Enrolling in a graduate program is a big step in most people's lives, and it is normal to have more than a few questions about taking this step. Below are answers to several commonly asked questions that applicants have about the Master of Science in Mathematical Finance program. We have grouped these questions by subject matter below.

Admissions
 

1.  Do I have to have an undergraduate math degree to enter the M.S. in Mathematical Finance program?

No you do not. We accept students with a variety of undergraduate majors, including finance, mathematics, economics, statistics, engineering, accounting, actuarial science, computer science, and others.
 

2.  Are students admitted to the program in every semester?

We admit students to the program in both the fall and spring semesters. Students may also be admitted to the program in the summer semesters, but only to take required prerequisite courses.
 

3.  I was an undergraduate finance or economics major, and was only required to take one business calculus class, can I still get into this program?

Yes you can, but you will have to satisfy take several prerequisite mathematics courses prior to beginning your advanced mathematics courses. This will included an approved sequence in differential and integral calculus, and courses in linear algebra and statistics. These courses will be in addition to the thirty (30) hours of advanced coursework required for the degree.
 

4.  Do you accept the GMAT or the GRE?

We will accept either test, although in general we would prefer to get GRE scores.  We do not require any GRE subject tests.
 

M.S. in Mathematical Finance or MBA?
 

1.  What is the difference between an M.S. in Mathematical Finance and an MBA degree?

The M.S. in Mathematical Finance is a highly specialized degree that focuses only on the application of mathematics to finance. The MBA is a more general business degree. For a finance concentration in an MBA you would typically take between three and five finance courses, along with courses in other fields such as management and marketing. With the M.S. in Mathematical Finance, every course is related to finance.
 

2.  Who should get an M.S. in Mathematical Finance?

A person that is interested in a highly specialized degree and that knows that they want to work in the finance industry.
 

3.  Is it possible to earn both the MBA and the M.S. in Mathematical Finance degree?

Yes, it is possible to do so, but you must declare that you wish to do this when you apply to UNC Charlotte, you must be admitted to both programs, and you must set up a program of study in your first semester at  UNC Charlotte that will allow you to do this. You may count some courses from economics and finance toward both degrees, but the number of such courses will depend upon your individual circumstances.
 

4.  I plan to eventually pursue a Ph.D. in Finance. Is the M.S. in Mathematical Finance a good starting point?

Yes, the M.S. in Mathematical Finance is an excellent way to begin the pursuit of a Ph.D. in finance.
 

Enrollment and Assistantships
 

1.  Can I attend the program part-time?

Yes, we do admit part-time students. We intend to offer classes both in the evening and in the day, although which courses are offered at which time will vary by semester and year. If you wish to attend part time, we will work with you to put together a schedule that will allow you to take courses in the evening. 
 

2.  Can I take any core MAFI courses online?

We currently do not offer any core MAFI courses online.

3.  Are there graduate assistantships available for students in the program?

There are usually a limited number of assistantships available for very well qualified, full-time students in the program. The exact number of assistantships varies from year to year depending upon the budget and other funding sources.