MS in Business: Finance

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this an accredited degree I'll receive?

Yes. The University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business is accredited by the AACSB (American Association of Collegiate Schools of Business) and your diploma will read Masters of Science in Business and Management.

Are the program professors Smith School faculty?

Yes, the program is taught by many of the same world-class faculty who teach in Smith's top-ranked MBA programs, along with industry practitioners.

What kind of access will I have to professors?

All professors will be available to meet during office hours and for scheduled appointments. They will also be available via email and phone.

How much of the program is done online?

None of the course work is done online. All teaching happens in the classroom. Groups, however, may choose to work virtually between classes. Virtual team interaction and group collaboration are facilitated through an online course management tool.

Are there electives?

Yes. Students are required to complete 18 credit hours as electives.

How can I learn more about the program?

Please fill out the Information Request Form or attend an information session.

Where are classes held?

The program is offered in College Park, MD, and in Washington, D.C., in the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center at 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., 20004.

What are the required qualifications for admissions to the program?

Go to the admissions page for specific admissions requirements.

Do I have to take the GMAT or GRE?

Yes. Because of the quantitative aspect of the program, you must submit the GMAT or GRE.

What is the deadline for application?

Go to the admissions page for the most up to date information on deadlines.

Who in my company should I talk to about sponsoring me and how do I explain the program benefits to my company?

Seek out support at the highest levels - not just your immediate supervisor - and be ready to point out the extra benefits of the Smith Finance Program.

How much does the program cost?

The tuition is approximately $46,000 for the Washington, D.C., location. Tuition rate in College Park is dependent on your residency status in the state of Maryland. If you qualify for in-state tuition rates, your cost will be approximately $46,000. If you qualify for out-of-state tuition rates, your cost will be approximately $54,000. This amount does not include books and additional course materials that are required to attend class. This tuition figure is based on fall 2012 costs and will change for the fall 2013 term.

Is financial aid available?

Financial aid assistance is available through loans. Go to the University of Maryland’s Office of Financial Aid Web site for more information. We do not offer any scholarships or assistantships for students in the MSB program.

Can international students enroll in the MSB in Finance program?

Yes. International students can enroll in the MSB in Finance program.

Can current MSB in Finance students apply to the MBA program and graduate with a dual degree in MBA/MSB in Finance?

Yes. Students already in the MSB in Finance program may opt to apply to the MBA program, but must complete the entire MBA application process. If a student in the MSB in Finance program is admitted into the MBA program, he/she must take part in all pre-MBA program activities (i.e. orientation, workshops, etc.). Prospective students interested in the MBA/MSB in Finance are highly recommended to apply to the MBA program first.

How long is the MSBF program?

The full-time MSBF program can be completed in 9 months. However, one may opt to finish the program in 1.5 years. The part-time MSBF program takes, on average, 2 years.

What degree will my diploma list?

Each school calls various degree programs differently, even if they have a commonly used name. At the University of Maryland, graduates of the MSB program will have the degree name Masters of Science in Business and Management listed on their diploma. You may list your specialization (Accounting, Finance, Information Systems, Supply Chain Management, or Marketing Analytics) on your resume.