minutes of analytical writing; two 30-minute verbal reasoning sections; two 35-minute quantitative reasoning sections; and one experimental section testing verbal or math skills.
The GMAT features one 30-minute analytical section with one essay; a 30-minute integrated reasoning section; a 75-minute quantitative section; and a 75-minute verbal section.
What is the academic accreditation of Georgetown University’s MSF program?
All McDonough School of Business degree programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Does the MSF degree specify it was an online program on the transcript or diploma?
The degree awarded is a Master of Science in Finance with no designation of program modality.
Is an online master's in finance worth it?
Yes, an online master's in finance can provide significant career ROI. Georgetown MSF graduates with 4+ years of experience have reported an average 73% increase in base salary after completing the program. The program's AACSB accreditation, blended online format, and access to McDonough School of Business resources ensure the same rigorous education as on-campus programs. For working professionals, the ability to continue earning while completing the degree enhances the financial return, while the 96% employment rate for recent graduates demonstrates strong career outcomes.
Do online MSF program students have access to on-campus resources?
Yes. Each online student is a member of the Georgetown family and always is welcome on campus. Online MSF students receive a GoCard, which grants them access to campus buildings. In addition, all students are encouraged to use university library resources, and attend sporting events, lectures, and more.
Does Georgetown's online MSF degree say 'online' on the diploma?
No. The degree awarded is a Master of Science in Finance with no designation of program modality on the diploma or transcript. Online MSF students earn the same credential as on-campus students, backed by the full prestige of Georgetown University and the McDonough School of Business's AACSB accreditation.
Can I work while completing Georgetown's online finance degree?
Yes. Georgetown's online MSF is specifically designed for working professionals. The part-time track allows you to complete coursework while maintaining full-time employment, with weekly 90-minute MSFLive sessions held during evening hours. Asynchronous coursework through the Anytime Media platform can be completed on your own schedule throughout the week. Many students successfully balance demanding careers with their MSF studies, and the flexibility to switch between part-time and full-time status allows you to adapt as your circumstances change.
What makes Georgetown's online MSF different from other online finance programs?
Georgetown's MSF stands out through its innovative Blended4 Experience and prestigious McDonough School of Business faculty. Key differentiators include: The Blended Classroom technology that allows online and in-person students to interact as if they're next to each other; the cohort model fostering strong peer relationships; global consulting capstone projects with international travel; access to the Georgetown Hoya network and campus resources; multiple completion timelines (10 or 21 months); and the combination of rigorous academic curriculum with emphasis on ethical, principled leadership—a hallmark of Jesuit education.
What networking opportunities are available to online MSF students?
We work hard to extend the same networking opportunities available to on-campus students to online students. You are encouraged to attend McDonough School of Business receptions and lectures online or virtually. Students in the program can network in our Women in Finance group, and all students are encouraged to participate in investment challenges when they occur, such as the Peeptrade Investment Challenge. Upon graduation, we hope you'll take part in events organized by the McDonough Office of Alumni Relations or the MSF program, many of which are often offered online and in-person for your convenience.
Can online MSF program students participate in MSF and McDonough student organizations?
Yes. As an online student, you are encouraged to participate in all the student organizations our program and school offers. For example, students in the program can participate in Women in Finance, which provides the opportunity to participate in discussions on hot topics in the industry. The Georgetown FinTech club also is popular with our students. The group aims to foster a community passionate about start-ups, venture capital, and organizations leveraging technology to transform the financial services industry.
Are there any organizations specific to women in the degree program?
Yes. Many of the students in our program participate in Women in Finance. This group provides opportunities for students to participate in discussions related to hot topics in the industry.
Courses & Curriculum FAQ
What is the difference between a Master of Science in Finance and an MBA?
A Master of Science in Finance (MSF) provides specialized, technical finance education, while an MBA offers broader business management training. Georgetown's MSF allows students to develop deep expertise in valuation methods, portfolio construction, financial modeling, and risk management in a shorter timeframe (10-21 months vs. 2 years for most MBAs). The MSF is ideal for professionals seeking to advance specifically in finance careers, while an MBA better suits those targeting general management or cross-functional leadership roles.
Does this program involve any in-person residencies?
There are three invaluable residency experiences. The first is a weeklong opening residency that takes place after completing the program’s first core course: Financial Markets. During this week, students meet face-to-face with their faculty mentors and engage in an intensive case study with their fellow classmates. This unique opportunity allows students to fully immerse themselves in the Georgetown University experience, explore the campus and fortify the bonds made with peers and faculty. Students are also required to be on campus for an intensive weekend of team work in preparation for each team’s presentation of their consulting project to their international client, the third residency. This requirement is an important component of the capstone Global Consulting Project course.
What is the MSF Blended4 Experience and how does the Blended Classroom work?
Georgetown University's MSF Blended4 Experience is a revolutionary approach to technology-intensive education that allows online students and on-campus students to learn alongside each other and benefit from the same opportunities. The Blended Classroom offers you the option to attend MSFLive sessions each week on campus or online. Despite geographic distance, students and professors interact as if they are next to one another, so everyone receives the same quality of education.
Notable features of the Blended Classrooms:
- You will be required to participate in weekly live lectures and discussions that we call MSFLive.
- Other coursework can be completed at your own pace throughout the week.
- Tailor our program to your unique circumstances by studying part-time or full-time. You can also change your status if you need to.
- Experience the same student support services and career services as in-person students, from wherever you are.
Throughout your online program, you'll participate in multiple forms of communication with a tight-knit network of professors and fellow students. This way, you can take advantage of a traditional classroom experience while also enjoying the convenience of completing the program without needing to relocate to the Washington, D.C. area.
Learn more about the MSF Blended4 Experience
Does Georgetown's MSF program teach Python or other programming skills?
Yes. Georgetown's MSF curriculum includes opportunities to develop programming skills in Python through elective courses. The Advanced Financial Modeling and Big Data elective courses allow students to gain an understanding of big data analysis using programming languages. Students who take these courses emerge with marketable technology skills applicable to quantitative finance roles. The program prepares graduates to work with financial modeling tools and data analysis techniques increasingly demanded by employers.
What are the benefits of the Georgetown MSF cohort model of learning?
We use a cohort style model which means that each starting class progresses through the entire program together. Our students repeatedly tell us this structure has enhanced their learning and co-learning experience exponentially, with each student encouraging one another to think deeply and actively participate in group discussions. This shared learning experience allows students to be both a teacher and a learner, while building rewarding, tight-knit relationships both personally and professionally.
Does Georgetown MSF help prepare for the CFA exam?
While Georgetown's MSF is a standalone master's degree and is not specifically a CFA prep program, the rigorous finance curriculum covers many topics relevant to CFA exam content, including investments, fixed income, derivatives, portfolio management, financial analysis, and ethical decision-making. Many MSF students and alumni pursue CFA certification either before, during, or after completing their degree. The deep finance knowledge gained through the program provides a strong foundation for CFA preparation.
What opportunities are there to get hands-on experience in investing outside of coursework?
The Peeptrade University Challenge provides a great opportunity to learn more about investing and network. Student teams achieved extraordinary success by turning $1 million into $383 billion in 2018.
Admissions FAQ
Is there an Orientation prior to the program start?
Yes. Every student participates in an on-campus orientation prior to the start of the program. The orientation is an opportunity for incoming students to meet classmates and faculty so they can hit the ground running with their first course. It also brings students together on campus to learn about available resources.
What is the GPA requirement for admission to the online MSF program at Georgetown University?
Your overall GPA is less important to the admissions committee than your undergraduate major, school and performance in the most relevant courses.
What are the admission requirements for Georgetown's online MSF?
Georgetown's MSF admissions process takes a holistic approach, considering multiple factors including undergraduate GPA (with emphasis on performance in relevant courses), GMAT or GRE scores, professional experience, letters of recommendation, and personal statement. While a business undergraduate degree is not required, strong quantitative aptitude is valued. Pre-experience candidates can strengthen their application through internships, organizational involvement, and academic projects. The program begins each fall with one annual start date.
Is GMAT required for Georgetown MSF?
Georgetown's online MSF program requires applicants to submit scores from either the GMAT or GRE. Both exams are accepted equally. The GMAT measures analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills, while the GRE assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing. Prospective students should contact admissions to discuss which exam may be better suited to their background.
Does Georgetown MSF accept transfer credit?
Transfer of course credits to the MSF program is not permitted. This includes both graduate credits earned at other institutions and graduate credits earned at Georgetown University prior to enrolling in the MSF program. All students enrolled in the MSF degree program are required to meet the minimum 32-credit requirement to graduate.
Due to time limits and the academic commitment required of the MSF degree program, at this time, the MSF degree may not be pursued as a concurrent or joint degree with any other degree program at Georgetown, including those in the School of Business. Similarly, students may not take courses outside of the required courses for the MSF program.
Does the MSF program sponsor student visas for international students?
No, at this time, the MSF program does not provide visa sponsorship for its international students.
I am an international student who wants to study online from my home country. Am I eligible?
Yes. However, Georgetown University is not currently accepting applications for online programs from students who are residents of the following countries unless they are U.S. citizens:
- Canada (exception: applications are accepted from Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec)
- Germany
- Kenya
- Spain
- Cuba
- Iran
- North Korea
- Sudan
- Syria
- Crimea, and the so-called Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics (DNR and LNR) within Ukraine.
We make every effort to keep these lists up to date; however, your admissions advisor will have the most current information on online admissions from states or countries outside the District of Columbia.
This online program will use the following platforms: [Adobe Connect, Engage, Canvas, YouTube, Google Drive, Zoom, etc]. Students should confirm that they have a reliable internet connection and the ability to access each of these platforms before applying/registering. While every effort is made to ensure course content and materials can be accessed by all students, it is not guaranteed. A variety of circumstances may affect the ability to access course content and materials, including internet access issues, firewalls, and hardware limitations. Students who are unable to access course content and materials will not be able to complete the program, and will receive a refund consistent with Georgetown’s refund policy. Students are individually responsible for acquiring any necessary visas for the MSF program including international residency location(s). Before applying, international students are encouraged to research visa regulations for the MSF program and its residency location(s) to be sure they will be able to obtain any necessary visas for the required travel components.
Please be aware that students who relocate while enrolled at Georgetown University may experience a delay in registration eligibility or potentially be unable to complete their studies if they are moving to a country or state where Georgetown is not currently authorized to offer a particular online program. Current students should contact their Community Manager if they are considering relocating during their course of study.