COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Applied Finance (MSAF) program at Pepperdine Graziadio Business School is a 41-unit degree designed to provide a comprehensive and flexible education in finance. The curriculum is built around 33 units of core coursework that establish a strong foundation in essential areas such as financial accounting and analysis, corporate finance, investments and portfolio management, economics, financial markets, and quantitative methods including econometric modeling. This core ensures that students develop both analytical and technical expertise required to succeed in modern financial environments. In addition to the core, students complete 8 units of electives, allowing them to tailor their academic experience by exploring advanced topics such as business valuation, equity analysis, fixed income, capital markets, and investment banking.The program also includes a career seminar that supports professional development through career preparation, networking strategies, and industry insights, helping students transition effectively into the workforce. An optional internship practicum provides the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a real-world setting, further enhancing practical skills before graduation. To align with individual career goals, students can choose between two specializations: Financial Management or Investments. The Financial Management track focuses on corporate finance, preparing students for roles in financial planning, analysis, and organizational decision-making. The Investments track emphasizes valuation, equity analysis, and capital markets, making it ideal for careers in investment banking and asset management while also supporting preparation for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. Overall, the program combines rigorous academics, flexibility, and practical experience to prepare graduates for success in the finance industry.