FAQs

What’s the difference between the Master of Finance and the MBA in Finance?

The MFin is a 16-month, course-based, technical finance degree aimed at quantitatively strong candidates seeking roles that require advanced analytics, modeling, and empirical methods. An MBA (Finance) is broader, management-oriented, and less technical.

What makes Haskayne’s Master of Finance unique?

It’s Western Canada’s only dedicated Master of Finance program, delivered in 16 continuous months with intensive, applied coursework, access to Mathison Hall facilities, industry-expert instructors for applied topics, and a built-in Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) choice.

What kind of background is best suited for this program?

Recent grads or early-career professionals from math, statistics, computer science, economics, or quantitative business (e.g., BCom Finance). Candidates pursuing the CFA may find it a great fit.

What can I expect from the classroom experience?

Half-day classes, team projects, and hands-on applications. Spring/Summer courses run in two-week ‘immersive’ blocks (with one-week gaps), enabling deep dives and access to industry sessionals.

How technical and quantitative is the program?

This program is very technically focused. You’ll cover asset pricing, investments, derivatives, econometrics, and corporate finance on top of a quantitative foundations block week. Admission requires 3 prior university level (9 credits total) quant courses.

What kinds of programming or software skills will I learn?

You’ll apply programming skills for econometrics, time-series modeling, and back-testing strategies (e.g., in Financial Econometrics and Quantitative Investing). You’ll also work with professional market data platforms available through Haskayne’s lab resources.

How will the Master of Finance impact my career?

It builds in-demand quantitative depth plus professional development through a Work-Integrated Learning component, helping you compete for technical roles in investment banking, asset management, trading/research, and risk management.

What career paths are available after completing the program?

• Investment & Asset Management (hedge funds, family offices, pension funds)
• Quantitative Trading & Research
• Algorithmic & High-Frequency Trading
• Financial Risk Management
• Private Equity & Venture Capital Analysis
• Investment & Corporate Banking
• Corporate Development Advisory

Graduates are well-positioned for CFA exams and, later, MBA/EMBA/DBA or PhD.

How many students are typically in a cohort?

Typically you can expect between 30 – 50 students per cohort.

What networking opportunities are available to MFin students?

Professional Development I & II include networking and interview practice; industry experts teach applied courses; and Work-Integrated Learning (internships or research projects) that connects you directly with employers.

Can I work while completing the program?

The program is full-time and intensive. Limited part-time work may be possible, but international students must follow study/work-permit rules.

How long does the Master of Finance program take to complete?

16 months, full-time, with no scheduled break.

What is the typical weekly time commitment?

Expect a full-time graduate workload: half-day classes plus substantial hours for assignments, projects, and networking activities.

What is the capstone or work-integrated learning project?

Choose one:

• Professional Internship in Finance (paid) — culminates in a professional report.
• Research Consulting Project — applied research on a real finance problem; $3,000 scholarship helps offset costs.

Do I need an undergraduate degree in finance or business to apply?

No. A 4-year bachelor’s degree is required; quantitative fields are ideal. 3 years Bachelors degrees may be considered.

What quantitative background is required?

At least three semester-long courses (9 Credits in total) across calculus, statistics, econometrics, quantitative economics, linear algebra, probability, or similar.

Do I need to complete the GMAT or GRE?

Yes—GMAT (recommended >600) or GRE equivalent.

Can the GMAT/GRE requirement be waived?

Waivers may be granted in certain cases. Connect with a recruitment specialist to learn more.

What is the application deadline?

Deadlines are Feb 1^st for International Students and June 1^st for Domestic.

Do I need work experience to apply?

No. Typical entrants have 0–2 years of experience; early-career professionals are welcome.

Is an interview required?

Candidates may be interviewed to determine their suitability for the program.

What is the tuition for the MFin program?

Approx. $39,459 (Domestic); $64,274 (International) for the full program (subject to change).

What additional costs should I budget for on top of tuition and fees?

Plan for living expenses, technology/laptop, transportation, and standard university fees. The tuition covers books/cases/software.

Are scholarships available for MFin students?

$310,000 in MFin scholarships available, up to $20k available per student.
Connect with an advisor to learn more - and apply early!

Can international students apply to the MFin program?

Yes. Apply for a study permit and work permit together (WIL requires a ‘Co-op’ work permit).

What English proficiency tests are accepted?

TOEFL iBT, IELTS, CAEL, or Academic Communication Certificate (A-).

What are the minimum English test scores required?

TOEFL 92 (no section less than 20), IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0), CAEL 70.

Where can I find information on international admission requirements?

See UCalgary Future Students—International for complete details.

Can I enter the MFin program directly from my undergraduate degree?

Yes—students may apply straight from undergrad.

Does the MFin prepare me for the CFA designation?

Yes—students are thoroughly prepared to tackle all three CFA exam levels.

Does the MFin prepare me for further graduate studies, such as a PhD in finance?

Yes. Graduates gain the theory, econometrics, and research exposure that provide a solid base for a PhD (with appropriate research interests and preparation).