Investment management has evolved from an art to a science in the past two decades. This evolution has placed strict demands on practitioners to master the complex analytical and quantitative methods increasingly used in managing the investment process.

In response to the demands that today's turbulent financial markets place on financial professionals, the University of San Francisco offers a Master of Science degree in Financial Analysis (MSFA) that provides rigorous specialist training in recent advances in quantitative financial analysis and economics.

The MSFA curriculum is structured around the areas of knowledge and skills deemed necessary for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation by the CFA Institute. A thesis is not required for this program. Students may choose to take the CFA exams while in the MSFA program but are not required to do so.

The MSFA program at USF provides a coordinated, sequential approach to the tools and knowledge covered by the CFA Body of Knowledge. The MSFA curriculum is focused on bringing together finance theory and finance practice. Instructors in the program are a unique blend of USF professors and working CFA charterholders from local Bay Area firms.

Another unique characteristic of the USF MSFA program is a strong emphasis on ethical professional behavior in the financial industry--a characteristic that is integrated throughout the course of study.

Students graduate from the USF MSFA program with advanced quantitative training in economics and finance. Our graduates have the ability to understand and apply the most current tools used by investment management professionals today.

Goals of the Program:

• Provide an interdisciplinary approach to the study of financial markets and valuation of assets.
• Master the fundamental economic techniques before valuing financial assets.
• Understand the shortcomings of traditional accounting practice in the valuation process.
• Apply quantitative methods and economic theory to the analysis and management of financial asset portfolios.
• Develop a broad understanding of the micro, macro and international trends that influence the values of financial assets and the evolution of financial markets.
• Ensure a thorough understanding of industry practice and standards as embodied in the skills and knowledge required by the CFA program.