Frequently Asked Questions

The program was designed for two types of students: experienced finance professionals who are looking to understand the special challenges of digital transformation in their field, and professionals with experience in data science and technology who are looking to deepen their understanding of the financial services industry. If you are in one of those two groups, you cannot afford to miss this opportunity!

It would depend upon what exact classes they will take but a short answer that is relevant to most students in Computer Science domain will be Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Large data modeling, Data inference techniques, Understanding and building AI agents, Large Language Models, Computer Vision. In Finance domain you will learn valuation techniques (both fundamental analysis and techniques used for valuation in venture capital world), strategic financial management, fintech, financial data analytics including use of non-standard data. Not only will you explore emerging technologies and their finance applications, but you will also develop leadership skills to help you and your organization adapt in a fast-changing environment.

Nothing beyond a `recent’ windows or mac. Installation of free Linux may be needed for some classes.

• Foundations of Machine Learning
• Understanding large data modeling, statistical analysis, and critical data reasoning
• Understanding how to make machine learning models resistant attacks (e.g., poisoning attacks)
• Principles of Large Language Models and natural language processing
• Principles of computer vision and applications to various domains (face/medical/vehicles, etc.)
• Application of deep learning in various domains

Yes. The program will allow students to learn fundamentals as well as how the technology is applied in evolving modern technologies. For example, the students will learn how AI agents for various technologies are built and deployed.

The program provides instruction in Python for students who are not familiar with it. They will also use libraries such as NumPy, Pandas, Scikit-learn, PyTorch, and TensorFlow

No, the program is currently offered exclusively as one half-semester online module and three on-campus modules. It is designed to be completed in one year on campus, with immersive learning and networking opportunities. Students benefit from small cohorts, direct faculty mentorship, and in-person access to career services and FMI recruiting events.

No, you do not need an undergraduate degree in finance to apply, but a strong quantitative foundation is encouraged. Applicants from economics, engineering, statistics, and business often do well in the program. We evaluate applicants holistically, so strong performance in quantitative coursework can offset a non-finance background.

While compensation varies by location, industry sector, and specialized technical expertise, entry-level salaries for graduates typically range from $65,000 to $95,000+.

• Technical & AI Execution ($70,000 – $100,000+)
  • Junior Fintech Engineers building and scaling core digital platform infrastructure.
  • Data Scientists & ML Engineers designing algorithmic models for predictive forecasting and automated fraud detection.
• Analytical & Risk Strategy ($65,000 – $110,000+)
  • Quantitative Analysts (Quants) structuring automated trading and asset allocation workflows.
  • Risk & Compliance Analysts mitigating tech-driven vulnerabilities and handling regulatory frameworks.
• Business & Digital Transformation ($60,000 – $85,000+)
  • Fintech Financial Analysts evaluating business growth and market disruption vectors.
  • Product Analysts bridging the operational gap between engineering teams and financial strategists. Long-Term Career Trajectory

For experienced professionals leveraging this master’s degree to accelerate their career or pivot into leadership, long-term ROI is exceptionally strong:

• Fintech Product Managers: $110,000 – $190,000
• Senior Blockchain & AI Architects: $110,000 – $200,000+
• Fintech Directors & Executives: $170,000 – $250,000+ (excluding equity and performance bonuses)

After completing the program, graduates are well prepared to follow a career in the field of fintech or build on new found credibility and confidence to provide critical business analytic advisory services.

The program can be done in 12 months, although we expect most students to take 15-18 month.

No. MSFTAI is a non-thesis (Plan B) professional master’s focused on applied skills in finance, data analytics, machine learning, and AI. Students interested in research-focused graduate study may want to consider thesis-based programs.

The program begins each year in May during the summer semester.

Yes.

Yes, the program director may waive up to 13.5 credits of equivalent 300- and 400-level Finance or Computer Science courses based on prior undergraduate coursework.

It is highly unlikely that you can manage both without extending your time in the program to 24 months.

Yes. Palmer Placement Center helps with job search, career advice, etc.

Yes, but it depends on the applicant. Please contact the program director.

TOEFL scores are generally not required, but may be requested for non-native English speakers after initial review of your application.

MS in Fintech and AI graduates receive an MSU Master of Science degree from the Broad School of Business.

MSFTAI is a STEM designated degree program. This designation can be beneficial for students as there is a growing demand for STEM skill sets in today’s market.

International students are welcome and encouraged to apply to the MS in Fintech and AI program. Admissions policies and tuition fees are the same for both international and non-international students. In order to facilitate visa processing, international students are encouraged to submit visa applications for each of the US-based modules as soon as they are put in touch with our dedicated MSFT Program Manager. Please note that international students typically obtain F-1 student visas and are responsible for the costs incurred for the SEVIS/visa application fees throughout their tenure as students.

Yes. While we can accept unofficial transcripts as part of your application for initial assessment purposes, we must receive your official transcripts directly from all institutions from which you hold a completed degree in order to provide you with an admissions decision.