University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

This master’s combines core finance theory with applied financial management and market-focused practicum. Typical core subjects cover corporate finance, investments and portfolio management, fixed income and derivatives, financial statement analysis, and quantitative methods for finance. You will also study financial modelling and valuation techniques, risk management, and ethical and regulatory issues in financial services.

The programme is usually structured around a set of required core courses plus elective options. Electives allow specialisation in areas such as corporate treasury, asset management, financial technology (fintech), real estate finance, and international finance. Most students complete a capstone project, applied practicum or consulting engagement with a local firm, which integrates classroom learning with real-world financial problems.

• Corporate Finance and Valuation
• Investments and Portfolio Management
• Fixed Income and Derivative Securities
• Financial Modelling and Quantitative Methods
• Risk Management and Financial Regulation
• Financial Statement Analysis
• Capstone or Practicum project

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree, preferably with coursework in quantitative subjects such as economics, finance, mathematics, engineering or related fields. Admission often considers the overall academic record, work experience in finance or related sectors, and evidence of quantitative ability.

Typical application materials include an academic transcript, a current CV or résumé, a personal statement outlining career goals and fit with the programme, and at least one academic or professional reference. Some applicants may be asked to submit GMAT or GRE scores; these tests may be optional or waived in cases where the applicant demonstrates relevant graduate-level quantitative preparation or substantial professional experience. International applicants must provide evidence of English language proficiency through accepted tests unless exempt.

Career prospects

Graduates progress into a wide range of roles across financial services and corporate finance. Common entry and mid-level positions include financial analyst, investment analyst, portfolio manager, risk analyst, treasury analyst, corporate finance associate and financial consultant. Alumni also move into specialised areas such as asset management, investment banking, wealth management, fintech and real estate finance. Because the university is located in a Pacific business hub, graduates frequently find opportunities with regional banks, asset managers, consulting firms, multinational corporations and public-sector organisations operating across the Asia–Pacific.

Many students use the practicum or capstone placement to build employer contacts and gain practical experience that supports transition into full-time roles. Those interested in research or academic careers may progress to doctoral study in finance or related disciplines.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaii at Manoa’s Shidler College of Business combines Pacific-region relevance with internationally informed finance teaching. Studying in Honolulu offers proximity to Asia–Pacific markets and a diverse, multicultural business environment that is especially useful for students seeking careers that bridge US and Asia–Pacific financial activity.

Students benefit from faculty with applied research and industry experience, connections with local and regional financial institutions, and opportunities for internships or practicum projects with banks, asset managers and corporations based in Hawai‘i. The campus also provides access to research centres and events that focus on international finance, Asia–Pacific trade and sustainable finance—areas of growing importance to employers.

Overall, the programme is well suited to candidates seeking a technically solid, practice-oriented finance education with strong links to regional markets and an emphasis on applied outcomes.