MSBA/MSF Dual Degree Archive 2020-2021
Master of Science in Business Analytics/Master of Science in Finance Archive 2020-2021
STEM Classification
The MSBA/MSF is a dual degree program with a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) designation. Due to the demand of graduates with expertise in STEM fields, the Department of Homeland Security permits international students graduating from STEM programs to apply for a 24 month extension of their initial year of Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more detailed information, please visit the ISSO webpage.
MSBA/MSF Curriculum
19-22 Courses
53-62 Credits
Program Length:
- Full-time in as few as 16 months
- Part time in as few as 24 months
Required Introductory Courses (2 credits)
Must be taken on campus in first semester of program.
SBS-700 Unlocking Your Professional Potential
1.00
SBS-700 is the first required course in Suffolk's graduate programs. The course is based on the precepts of experiential learning. Based on the idea that people learn best by participating in meaningful activities this course provides you with the opportunity to identify your strengths, interests, values, vision, and capabilities, and identify next steps to leverage your program and realize your professional goals.
FIN-601 Introduction to Statistics, Accounting, & Finance Intensive
MSF and MSFSB students only;
1.00
This is a boot camp-style course which introduces students to the basic concepts of math, statistics, accounting, and finance. Given the technical nature of modern finance, this course is designed to prepare students for the challenges of taking advanced finance courses. The course is based on lectures, problem solving, and discussion of concepts.
Prerequisite Courses (9 credits)
May be waived. Must be taken or waived prior to enrolling in Finance core courses.
SBS-603 Managerial Economics
3.00
This course is required for MSA and MSF students and it is also a recommended elective for MBA students with a finance concentration. This course develops an understanding of the concepts, tools, and applications of economics at both the micro and macro level. The focus is on how economic analysis influences decision-making in the public and private sectors and how economic tools can enhance managerial effectiveness and organizational efficiency. The economic role of government and its impact on the business environment in a market economy, the factors that influence firm performance and competitiveness, and the role of financial institutions in the current economic environment are discussed throughout the course.
MBA-640 Corporate Financial Reporting and Control
3.00
This course deals with the structure and information content of the three principal financial statements of profit-directed companies, namely the income statement, balance sheet, and statement of cash flows. It develops skill in using accounting information to analyze the performance and financial condition of a company, and to facilitate decision making, planning and budgeting, and performance appraisal in a managerial context. This course also contains an experiential component by offering guided inquiry and real company cases.
MBA-650 Value Based Financial Management
1 course from each of the following groups: MBA-615 or SBS-603; MBA-625, SBS-604, or ISOM-631; MBA-640 or ACCT-800; These courses may be taken prior to or concurrently with MBA-650.
3.00
This course introduces the basic principles of corporate finance. The main focus is on fundamental principles such as time value of money, asset valuation, and risk and return tradeoff. Topics to be covered also include cost of capital, capital budgeting, and capital structure.
Finance Core Courses (15 credits)
Must be taken on campus unless permission to take online granted by Academic Program Director.
FIN-800 Financial Statement Analysis and Valuation
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
An in-depth analysis of financial statements, this course is designed to help investors and managers in their assessment of a business entity. The course focuses on the analysis and interpretation of the balance sheet, income statement, statement of cash flows, and statement of shareholder's equity. The course also focuses on forecasting the financial performance and valuation of a company by combining the analytical work with a qualitative assessment of the economy and the industry in which the firm operates.
FIN-808 General Theory in Corporate Finance
MBA-650
3.00
This course extends the body of knowledge acquired in MBA 650. Students expand knowledge of dividend theory, capital structure theory, capital budgeting, long-term financing decisions, cash management and corporate restructuring, market efficiency, and risk and liability management.
FIN-810 Investment Analysis
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
Students examine markets for investment procedures, valuation models, basic analytical techniques, and factors influencing risk/return tradeoffs. This course emphasizes the professional approach to managing investment assets. A variety of investment vehicles are discussed, including stocks, bonds, options, and futures.
FIN-814 Options and Futures
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
Students explore the pricing of options and futures contracts, the characteristics of the markets in which these contracts are traded, options and futures strategies, and the application of these contracts in the hedging of financial positions. In addition, students are exposed to swap markets and a variety of swaps.
FIN-818 Financial Econometrics
MBA-650
3.00
Students are introduced to mathematical statistics and basic econometrics. They study fundamental econometric tools as well as hypothesis testing, analysis of variance, linear regressions, simultaneous equations, and models of qualitative choice.
Business Analytics Core Courses (18 credits)
ISOM-631 Data Analytics with SAS Base
3.00
This course introduces students to the concepts and applications of data analytics on large data sets for managerial decision-making. Students will learn foundation skills needed to extract valuable information out of data, including various descriptive, predictive and prescriptive analytics techniques using SAS Base as the Analytic tool. Student develop knowledge of data visualization and interpretation coupled with conveying data, results and insights. Issues on data acquisition, storage and management internal and external of a SAS Base framework will be discussed. This course will provide the much-needed coding skills highly sought after by many companies seeking to employ students from our university.
ISOM-801 Solving Business Problems Using Advanced Excel
3.00
Analyzes various real world business problems and explores the full scope of MS Excel's formulas, functions and features to create data models and present solutions. Students analyze data, design custom charts, graphs, PivotTables and Pivot charts, create three-dimensional workbooks, build links between files and endow worksheets with decision-making capabilities. Students conduct What-If Analysis, utilizing Scenario Manager, Solver, Data Tables and Goal Seek. This course provides the skills necessary to pass the Microsoft Office Specialist Certification in Excel.
ISOM-821 Data Management and Modeling
This course was formerly ISOM-815
3.00
Introduces the importance of information as an organizational resource, role of big data in organizations, and the application of tools to provide high quality information. Students will be able to select the most appropriate data management tool (e.g., SQL vs. non-SQL databases) to business scenarios. Develops the skills needed to succeed in today's big data environment through the application of data management techniques, cases and exercises. Students will become proficient in designing databases using entity relationship modeling and normalization, in building and querying databases of various sizes with Access and SQL (an industry standard), preparing high quality data and applying data visualizing techniques. Students will complete a series of business-oriented hands-on exercises, prepare cases, and complete projects on database design and big data.
ISOM-825 Enterprise Data Management
3.00
Provides students with an understanding of the nature of enterprise integration and enterprise software, business process reengineering, the implementation within organizations, and strategies for maximizing benefits from enterprise systems. To manage complex business processes in today's multi-national, wired and wireless world, firms need integrated software packages to manage their global business. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are used to support a wide range of business functions for all companies across industries. With ERP systems, business managers are able to make decisions with accurate, consistent, and current data. Intensive lab projects on the SAP ERP System with real life business scenarios are utilized to reinforce understanding of enterprise systems functionality and business process concepts.
ISOM-827 Data Warehouse and Business Intelligence
3.00
This course teaches students how to build and maintain data warehouses, and how to analyze and use this data as a source for business intelligence and competitive advantage. Students study data mining concepts, Big Data environments and analytics, and the use of analytics tools and methods for producing business knowledge. Topics include extraction, transformation and loading; decision support systems; text, web and data mining models as well as data presentation/visualization including dashboards, scorecards and various charts. Students build a data warehouse and practice the extraction and transformation process used to produce high quality data warehouses. Students will also experience Big Data storage and processing of Big Data. Students will use tools such as MS Excel, Tableau, Hadoop, Hive, Pig, Spark, and SAP Business Warehouse.
ISOM-835 Predictive Analytics
3.00
Predictive analytics make predictions about unknown future events. It is crucial for companies to ask the right questions, perform rigorous analysis, and take actions that will result in the most desirable outcomes. This course develops students' capability in applying the core concepts and techniques of predictive analytics to identify opportunity, recognize patterns, predict outcomes, and recommend optimal actions within the context of organizational decision-making. Topics include: business analytics life cycle, data pre- processing, linear and nonlinear regression, tree-based methods, model assessment and selection, and resampling methods.
Finance/Business Analytics Capstone Courses (6 credits)
Should be taken as late in the program as possible. Must be taken on campus unless permission to take online granted by Academic Program Director.
ISOM-837 Data Mining and Business Insights
Take ISOM-835
3.00
This course is built upon the predictive modeling course and covers a broad collect of data mining and business analytics techniques, including estimation, classification, clustering analysis, network analysis, association rule mining, text mining, etc. It focuses on turning data into business insights and eventually use data and analytics to create business value. The course takes a holistic approach of business analytics, starting from identifying and defining business questions, evaluating data quality, cleaning and preparing data to selecting models, interpreting outcomes, and communicating analysis and results to technical and management audiences. Students also are reinforced in their familiarity of data ethics framework, communicating analytics results, and the implementation of analytics in business. Throughout the course, students are involved in hands-on analysis using large sets of real data from a variety of industries. Students are expected to complete a analytics consulting project with an industry client and a formal presentation of the project.
FIN-820 Financial Policy
Take FIN-808, FIN-810, and FIN-814. (FIN-814 can be taken concurrently)
3.00
Students examine financial theories, techniques, and models applied to the study of corporate financial decisions, aspects of corporate strategy, industry structure, and the functioning of capital markets.
Concentration Descriptions and Applicable Elective Courses (12 credits)
Choose four (4) elective courses from the approved MSF electives list. Courses must be taken on campus, within Sawyer Business School, 800-level or above (exception MBA 740 and ISOM 730), unless permission to take online is granted by the academic Director.
MSBA/MSF Concentrations
Students may declare an MSF concentration in Corporate Finance, Financial Services and Banking, Fintech, Investments or Risk Management. If a concentration in Corporate Finance, Investments or Risk Management is declared, three electives must be in one concentration area.
If a concentration in Financial Services and Banking is declared students must complete FIN 816 and three approved Financial Services and Banking electives. If a concentration in FinTech is declared, students must complete ISOM 730, FIN 830, one approved FIN elective and one approved ISOM elective.
Students should consult with their advisor if interested. Students who declare a concentration must submit an SBS Graduate Program Concentration Request Form.
The schedule of when courses within a concentration are offered vary by semester.
The concentration appears on the transcript, not the diploma.
Corporate Finance Concentration
FIN-801 Money & Capital Markets
MBA-650
3.00
Students analyze markets for financial assets, including the money market and various bond and stock markets. They learn determinants of the level and structure of interest rates, the Federal Reserve impact on markets, how financial institutions operate with respect to their sources and uses of funds, essentials of the regulatory structure of financial markets, transaction costs, and interrelations among markets.
FIN-812 Capital Budgeting
MBA-650
3.00
Students examine techniques and decision-making rules for the evaluation and selection of long-term investment projects by corporations and the interaction of investment and financing.
FIN-825 International Finance
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
This course covers corporate financial decisions in an international setting with a focus on foreign exchange management and capital budgeting.
FIN-830 Introduction to FinTech
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
This course introduces students to the history, terminology, current developments, future challenges and opportunities related to the application of technology to financial discipline. With an emphasis of case studies and guest lecture, the class will discuss algorithmic trading, predictive behavioral analysis, data-driven decision making, mobile-only services, robo advisers, machine learning, artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies, Blockchain, RegTech, InsureTech, innovations in lending, and cybersecurity. Students will be required to complete projects based on a statistical software package.
FIN-841 Financial Forecasting
Take MBA-650
3.00
The nature, techniques, and problems of business forecasting. Covers indicators of business activity, short-run econometrics forecasting models, and the construction of aggregate forecasts as well as forecasts of major economic sectors. Includes long-term predictions and the application of aggregate and sector forecasts for particular industries and firms. Prerequisite: FIN 818.
FIN-845 Private Capital Markets
Take MBA-650;
3.00
This course addresses the financial needs of private businesses, focusing on the financial motives and needs of private company owners and their advisors. The course is an opportunity to present private finance as a complement to corporate finance/public finance so as to prepare students to better serve or participate in making better financing decisions in the marketplace of privately held businesses.
FIN-880 Investment Banking
MBA-650
3.00
Students analyze the main functions of investment banks such as origination, syndication, and distribution of security issues. They examine pricing of new issues and secondary offerings by investment banks, mergers and acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, valuation of closely held companies, and restructuring of distressed companies. The role of investment bankers in restructuring industry and financing governments and ethical issues faced by investment bankers will be studied.
FIN-882 Applied Risk Management
MBA-650
3.00
Students develop a framework for understanding, analyzing, and valuing modern financial instruments. Students examine several types of derivative securities and their use in managing financial risk. While the interests of issuers, intermediaries, and investors will all be considered, the primary emphasis will be on the perspective of corporate financial managers and the use of modern financial technology in the creation of value for shareholders.
FIN-895 MSF Thesis
Complete two of the following courses: FIN-750 FIN-613 FIN-805 FIN-713
3.00
MSF Thesis work
FIN-900 Special Topics in Finance
MBA-650
3.00
An in-depth analysis of timely special issues in the field of finance. Specific topics are announced when the course is scheduled.
FIN-910 Directed Individual Study
Instructor's approval required
3.00
A student-initiated directed study project, generally for three credit hours and completed within one quarter or semester. The student and faculty advisor must concur on a written proposal and final report, and the proposal must be approved by the Office of the Dean prior to registration.
FIN-920 MSF Graduate Internship
MBA-650 and Instructor's approval. Limited to MSF students only.
3.00
Provides a hands-on, practical learning opportunity for a student-initiated experience at a domestic or international organization. Students work closely with the MSF advisor and a faculty advisor regarding career-related learning outcomes. Over the course of a semester, students collaborate with their corporate internship supervisor and complete projects related to the field of finance. Offered every semester.
Financial Services and Banking Concentration
FIN-816 Risk Management in Banking and Finance
Take MBA-650;
3.00
The course introduces students to the structure and management of international financial-services firms and methods through which financial institutions manage risk. The course discusses tools for identifying, measuring, evaluating, and managing risks, such as interest rate, credit, foreign exchange, liquidity, market, sovereign, and operational risk. The course also introduces key regulations and discusses important ethical issues in the financial-services industry.
Electives: (3 courses, 9 credits)
FIN-801 Money & Capital Markets
MBA-650
3.00
Students analyze markets for financial assets, including the money market and various bond and stock markets. They learn determinants of the level and structure of interest rates, the Federal Reserve impact on markets, how financial institutions operate with respect to their sources and uses of funds, essentials of the regulatory structure of financial markets, transaction costs, and interrelations among markets.
FIN-825 International Finance
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
This course covers corporate financial decisions in an international setting with a focus on foreign exchange management and capital budgeting.
FIN-830 Introduction to FinTech
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
This course introduces students to the history, terminology, current developments, future challenges and opportunities related to the application of technology to financial discipline. With an emphasis of case studies and guest lecture, the class will discuss algorithmic trading, predictive behavioral analysis, data-driven decision making, mobile-only services, robo advisers, machine learning, artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies, Blockchain, RegTech, InsureTech, innovations in lending, and cybersecurity. Students will be required to complete projects based on a statistical software package.
FIN-831 Portfolio Management
FIN-810
3.00
Students learn theory and techniques of scientific portfolio management, including the establishment of portfolio objectives, evaluation of portfolio performance, asset allocation strategies, and the use of derivative securities in portfolio insurance.
FIN-835 Behavioral Finance
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
The foundation of most of modern financial models and theories are based on neoclassical economists' assumption that most economic agents are rational decision makers. Behavioral finance recognizes that our cognitive biases and errors along with our individuality are not always consistent with the rationality assumption and utility maximization. This course will examine the implications of human psychology, emotions and biases on financial decision-making process as well as potential impact on the overall financial markets.
FIN-841 Financial Forecasting
Take MBA-650
3.00
The nature, techniques, and problems of business forecasting. Covers indicators of business activity, short-run econometrics forecasting models, and the construction of aggregate forecasts as well as forecasts of major economic sectors. Includes long-term predictions and the application of aggregate and sector forecasts for particular industries and firms. Prerequisite: FIN 818.
FIN-845 Private Capital Markets
Take MBA-650;
3.00
This course addresses the financial needs of private businesses, focusing on the financial motives and needs of private company owners and their advisors. The course is an opportunity to present private finance as a complement to corporate finance/public finance so as to prepare students to better serve or participate in making better financing decisions in the marketplace of privately held businesses.
FIN-880 Investment Banking
MBA-650
3.00
Students analyze the main functions of investment banks such as origination, syndication, and distribution of security issues. They examine pricing of new issues and secondary offerings by investment banks, mergers and acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, valuation of closely held companies, and restructuring of distressed companies. The role of investment bankers in restructuring industry and financing governments and ethical issues faced by investment bankers will be studied.
FIN-881 Real Estate Finance
Take MBA-650;
3.00
Students are introduced to the language and principles of real estate. Includes an overview of decision-making in the field, with particular emphasis on investment and asset management.
FIN-882 Applied Risk Management
MBA-650
3.00
Students develop a framework for understanding, analyzing, and valuing modern financial instruments. Students examine several types of derivative securities and their use in managing financial risk. While the interests of issuers, intermediaries, and investors will all be considered, the primary emphasis will be on the perspective of corporate financial managers and the use of modern financial technology in the creation of value for shareholders.
FIN-884 Fixed Income Securities
Take FIN-810
3.00
The course is designed to provide information on various types of fixed income securities and markets, theories and concepts of the term structure of interest rates and valuation of fixed income securities, measurement and management of risk for traditional bonds and bonds with embedded options, understanding of the role of derivatives such as mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities, swaps and exotic options, credit analysis and bond rating, portfolio management and performance evaluation. This course is generally offered as an intensive elective.
FIN-885 Enterprise Risk Management
MBA-650
3.00
The course introduces basic corporate valuation models and shows how risk arises in firms and how managing that risk can impact the firm's valuation. It shows different ways and contracts that can be used to change the risk profile of the firm. The course will introduce methods including using derivatives to hedge, and the use of insurance and hybrid insurance contracts, and through the adjustment of the capital structure and other financial policies of the firm (dividend payout strategies, optimal compensation, etc.). Throughout the course we will use various risk metrics to demonstrate the impact the risk management strategy has on the firm's exposure to risk and the value that is created by undertaking the activity.
FIN-887 Fundamental Equity Analysis
Take FIN-810;
3
Students examine fundamental equity analysis as the convergence of a number of skills such as accounting, financial, and strategic analysis with detective work and experience. Students practice communicating and defending an argument, use a business analysis framework that helps tie together strategy and finance, practice model building and practical approach to profitability in the markets.
FIN-890 Data Analytics & Credit Risk
Take MBA-650
3.00
This course provides introduction to quantitative business analytics methods and their applications in credit risk analysis. It covers the steps involved in building, testing, and validating various credit risk models, as currently practiced in modern lending financial institutions. The course delves both into the theoretical and the practical aspects of each particular class of models, and emphasizes hands-on application of analytical tools and construction of models. Integral part of the course is the development and improvement of business analytics skills through projects using firm-, industry-, and macroeconomic data. The projects involve data preparation, analysis, and visualization, as well as result interpretation and communication. The primary computing tool for the course is R, which is widely used for data analysis in the corporate world, and is growing in popularity.
FIN-895 MSF Thesis
Complete two of the following courses: FIN-750 FIN-613 FIN-805 FIN-713
3.00
MSF Thesis work
FIN-900 Special Topics in Finance
MBA-650
3.00
An in-depth analysis of timely special issues in the field of finance. Specific topics are announced when the course is scheduled.
FIN-910 Directed Individual Study
Instructor's approval required
3.00
A student-initiated directed study project, generally for three credit hours and completed within one quarter or semester. The student and faculty advisor must concur on a written proposal and final report, and the proposal must be approved by the Office of the Dean prior to registration.
FIN-920 MSF Graduate Internship
MBA-650 and Instructor's approval. Limited to MSF students only.
3.00
Provides a hands-on, practical learning opportunity for a student-initiated experience at a domestic or international organization. Students work closely with the MSF advisor and a faculty advisor regarding career-related learning outcomes. Over the course of a semester, students collaborate with their corporate internship supervisor and complete projects related to the field of finance. Offered every semester.
MBA-740 Immerse- Travel Seminar
3.00
The Immersion course provides an opportunity for students to link their program work to hands-on experience and visits to real-life global companies. The highly experiential, intensive course combines classroom learning with a direct business and cultural experience. Students will work in teams directly for a client or several clients, solving real challenges, using their analytical skills, knowledge, and experience to develop feasible solutions. Required for all MBA students, the course will be offered globally or nationally to accommodate a variety of student needs.
FinTech Concentration
Required Courses (6 credits)
ISOM-730 Python for Business Analytics
3.00
This course is introductory to use Python for business analytics, intended for students with little or no programming experience. Students will learn how to program with Python and how to use it in conjunction with scientific computing modules and libraries to compute, analyze, and visualize data to make analytics-driven decisions in finance, operations, marketing, accounting, and management. By the end of this course, students will have confidence and understanding of how to program in Python, know how to create and manipulate arrays using numpy library, know how to use pandas library to create and analyze data sets, know how to use matplotlib and seaborn libraries to create beautiful data visualization, and have an understanding of scikit-learn for data analytics.
FIN-830 Introduction to FinTech
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
This course introduces students to the history, terminology, current developments, future challenges and opportunities related to the application of technology to financial discipline. With an emphasis of case studies and guest lecture, the class will discuss algorithmic trading, predictive behavioral analysis, data-driven decision making, mobile-only services, robo advisers, machine learning, artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies, Blockchain, RegTech, InsureTech, innovations in lending, and cybersecurity. Students will be required to complete projects based on a statistical software package.
Finance Elective Course (1 course, 3 credits)
FIN-882 Applied Risk Management
MBA-650
3.00
Students develop a framework for understanding, analyzing, and valuing modern financial instruments. Students examine several types of derivative securities and their use in managing financial risk. While the interests of issuers, intermediaries, and investors will all be considered, the primary emphasis will be on the perspective of corporate financial managers and the use of modern financial technology in the creation of value for shareholders.
FIN-884 Fixed Income Securities
Take FIN-810
3.00
The course is designed to provide information on various types of fixed income securities and markets, theories and concepts of the term structure of interest rates and valuation of fixed income securities, measurement and management of risk for traditional bonds and bonds with embedded options, understanding of the role of derivatives such as mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities, swaps and exotic options, credit analysis and bond rating, portfolio management and performance evaluation. This course is generally offered as an intensive elective.
FIN-885 Enterprise Risk Management
MBA-650
3.00
The course introduces basic corporate valuation models and shows how risk arises in firms and how managing that risk can impact the firm's valuation. It shows different ways and contracts that can be used to change the risk profile of the firm. The course will introduce methods including using derivatives to hedge, and the use of insurance and hybrid insurance contracts, and through the adjustment of the capital structure and other financial policies of the firm (dividend payout strategies, optimal compensation, etc.). Throughout the course we will use various risk metrics to demonstrate the impact the risk management strategy has on the firm's exposure to risk and the value that is created by undertaking the activity.
FIN-887 Fundamental Equity Analysis
Take FIN-810;
3
Students examine fundamental equity analysis as the convergence of a number of skills such as accounting, financial, and strategic analysis with detective work and experience. Students practice communicating and defending an argument, use a business analysis framework that helps tie together strategy and finance, practice model building and practical approach to profitability in the markets.
FIN-890 Data Analytics & Credit Risk
Take MBA-650
3.00
This course provides introduction to quantitative business analytics methods and their applications in credit risk analysis. It covers the steps involved in building, testing, and validating various credit risk models, as currently practiced in modern lending financial institutions. The course delves both into the theoretical and the practical aspects of each particular class of models, and emphasizes hands-on application of analytical tools and construction of models. Integral part of the course is the development and improvement of business analytics skills through projects using firm-, industry-, and macroeconomic data. The projects involve data preparation, analysis, and visualization, as well as result interpretation and communication. The primary computing tool for the course is R, which is widely used for data analysis in the corporate world, and is growing in popularity.
ISOM Elective Course (1 course, 3 credits)
ISOM-840 Security and Privacy
3.00
Introduces the fundamental principles of information and big data security. Security vulnerabilities, threats and risks will be analyzed. Common types of computer attacks and counter-attacks will be identified. Security technologies such as biometrics, firewalls, intrusion detection systems and cryptography systems will be applied in conjunction with human based safeguards. Business continuity and disaster recovery planning will be covered. Students will then learn how to design and build a layered security defense combining several of the above controls to address the different challenges to data security. The managerial concerns of security and privacy of information will be stressed including the legal and privacy issues. Best practices for planning and auditing security and privacy will then be covered.
ISOM-845 Business Intelligence and Data Analytics
3.00
Introduces business intelligence and data analytics. Business intelligence and data analytics help organizations in strategic and operational decision making by improving performance management, optimizing customer relations, monitoring business activity, and improving decision support. On a macro-level, the class will discuss business cases for the adoption of business intelligence and data analytics. We will discuss technologies and processes for gathering, storing, accessing, and analyzing data to provide users with better insights and business decisions. On a micro-level, students will use a variety of tools to build their skills in analyzing data to solve business problems. In summary, this course provides a conceptual understanding of business data resources and the development of capabilities for data preparation, warehousing, selection, description, mining, interpretation, visualization, communication, and innovation.
Investments Concentration (9 credits)
FIN-801 Money & Capital Markets
MBA-650
3.00
Students analyze markets for financial assets, including the money market and various bond and stock markets. They learn determinants of the level and structure of interest rates, the Federal Reserve impact on markets, how financial institutions operate with respect to their sources and uses of funds, essentials of the regulatory structure of financial markets, transaction costs, and interrelations among markets.
FIN-830 Introduction to FinTech
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
This course introduces students to the history, terminology, current developments, future challenges and opportunities related to the application of technology to financial discipline. With an emphasis of case studies and guest lecture, the class will discuss algorithmic trading, predictive behavioral analysis, data-driven decision making, mobile-only services, robo advisers, machine learning, artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies, Blockchain, RegTech, InsureTech, innovations in lending, and cybersecurity. Students will be required to complete projects based on a statistical software package.
FIN-831 Portfolio Management
FIN-810
3.00
Students learn theory and techniques of scientific portfolio management, including the establishment of portfolio objectives, evaluation of portfolio performance, asset allocation strategies, and the use of derivative securities in portfolio insurance.
FIN-835 Behavioral Finance
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
The foundation of most of modern financial models and theories are based on neoclassical economists' assumption that most economic agents are rational decision makers. Behavioral finance recognizes that our cognitive biases and errors along with our individuality are not always consistent with the rationality assumption and utility maximization. This course will examine the implications of human psychology, emotions and biases on financial decision-making process as well as potential impact on the overall financial markets.
FIN-841 Financial Forecasting
Take MBA-650
3.00
The nature, techniques, and problems of business forecasting. Covers indicators of business activity, short-run econometrics forecasting models, and the construction of aggregate forecasts as well as forecasts of major economic sectors. Includes long-term predictions and the application of aggregate and sector forecasts for particular industries and firms. Prerequisite: FIN 818.
FIN-845 Private Capital Markets
Take MBA-650;
3.00
This course addresses the financial needs of private businesses, focusing on the financial motives and needs of private company owners and their advisors. The course is an opportunity to present private finance as a complement to corporate finance/public finance so as to prepare students to better serve or participate in making better financing decisions in the marketplace of privately held businesses.
FIN-880 Investment Banking
MBA-650
3.00
Students analyze the main functions of investment banks such as origination, syndication, and distribution of security issues. They examine pricing of new issues and secondary offerings by investment banks, mergers and acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, valuation of closely held companies, and restructuring of distressed companies. The role of investment bankers in restructuring industry and financing governments and ethical issues faced by investment bankers will be studied.
FIN-881 Real Estate Finance
Take MBA-650;
3.00
Students are introduced to the language and principles of real estate. Includes an overview of decision-making in the field, with particular emphasis on investment and asset management.
FIN-882 Applied Risk Management
MBA-650
3.00
Students develop a framework for understanding, analyzing, and valuing modern financial instruments. Students examine several types of derivative securities and their use in managing financial risk. While the interests of issuers, intermediaries, and investors will all be considered, the primary emphasis will be on the perspective of corporate financial managers and the use of modern financial technology in the creation of value for shareholders.
FIN-884 Fixed Income Securities
Take FIN-810
3.00
The course is designed to provide information on various types of fixed income securities and markets, theories and concepts of the term structure of interest rates and valuation of fixed income securities, measurement and management of risk for traditional bonds and bonds with embedded options, understanding of the role of derivatives such as mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities, swaps and exotic options, credit analysis and bond rating, portfolio management and performance evaluation. This course is generally offered as an intensive elective.
FIN-885 Enterprise Risk Management
MBA-650
3.00
The course introduces basic corporate valuation models and shows how risk arises in firms and how managing that risk can impact the firm's valuation. It shows different ways and contracts that can be used to change the risk profile of the firm. The course will introduce methods including using derivatives to hedge, and the use of insurance and hybrid insurance contracts, and through the adjustment of the capital structure and other financial policies of the firm (dividend payout strategies, optimal compensation, etc.). Throughout the course we will use various risk metrics to demonstrate the impact the risk management strategy has on the firm's exposure to risk and the value that is created by undertaking the activity.
FIN-887 Fundamental Equity Analysis
Take FIN-810;
3
Students examine fundamental equity analysis as the convergence of a number of skills such as accounting, financial, and strategic analysis with detective work and experience. Students practice communicating and defending an argument, use a business analysis framework that helps tie together strategy and finance, practice model building and practical approach to profitability in the markets.
FIN-890 Data Analytics & Credit Risk
Take MBA-650
3.00
This course provides introduction to quantitative business analytics methods and their applications in credit risk analysis. It covers the steps involved in building, testing, and validating various credit risk models, as currently practiced in modern lending financial institutions. The course delves both into the theoretical and the practical aspects of each particular class of models, and emphasizes hands-on application of analytical tools and construction of models. Integral part of the course is the development and improvement of business analytics skills through projects using firm-, industry-, and macroeconomic data. The projects involve data preparation, analysis, and visualization, as well as result interpretation and communication. The primary computing tool for the course is R, which is widely used for data analysis in the corporate world, and is growing in popularity.
FIN-895 MSF Thesis
Complete two of the following courses: FIN-750 FIN-613 FIN-805 FIN-713
3.00
MSF Thesis work
FIN-900 Special Topics in Finance
MBA-650
3.00
An in-depth analysis of timely special issues in the field of finance. Specific topics are announced when the course is scheduled.
FIN-910 Directed Individual Study
Instructor's approval required
3.00
A student-initiated directed study project, generally for three credit hours and completed within one quarter or semester. The student and faculty advisor must concur on a written proposal and final report, and the proposal must be approved by the Office of the Dean prior to registration.
FIN-920 MSF Graduate Internship
MBA-650 and Instructor's approval. Limited to MSF students only.
3.00
Provides a hands-on, practical learning opportunity for a student-initiated experience at a domestic or international organization. Students work closely with the MSF advisor and a faculty advisor regarding career-related learning outcomes. Over the course of a semester, students collaborate with their corporate internship supervisor and complete projects related to the field of finance. Offered every semester.
MBA-740 Immerse- Travel Seminar
3.00
The Immersion course provides an opportunity for students to link their program work to hands-on experience and visits to real-life global companies. The highly experiential, intensive course combines classroom learning with a direct business and cultural experience. Students will work in teams directly for a client or several clients, solving real challenges, using their analytical skills, knowledge, and experience to develop feasible solutions. Required for all MBA students, the course will be offered globally or nationally to accommodate a variety of student needs.
Risk Management Concentration
FIN-816 Risk Management in Banking and Finance
Take MBA-650;
3.00
The course introduces students to the structure and management of international financial-services firms and methods through which financial institutions manage risk. The course discusses tools for identifying, measuring, evaluating, and managing risks, such as interest rate, credit, foreign exchange, liquidity, market, sovereign, and operational risk. The course also introduces key regulations and discusses important ethical issues in the financial-services industry.
FIN-882 Applied Risk Management
MBA-650
3.00
Students develop a framework for understanding, analyzing, and valuing modern financial instruments. Students examine several types of derivative securities and their use in managing financial risk. While the interests of issuers, intermediaries, and investors will all be considered, the primary emphasis will be on the perspective of corporate financial managers and the use of modern financial technology in the creation of value for shareholders.
Elective Course: (1 course, 3 credits)
FIN-830 Introduction to FinTech
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
This course introduces students to the history, terminology, current developments, future challenges and opportunities related to the application of technology to financial discipline. With an emphasis of case studies and guest lecture, the class will discuss algorithmic trading, predictive behavioral analysis, data-driven decision making, mobile-only services, robo advisers, machine learning, artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies, Blockchain, RegTech, InsureTech, innovations in lending, and cybersecurity. Students will be required to complete projects based on a statistical software package.
FIN-831 Portfolio Management
FIN-810
3.00
Students learn theory and techniques of scientific portfolio management, including the establishment of portfolio objectives, evaluation of portfolio performance, asset allocation strategies, and the use of derivative securities in portfolio insurance.
FIN-835 Behavioral Finance
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
The foundation of most of modern financial models and theories are based on neoclassical economists' assumption that most economic agents are rational decision makers. Behavioral finance recognizes that our cognitive biases and errors along with our individuality are not always consistent with the rationality assumption and utility maximization. This course will examine the implications of human psychology, emotions and biases on financial decision-making process as well as potential impact on the overall financial markets.
FIN-884 Fixed Income Securities
Take FIN-810
3.00
The course is designed to provide information on various types of fixed income securities and markets, theories and concepts of the term structure of interest rates and valuation of fixed income securities, measurement and management of risk for traditional bonds and bonds with embedded options, understanding of the role of derivatives such as mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities, swaps and exotic options, credit analysis and bond rating, portfolio management and performance evaluation. This course is generally offered as an intensive elective.
FIN-885 Enterprise Risk Management
MBA-650
3.00
The course introduces basic corporate valuation models and shows how risk arises in firms and how managing that risk can impact the firm's valuation. It shows different ways and contracts that can be used to change the risk profile of the firm. The course will introduce methods including using derivatives to hedge, and the use of insurance and hybrid insurance contracts, and through the adjustment of the capital structure and other financial policies of the firm (dividend payout strategies, optimal compensation, etc.). Throughout the course we will use various risk metrics to demonstrate the impact the risk management strategy has on the firm's exposure to risk and the value that is created by undertaking the activity.
FIN-890 Data Analytics & Credit Risk
Take MBA-650
3.00
This course provides introduction to quantitative business analytics methods and their applications in credit risk analysis. It covers the steps involved in building, testing, and validating various credit risk models, as currently practiced in modern lending financial institutions. The course delves both into the theoretical and the practical aspects of each particular class of models, and emphasizes hands-on application of analytical tools and construction of models. Integral part of the course is the development and improvement of business analytics skills through projects using firm-, industry-, and macroeconomic data. The projects involve data preparation, analysis, and visualization, as well as result interpretation and communication. The primary computing tool for the course is R, which is widely used for data analysis in the corporate world, and is growing in popularity.
FIN-895 MSF Thesis
Complete two of the following courses: FIN-750 FIN-613 FIN-805 FIN-713
3.00
MSF Thesis work
FIN-900 Special Topics in Finance
MBA-650
3.00
An in-depth analysis of timely special issues in the field of finance. Specific topics are announced when the course is scheduled.
FIN-920 MSF Graduate Internship
MBA-650 and Instructor's approval. Limited to MSF students only.
3.00
Provides a hands-on, practical learning opportunity for a student-initiated experience at a domestic or international organization. Students work closely with the MSF advisor and a faculty advisor regarding career-related learning outcomes. Over the course of a semester, students collaborate with their corporate internship supervisor and complete projects related to the field of finance. Offered every semester.
MBA-740 Immerse- Travel Seminar
3.00
The Immersion course provides an opportunity for students to link their program work to hands-on experience and visits to real-life global companies. The highly experiential, intensive course combines classroom learning with a direct business and cultural experience. Students will work in teams directly for a client or several clients, solving real challenges, using their analytical skills, knowledge, and experience to develop feasible solutions. Required for all MBA students, the course will be offered globally or nationally to accommodate a variety of student needs.
Approved Finance Electives
Note: Students wishing to take SBS 920 for an elective in the MSF Program must consult with the MSF Advisor for guidance on how to be considered for this option.
London Financial Services Travel Seminar is the only seminar approved as an MSF elective. Any other travel seminar requires MSF Academic Program Director approval.
FIN-801 Money & Capital Markets
MBA-650
3.00
Students analyze markets for financial assets, including the money market and various bond and stock markets. They learn determinants of the level and structure of interest rates, the Federal Reserve impact on markets, how financial institutions operate with respect to their sources and uses of funds, essentials of the regulatory structure of financial markets, transaction costs, and interrelations among markets.
FIN-812 Capital Budgeting
MBA-650
3.00
Students examine techniques and decision-making rules for the evaluation and selection of long-term investment projects by corporations and the interaction of investment and financing.
FIN-816 Risk Management in Banking and Finance
Take MBA-650;
3.00
The course introduces students to the structure and management of international financial-services firms and methods through which financial institutions manage risk. The course discusses tools for identifying, measuring, evaluating, and managing risks, such as interest rate, credit, foreign exchange, liquidity, market, sovereign, and operational risk. The course also introduces key regulations and discusses important ethical issues in the financial-services industry.
FIN-825 International Finance
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
This course covers corporate financial decisions in an international setting with a focus on foreign exchange management and capital budgeting.
FIN-830 Introduction to FinTech
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
This course introduces students to the history, terminology, current developments, future challenges and opportunities related to the application of technology to financial discipline. With an emphasis of case studies and guest lecture, the class will discuss algorithmic trading, predictive behavioral analysis, data-driven decision making, mobile-only services, robo advisers, machine learning, artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies, Blockchain, RegTech, InsureTech, innovations in lending, and cybersecurity. Students will be required to complete projects based on a statistical software package.
FIN-831 Portfolio Management
FIN-810
3.00
Students learn theory and techniques of scientific portfolio management, including the establishment of portfolio objectives, evaluation of portfolio performance, asset allocation strategies, and the use of derivative securities in portfolio insurance.
FIN-835 Behavioral Finance
MBA-650 or MSF Program Director Approval
3.00
The foundation of most of modern financial models and theories are based on neoclassical economists' assumption that most economic agents are rational decision makers. Behavioral finance recognizes that our cognitive biases and errors along with our individuality are not always consistent with the rationality assumption and utility maximization. This course will examine the implications of human psychology, emotions and biases on financial decision-making process as well as potential impact on the overall financial markets.
FIN-841 Financial Forecasting
Take MBA-650
3.00
The nature, techniques, and problems of business forecasting. Covers indicators of business activity, short-run econometrics forecasting models, and the construction of aggregate forecasts as well as forecasts of major economic sectors. Includes long-term predictions and the application of aggregate and sector forecasts for particular industries and firms. Prerequisite: FIN 818.
FIN-845 Private Capital Markets
Take MBA-650;
3.00
This course addresses the financial needs of private businesses, focusing on the financial motives and needs of private company owners and their advisors. The course is an opportunity to present private finance as a complement to corporate finance/public finance so as to prepare students to better serve or participate in making better financing decisions in the marketplace of privately held businesses.
FIN-880 Investment Banking
MBA-650
3.00
Students analyze the main functions of investment banks such as origination, syndication, and distribution of security issues. They examine pricing of new issues and secondary offerings by investment banks, mergers and acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, valuation of closely held companies, and restructuring of distressed companies. The role of investment bankers in restructuring industry and financing governments and ethical issues faced by investment bankers will be studied.
FIN-881 Real Estate Finance
Take MBA-650;
3.00
Students are introduced to the language and principles of real estate. Includes an overview of decision-making in the field, with particular emphasis on investment and asset management.
FIN-882 Applied Risk Management
MBA-650
3.00
Students develop a framework for understanding, analyzing, and valuing modern financial instruments. Students examine several types of derivative securities and their use in managing financial risk. While the interests of issuers, intermediaries, and investors will all be considered, the primary emphasis will be on the perspective of corporate financial managers and the use of modern financial technology in the creation of value for shareholders.
FIN-884 Fixed Income Securities
Take FIN-810
3.00
The course is designed to provide information on various types of fixed income securities and markets, theories and concepts of the term structure of interest rates and valuation of fixed income securities, measurement and management of risk for traditional bonds and bonds with embedded options, understanding of the role of derivatives such as mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities, swaps and exotic options, credit analysis and bond rating, portfolio management and performance evaluation. This course is generally offered as an intensive elective.
FIN-885 Enterprise Risk Management
MBA-650
3.00
The course introduces basic corporate valuation models and shows how risk arises in firms and how managing that risk can impact the firm's valuation. It shows different ways and contracts that can be used to change the risk profile of the firm. The course will introduce methods including using derivatives to hedge, and the use of insurance and hybrid insurance contracts, and through the adjustment of the capital structure and other financial policies of the firm (dividend payout strategies, optimal compensation, etc.). Throughout the course we will use various risk metrics to demonstrate the impact the risk management strategy has on the firm's exposure to risk and the value that is created by undertaking the activity.
FIN-887 Fundamental Equity Analysis
Take FIN-810;
3
Students examine fundamental equity analysis as the convergence of a number of skills such as accounting, financial, and strategic analysis with detective work and experience. Students practice communicating and defending an argument, use a business analysis framework that helps tie together strategy and finance, practice model building and practical approach to profitability in the markets.
FIN-890 Data Analytics & Credit Risk
Take MBA-650
3.00
This course provides introduction to quantitative business analytics methods and their applications in credit risk analysis. It covers the steps involved in building, testing, and validating various credit risk models, as currently practiced in modern lending financial institutions. The course delves both into the theoretical and the practical aspects of each particular class of models, and emphasizes hands-on application of analytical tools and construction of models. Integral part of the course is the development and improvement of business analytics skills through projects using firm-, industry-, and macroeconomic data. The projects involve data preparation, analysis, and visualization, as well as result interpretation and communication. The primary computing tool for the course is R, which is widely used for data analysis in the corporate world, and is growing in popularity.
FIN-895 MSF Thesis
Complete two of the following courses: FIN-750 FIN-613 FIN-805 FIN-713
3.00
MSF Thesis work
FIN-900 Special Topics in Finance
MBA-650
3.00
An in-depth analysis of timely special issues in the field of finance. Specific topics are announced when the course is scheduled.
FIN-910 Directed Individual Study
Instructor's approval required
3.00
A student-initiated directed study project, generally for three credit hours and completed within one quarter or semester. The student and faculty advisor must concur on a written proposal and final report, and the proposal must be approved by the Office of the Dean prior to registration.
FIN-920 MSF Graduate Internship
MBA-650 and Instructor's approval. Limited to MSF students only.
3.00
Provides a hands-on, practical learning opportunity for a student-initiated experience at a domestic or international organization. Students work closely with the MSF advisor and a faculty advisor regarding career-related learning outcomes. Over the course of a semester, students collaborate with their corporate internship supervisor and complete projects related to the field of finance. Offered every semester.
SBS-920 Graduate Internship
SBS-700. International students must complete 2 academic semesters before approved. Approval of Program Director/Course Coordinator and SBS Dean of Graduate Programs required.
0.00
This internship course is for students who are working in an approved graduate level internship in a company, non-profit organization, or public agency. The internship is described in a written proposal agreed upon by the company sponsor and intern. The internship must be approved by the International Student Services Office (international students only), Program Director/Course Coordinator and SBS Dean of Graduate Programs. The internship is intended for international students who wish to participate in a practical, degree related experience. This course does not count toward a degree. International students must receive Curricular Practical Training (CPT) approval with the International Student Services Office PRIOR to beginning an internship.
MBA-740 Immerse- Travel Seminar
3.00
The Immersion course provides an opportunity for students to link their program work to hands-on experience and visits to real-life global companies. The highly experiential, intensive course combines classroom learning with a direct business and cultural experience. Students will work in teams directly for a client or several clients, solving real challenges, using their analytical skills, knowledge, and experience to develop feasible solutions. Required for all MBA students, the course will be offered globally or nationally to accommodate a variety of student needs.
Waiver Policy
To waive an MSF prerequisite course a student must successfully complete equivalent coursework at the undergraduate/graduate level in the seven (7) years prior to the MSBA/MSF matriculation, with a grade of "B" or better, and provide official transcripts (with English translations, if applicable).
For FIN and ISOM core courses to be considered for substitution, a student must successfully complete equivalent academic coursework at the graduate level in the seven (7) years prior to the MSBA/MSF matriculation, with a grade of "B" or better, and provide official transcripts (with English translations, if applicable).
All waiver requests are evaluated upon a student's acceptance into the MSBA/MSF Program and are waived during the student's first semester. Students may also elect to take a proficiency exam, for a fee, to gain a waiver for the prerequisite courses. Proficiency exams must be taken in the first semester and are administered on the Boston campus.
All MSBA/MSF students must complete a minimum of 53 graduate credits in the Sawyer Business School.
Transfer Policy
Transfer credits must have an earned grade of "B" or better and have been taken within the seven (7) years prior to entering the Suffolk MSBA/MSF program. However, at the discretion of the MSF program director, finance core courses may not be transferred if the subject material has changed significantly since completion. A maximum of six (6) credits may be considered for a transfer.
Students Who Leave Boston Before Their Degree is Complete
Occasionally, Suffolk MSBA/MSF students must leave the Boston area having not yet completed their degree. The Business School has several options available to insure completion of the Suffolk MSBA/MSF. You may be able to transfer six (6) credits of elective courses from an AACSB-accredited program close to your new place of residence. Courses must be preĀ-approved by Suffolk's Assistant Dean of Graduate Programs and have a grade of "B" or better.
Students who leave the area may also be able to complete the MSBA (all or a portion) of their Suffolk MSBA/MSF on a part time basis online. The MSF portion of the degree is not available online.