Masters of Science in Financial Services | Goals

The goal of the MSFS graduate degree program is to provide the student with advanced estate, financial and tax planning knowledge. Before a degree is awarded, candidates must show a mastery of the learning objectives presented within each completed course. In order to demonstrate this competence, students must pass a series of examinations, culminating in a financial planning capstone course. MSFS graduates will be proficient in the following areas:

 

Topical Knowledge

Candidates will acquire fundamental knowledge of a wide range of topics, ideas and theories. These basics will form a foundation from which additional skill sets are to be acquired and improved upon.

Meaningful Analysis

Students will be able to spot issues as well as provide general and specific recommendations that can be defended regardless of expected or unexpected events. Candidates will be able to turn goals into specific objectives that can be prioritized. Students will gain insight into the probabilities of obtaining such objectives as well as different methodologies than can be utilized.

Strategies

Candidates will have a wide range of knowledge to draw upon, thereby being able to list, address and comment upon each of several possible solutions. Such recommended courses of action will address applicable time constraints, preferences, risks, statistical measurements, tax issues, titling and future ownership.

Presentation

Students will acquire communication skills based upon an effective and logical flow of information that is comprehensive, easy to follow and understand. Students will be able to defend suggested courses of action and be able to list the strengths and weaknesses of such recommendations.

Implementation and Review

Candidates will develop methods and timing of implementation. Recommended actions shall be defendable based upon theory as well as practical knowledge gained during the coursework.

Advancement

Program graduates are expected to have gained the necessary tools for lifetime learning and to share such knowledge with others. Students will learn that much of the information gained is not static and requires continuous study long after the granting of a degree.