Master of Business Administration in Finance
Hours: 33 On-Campus Online
About
The MBA in Finance program at Fort Hays State University combines a rigorous business administration core with specialized finance courses tailored to elevate your expertise in financial management. This program sharpens your analysis, strategy, and economic decision-making skills, preparing you for leadership roles in various sectors.
Students will benefit from a curriculum that interweaves theoretical foundations with practical applications, enabling them to tackle real-world challenges effectively. With exposure to core financial principles and advanced topics like financial market analysis and foreign exchange markets, graduates are well-prepared to excel in the financial industry.
Why pursue a Master of Business Administration in Finance at Fort Hays State University?
Our MBA in Finance program is designed to provide students with a deep dive into the financial aspects of business administration, setting it apart from similar programs. Unlike programs that offer only a general overview, our curriculum delves into the intricacies of financial markets, monetary policies of the Federal Reserve System, and the global financial markets, equipping you with the expertise to lead in high-stakes environments.
Moreover, the program is taught by faculty members who are scholars and seasoned finance practitioners. This blend of academic rigor and practical experience provides a rich learning environment with insights and networking opportunities, giving our graduates a competitive edge.
Who is this program for?
The MBA in Finance program at Fort Hays State University is designed for a diverse group of individuals eager to deepen their understanding of finance and elevate their careers in various sectors of the economy. This program caters to:
- Aspiring financial analysts and managers
- Current finance professionals aiming for executive roles
- Entrepreneurs who need to manage their business finances
- Professionals in other fields seeking a career change to finance
Learning Outcomes
By participating in the MBA in Finance program, students will interact with experienced finance faculty and engage with a curriculum infused with real-world financial challenges and advanced financial management techniques. The program aims to educate and equip students with the skills needed to excel in the global financial market.
Integrate Concepts from the Business Disciplines
Students of the MBA in Finance program will integrate key concepts from various business disciplines. They demonstrate a strong understanding of essential functional areas, including accounting, economics, finance, marketing, organizational behavior, and strategic management. Additionally, students develop insights into global business issues and are equipped to analyze social responsibility and ethical challenges that businesses face.
Become Effective Communicators
Graduates demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in writing through reports, letters, strategic plans, and other documents. Furthermore, they will show proficiency in oral communication when making presentations and proposals.
Understanding Information Technology as a Strength for Organizations
Graduates will understand how information technology can serve as a key asset for an organization. They will recognize the connection between business and information technology, as well as the critical role that IT plays in implementing enterprise initiatives to achieve overarching business goals.
Real-World Applications
Our program prepares students for the dynamic and demanding financial sector. Through a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes applied learning and real-world problem-solving, we equip our students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in this industry. Our International Finance, Money and Banking, and Financial Markets and Institution courses are built on current market scenarios, ensuring our students can effectively apply their knowledge professionally.
Moreover, the MBA in Finance offers challenging and engaging learning opportunities for students to tackle real-world financial challenges. This provides invaluable hands-on experience that they can immediately apply in their careers. This practical approach ensures that graduates not only understand financial theories but can also implement them to drive business success.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
At Fort Hays State University, we incorporate the latest financial technologies and trends into our MBA in Finance program to ensure our students are well-prepared for the future of finance. This includes understanding current regulatory changes and insights into sustainable economic practices.
Our courses are updated to reflect the latest financial strategies and market conditions. Our students are prepared to lead the way in financial innovation by keeping up with the rapidly evolving financial tools and theories and adapting to changes.
Hands-on Activities
Our MBA in Finance emphasizes real-world application through hands-on activities that bridge the gap between theoretical financial concepts and their practical applications. These activities provide students with practical skills in managing financial resources, analyzing financial data, and making informed financial decisions. The hands-on experiences enhance learning and build confidence and competence in handling complex economic issues.
What You’ll Learn:
- Critical financial analysis skills
- Financial environment in which businesses operate
- Monetary policies and strategies used by the Federal Reserve System
- Insights into global markets and institutions
- Ethical considerations in financial decisions
How You’ll Learn:
- Research projects
- Interactive coursework
- Student-Faculty interaction
The core curriculum of our MBA in Finance covers essential business administration topics such as strategic management, organizational behavior, and operations management. Additionally, the program includes specialized courses in financial markets and institutions, money and banking, and international finance.
These courses are designed to provide a thorough understanding of financial concepts, enhanced by real-world applications and case studies that bring these concepts to life. Students gain not only knowledge but also practical skills that are directly applicable to careers in finance.
ECON 640G: Money and Banking
This course examines the framework for money creation and transfer among individuals, firms, and governments. It analyzes the impact of money supply and demand on national output, prices, and interest rates and covers Hicks' IS-LM model while evaluating fiscal and monetary policy effectiveness in an open economy.
FIN 641G: Financial Markets and Institutions
This course studies the nature, scope, and role of financial institutions in the economy, including the supply and demand for loanable funds, the money market, capital markets, and the structure of interest rates. It also covers monetary, fiscal, and debt management policies.
FIN 645G: International Finance
This course involves the examination and analysis of international financial decision-making in areas such as foreign investments, trade, and working capital management, considering various political, cultural, and technological constraints.
Discover the full Master of Business Administration in Finance course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
The MBA in Finance from Fort Hays State University equips graduates with robust skills and knowledge that open doors to various high-level career opportunities in finance. This program imparts advanced expertise in financial management and international finance. It prepares students to handle complex financial challenges in today's dynamic economic environment. Graduates are poised for success across various industries, including corporate finance, financial markets, global businesses, and beyond. They are highly sought after for their ability to integrate financial theory with practical application, drive strategic decisions, and foster organizational growth. Promising career paths for MBA in Finance graduates:
Corporate Financial Planner
Graduates can step into roles that focus on developing and executing corporate financial strategies. They utilize their financial modeling and forecasting skills to enhance company profitability and manage financial risks.
Treasury Manager
Responsible for an organization's finances, including liquidity, investments, and risk management, treasury managers ensure that financial operations support the organization's goals. They play a critical role in financial planning and maintaining the company's financial health.
Equity Research Analyst
These analysts provide valuable insights and recommendations by analyzing financial data and market trends to forecast the performance of stocks or industries. This role is critical for clients making informed investment decisions. It is well-suited for MBA in Finance graduates who excel in detailed financial analysis and market evaluation.
MBA applications are accepted throughout the year, and admissions are made continually. It typically takes up to four weeks for an application to be processed. To ensure you're admitted for the upcoming semester, please submit your application at least 30 days before the start of classes. Applying early helps avoid any delays in your admission process. The FHSU Graduate School and MBA Committee will only review complete application packages, which must include the following:
- A paid graduate application
- Current resume
- Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate coursework (in English)
- Two (2) letters of recommendation (must be signed and on letterhead to be official)
- Personal statement from student indicating reasons for seeking a Master of Business Administration degree, including professional and/or career goals and pertinent past work experience.
- Other requirements as specified by the Fort Hays State University Graduate School - Apply through the FHSU Graduate School.
- Please do not include a photograph on any application materials. Applications with photographs will not be reviewed.
- All application materials should be sent to the FHSU Graduate School via email at gradschool@fhsu.edu or mail:
Graduate School
Fort Hays State University
600 Park Street
Hays, KS 67601
Questions regarding the application process can be directed to the FHSU Graduate School at 785-628-4236 or gradschool@fhsu.edu or Sarah Patterson, MBA Graduate Coordinator, at 785-628-5696 or gradcoordinator@fhsu.edu.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $11,463.09* (on-campus) or $12,035.58* (online)* during their time as a student.
*Estimated costs are based on calculating the GR resident/regional tuition rate for on-campus students or the FHSU Online GR tuition rate plus the tuition rate for the MBA by the number of hours needed (24 MBA and 9 graduate concentration courses) to complete this program. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
For students interested in the MBA in Finance but also considering other educational pathways, Fort Hays State University offers a variety of programs that complement or enhance the financial management skills taught in the program. These programs cater to different interests and career goals within the broader fields of business and finance:
Leverage industry connections and university alumni networks to gain introductions and advice.
Gain practical experience through internships that offer exposure to financial operations and decision-making. Note: While internships provide valuable real-world experience in the field, internship credits cannot be applied toward the MBA in Finance degree.
The finance concentration delves into financial management, international finance, and the financial markets, preparing students to handle various financial tasks and leadership roles.
Students learn to analyze financial statements, how monetary policy can be used in the foreign exchange market, how businesses operate in the financial environment, and make strategic investment decisions.
This concentration builds on general MBA studies by focusing intensely on finance, including corporate finance, financial markets, and international finance.
It equips students with the advanced skills needed for high-level positions in finance, enhancing their ability to influence and guide organizational financial strategies.
An MBA in Finance significantly enhances career opportunities and potential earnings, especially in competitive financial sectors.
It allows students to develop specialized knowledge, making them more valuable to employers who need expertise in nuanced financial areas.
The time required to complete the MBA in Finance varies depending on the student's course load and schedule. Some MBA concentrations can be completed in as little as 12 months. Most working professionals will take three to six credit hours a semester and will take three or more years to complete the degree.
The MBA in Finance is available entirely online, offering flexibility for working professionals and those who require distance learning options. The online format provides the same rigorous curriculum and interaction with faculty as the on-campus program.
Department Information
FHSU’s Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting provides expertise in effectively and ethically managing money in both public and private sectors for a highly versatile, in-demand career path. Our department provides highly sought-after degrees in accounting, finance, and international business and economics. These programs are backed by career-centered internship opportunities, in-depth mentoring by faculty and staff, and flexible online degrees. Our programs prepare students for in-demand jobs, with courses that span the entire business landscape. The Robbins Banking Institute further enhances career preparation in the area of banking, offering a practical, real-time curriculum for rewarding careers. Our faculty, who are experts in their field and student-focused, support students to maximize individual growth.
While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.
- Accounting Club: This club offers a valuable opportunity for accounting students to connect with peers and prepare for their future careers. It aims to help members explore the various opportunities available in the field of accounting and introduce them to potential employers. Meetings frequently feature guest speakers who hold accounting degrees and are actively working in the profession.
- Student Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners: The ACFE organization brings together students from many disciplines to promote the detection and prevention of fraud in business.
- Economics Club: The FHSU Economics Club is available to all students regardless of their major or knowledge of economics with the goal of promoting the study of and interest in economics. The signature activity of the club is to create a “Student Price Index” through a collaborative research project on FHSU student economic expectations. The club members typically take a trip to a major city in the U.S. every year.
- Finance Club: The FHSU Finance Club strives to assist in the professional, educational, and social development of college students interested in finance. The club also encourages interaction between the business sector, faculty, and students at FHSU. As part of club operations, they bring in speakers and take trips around the U.S. to learn more about the finance field.
- International Business Club: This club strives to improve students’ awareness and understanding of global business practices and economic issues. These issues are explored from diverse perspectives. Ultimately, the club aims to develop global citizen-leaders by enhancing students’ professional, educational, and social development through its discussions, activities, and international travel experiences.
The Tiger Money Mentors Program is housed in the Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting and directed by a financial planning faculty member. This program provides free financial guidance from students you can trust. This is a group of trained, money-savvy students passionate about helping you take care of your finances. They offer one-on-one sessions to answer your financial questions on a variety of financial topics, including:
- Organizing your finances and spending
- Creating and sticking to a budget
- Developing a plan to reach your short- and long-term financial goals
- Understanding your student loans and repayment options
- Reviewing job offers and employee benefits
- Obtaining and reviewing your credit report
- And more!
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