Master of Arts in Financial EconomicsThe Master of Arts in Financial Economics focuses on the study of economics and financial principles related to U.S. and international financial systems. The program also provides a deeper knowledge of history, institutions and world economy. As a liberal arts degree, the program also addresses moral and ethical issues related to the field of finance.

Upon completion of the graduate degree, the degree candidate is expected to understand:

how financial economics is pertinent to financial institutions, industry and government

international finance and its relationship to the U.S. economy

a variety of economic models as well as the moral and ethical implications of economic decisions and options

the U.S. system of money, banking, and other business expertise

investments and U.S. government policy and financial systems

the relationship between the public and private sectors

Career OptionsCareers in the financial economics area have become increasingly sophisticated in both the private and public sectors and in government. A Master of Arts degree in Financial Economics will prepares a student to meet the more demanding career challenges in the increasingly complex financial institutions of a global economy. The degree also provides outstanding preparation for careers in law, government, business and finance.

Given the expanding needs of financial institutions with complex products and processes, there is a growing job market in the field of financial economics. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, "overall employment of financial analysts and personal financial advisors is expected to increase faster than average for all occupations through 2014, resulting from increased investment by businesses and individuals."

Course DeliveryTo provide greater convenience and flexibility, courses will be available in different delivery options:

traditional day and evening in-classroom format

online courses

one-week, intensive courses using in-classroom format

Program curriculum adheres to UDM's standards of academic integrity and intellectual merit.

Admissions Requirements

Pre-requisites and Admission RequirementsIn order to be admitted to the Master of Arts in Financial Economics program, an applicant must meet entrance requirements of UDM. The applicant must also have completed a baccalaureate or advanced degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. In certain cases, additional prerequisites may be required.

Degree Requirements

To obtain a Master of Arts in Financial Economics degree, the degree candidate must successfully complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of required graduate-level Economics courses.

FacultyUDM's Economics faculty have significant academic experience as well as practical experience in the world of finance, economics and business. Specific areas of expertise include international and resource economics, financial institutions and public policy, and economic theory.