University of San Diego

What you'll study

The programme combines core finance theory with applied financial management and client advisory coursework. Core topics typically include corporate finance, investments and portfolio management, financial statement analysis, fixed income and derivatives, risk management, and quantitative methods for finance. In addition, students study modules that emphasise financial management services such as wealth management, financial planning, tax-aware investing, and client relationship management.

Students usually complete a mix of required courses and electives, allowing specialisation in areas such as asset management, corporate treasury, fintech, or financial planning. The curriculum commonly includes a capstone project or practicum where students work on real-world cases or client engagements, and many cohorts have opportunities for internships with regional financial firms. Coursework is often structured to align with professional designations and exams (for example, CFA-related topics and principles of investment management).

Entry requirements

• Academic background: A recognised bachelor's degree in any discipline; strong quantitative preparation (courses in calculus, statistics, economics or finance) is preferred.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts demonstrating undergraduate academic performance.
• Standardised tests: GMAT or GRE may be recommended or optional depending on applicant profile; applicants with strong quantitative records or relevant professional experience may be eligible for a waiver.
• Professional materials: Current CV or résumé highlighting academic and work experience, and a personal statement outlining career goals and fit with the programme.
• References: One or more academic or professional letters of recommendation.
• English language: For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency (for example TOEFL or IELTS) is required unless exempt by prior study or recognised waivers.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of finance roles across the private and public sectors. Typical career destinations include asset management and portfolio analyst roles, investment banking and corporate finance positions, treasury and financial planning roles within corporations, wealth and private client advisory, risk management and compliance, and positions in fintech or consulting practices that serve financial institutions.

The programme’s applied components and internship links help students build practical experience and employer contacts, supporting transitions into entry-level and early-career roles as analysts, associate advisers, financial planners, or risk/treasury specialists. Over time, alumni frequently progress to senior roles such as portfolio manager, financial controller, chief financial officer, or lead wealth advisor.

Why study at University of San Diego

• Practical, regionally connected programme: The School of Business maintains relationships with San Diego’s finance community, offering internship and networking opportunities with local firms, banks and wealth managers.
• Small cohorts and practitioner faculty: Class sizes are typically modest, allowing close interaction with faculty who combine academic research with practitioner experience in finance and advisory roles.
• Experiential learning: The curriculum emphasises applied projects, practicums and case work that develop technical proficiency and client-facing skills valued by employers.
• Career support: Dedicated career services assist with recruiting preparation, interview coaching and employer introductions tailored to finance and financial services sectors.
• Ethical perspective: In keeping with the university’s mission, the programme integrates ethics and regulatory awareness into finance training, preparing graduates to advise clients and organisations responsibly.