Our office receives many inquiries regarding our programs, admissions, and financial aid.  In an effort to better serve you, we have posted a selection of these questions with their answers here. 

In addition to the questions below, if you have questions regarding admissions, click here.  If you have questions regarding financial aid, click here.  If you are an international applicant, click here.

How long does it take to complete the MSF program?

The length of time in a program will be dependent upon whether or not you require prerequisite work.  If you do not require prerequisite work, the length of the program is 15 months for most students. 

What if I do not have a background in business?

If you do not have a prior undergraduate or graduate degree in business, our program requires that you enroll in prerequisite courses that help provide you with the foundation that will ultimately help you succeed in the more in depth finance coursework. 

What courses can I get waived? How many courses can I have reviewed for waivers?

The MS in Finance Programs grants waivers for equivalent coursework taken in the 7-years, prior to admission, with a grade of B or better.   Specifically we look for an academic background in economics, accounting, finance & statistics.  If you’ve taken these courses, and meet our guidelines, then you are eligible to waive the corresponding prerequisite.  All students must minimally complete 30-credits to earn a graduate degree from the Sawyer Business School.  If you would like your unofficial transcripts evaluated, contact the MSF Associate Director, Caitlin Ryan at cryan@suffolk.edu.

When can I begin in the MSF Program?

Since we operate on a quarter system our program admission points are September and March*. 

*Please note that if you need any prerequisite work you should plan to begin your studies in either September, January, May, or July.  The prerequisite coursework for the MSF program is taught out of the MBA Program which operates on a normal semester basis.  All prerequisite work must be completed before entering the MSF Program.  If you have questions regarding whether or not you would need to complete prerequisite work, our office is more than happy to complete an informal review of your transcripts.  If you would like your unofficial transcripts evaluated, contact the MSF Associate Director, Caitlin Ryan at cryan@suffolk.edu.

What Graduate Finance Programs do you offer?

Here at Suffolk University we offer a variety of Graduate and Post Graduate Programs in Finance: 

Graduate
MS in Finance  
MS in Financial Services and Banking  
MBA/MSF 
JD/MSF  
Accelerated MSF for Attorneys  
MBA concentration in Finance  

Post-Graduate
Advanced Certificate in Finance

What is the difference between the MS in Finance (MSF) and the MS in Financial Services and Banking (MSFSB) programs?

Please look through the MSF webpage for details on the MS in Finance programs offered as well as the online version of our Brochure.  The major difference between the MSF and the MSFSB is that the MSFSB is specifically designed for individuals with a specific interest in commercial banking, investment banking, international banking and asset securitization.

How can I get in touch with alumni to learn about their experiences?

The Suffolk Alumni Admissions Network (AAN) consists of Suffolk University alumni who have agreed to answer the questions of prospective students. Information about AAN can be found here. For international students interested in speaking with other International students, the Alumni Office’s International Ambassadors are a great resource. You can find information on them here.