Jan
20
ABOUT MFIN
Strategic Finance
The Master of Finance (MFin) program at the UC Irvine Paul Merage School of Business is a one-year, full-time, STEM-designated program that provides you with advanced expertise, specialized knowledge, and practical tools across multiple sectors of the finance industry. You’ll build the skills to succeed in today’s dynamic digital landscape while gaining the competitive edge needed to excel in investment banking, wealth management, corporate finance, asset management, fintech, and beyond.
THE UC Irvine Advantage
Why Choose the MFin Program?
The Master of Finance Program prepares you for a wide range of dynamic careers across the finance sector. The curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation in finance and analytics while preparing you for professional certifications like the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Financial Risk Manager (FRM) exams. With six distinct career pathways, a STEM designation, and personalized career services, the MFin program offers you the flexibility and focus to accelerate your career trajectory.
STEM Designation
Eligible international students can apply for extended Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Six Career Pathways
Tailor your coursework toward Asset and Wealth Management, Real Estate, Fintech, Corporate Finance, Investment Banking & Private Equity, or Quantitative Finance & Risk Management.
Capstone Project
Solve real-world finance challenges through industry consulting projects.
Career Center ProSeminar Series
Build critical professional skills for sustained career success.
The Master of Finance program at UC Irvine is incredibly special — not just because of the academics and professors, but because of the people you meet. Ambitious, collaborative, and driven — that's what makes this program stand out.
Leonardo Vecchi MFin ’22
ACADEMICS
What to Expect
The MFin program is a full-time program that begins each fall. Students complete 13 courses — including six core courses and seven electives — allowing you to personalize your education and focus on your career goals.
Complete in 12 Months
Finish your degree in just four quarters of full-time study.
Elective Flexibility
Customize your degree to align with your chosen career pathway.
STEM-Designated Curriculum
Gain a competitive edge with a program that blends technical and analytical finance skills—eligible for extended OPT for international students.
CFA-Aligned Coursework
Build the knowledge and tools needed to pursue the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) credential with confidence.
ADMISSIONS
Unlock the Door to Opportunity
The MFin program is ideal for candidates with a four-year bachelor’s degree and a strong foundation in finance, economics, business administration, accounting, or a quantitative discipline.
#15
Master of Finance program in the U.S. (TFE Times 2024)
91%
Job landing rate six months after graduation.
100
Current class size.
MEET AN ADVISOR
Connect With Us
You are not alone in this journey. Click the link below to schedule a one-on-one conversation with an advisor who can answer your questions about the MFin program, the application process, life at UC Irvine and much more.
CAREER IMPACT
Empower Your Growth
The MFin program provides a robust ecosystem of career development tools and personalized coaching to help you build a rewarding career in finance. You will benefit from:
- Individual Career Coaching
Personalized support focused on your professional goals - Career Development Workshops
Resume writing, LinkedIn strategy, networking skills, and more - Capstone Experience
Real-world consulting projects to build your resume - Global Alumni Network
Leverage relationships with professionals across industries and geographies
TUITION & FINANCIAL AID
Invest in Your Future
An MFin degree from UC Irvine is a strategic investment with a strong return. We offer a range of financial aid options designed to support your goals and reduce out-of-pocket costs.
SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE
A majority of students receive scholarship awards.
STREAMLINED FINANCIAL AID PROCESS
Here to guide you through financial support.
I chose the Merage School because I knew from my undergrad experience that faculty don’t treat you like just another name on their roster. This program offers not just a solid financial foundation but also career advising through ProSeminar. I am confident that being a part of this community will help me excel in more than just my courses, but also my job search.
Mayuri Garg MFin '20
UPCOMING EVENTS
Join Us!
Our upcoming events are designed to connect you with industry leaders, faculty and peers to accelerate your journey in the world of finance or learn more about this robust program.
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Jan 24
UC Irvine Merage School Happy Hour in San Francisco
Terrene Restaurant & Bar - 1 Hotel San Francisco - -
Jan 27
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Jan 30
RECENT NEWS
What’s Happening?
Stay informed with the latest updates, achievements and breakthroughs from our faculty, students and alumni as they make waves in the finance world.
Our Industry Partners
The UCI Paul Merage School of Business is recognized as a CFA Institute Affiliated University. The CFA Institute is the global membership association that administers the Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) and Certificate in Investment Performance Measurement (CIPM) curriculum and exam programs worldwide. It also publishes research, conducts professional development programs, and sets voluntary, ethics-based professional and performance-reporting standards for the investment industry.
Our Master of Finance (MFin) program has been acknowledged as incorporating at least 70 percent of the CFA Program Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK) and placing emphasis on the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct within the program. This program helps students obtain the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) charter, which has become the most respected and recognized investment credential in the world.
Being a CFA Institute Affiliated University signals to students, employers, and the marketplace that the Merage School MFin curriculum is closely tied to professional practices and is well-suited to prepare students to sit for the CFA examinations. LEARN MORE >>
The Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) is a leading industry organization for risk management professionals worldwide. As an Academic Partner, our program aligns with the rigorous standards set by the Financial Risk Manager (FRM®) certification, recognized globally as the benchmark for careers in risk management. This is evidence that our program remains up to date with risk management and quantitative finance topics that our students learn and can put into practice. Furthermore, our students benefit greatly from this partnership as it provides them with access to exclusive risk management events, online content, research opportunities, and scholarships for the FRM exam. LEARN MORE >>
The Certificate in Quantitative Finance Institute (CQF) is dedicated to supporting the professional development of students studying Masters in Finance, Financial Engineering and Quantitative Finance. As an academic partner, students within the MFIN program can benefit from a wide range of free membership benefits including invitations to technical conferences, networking events, career advice, thought leadership, partnership opportunities and more. LEARN MORE >>
CONNECT WITH US
Have a Question?
Our advisors are here to guide you through the process. Connect with us today and discover how UC Irvine’s MFin program can help you take the next step in your professional journey.
Want to hear more about scholarships, programs, and updates?
Connect With Us
