Finance MBA

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Drexel University

Program Overview

Drexel University's Finance MBA prepares students to understand financial markets, evaluate investment opportunities, and make strategic financial decisions within organisations. The programme combines core MBA subjects with specialised finance electives, developing knowledge of corporate finance, capital allocation, investment analysis, risk management, and the relationship between financial risk and return.

Curriculum Structure

The programme consists of ten core MBA courses, three finance major electives, one experiential learning course, and free electives. Students complete 48 quarter credits and can follow different study plans, including 12-, 15-, and 18-month options or a part-time schedule.

Year 1: Students develop a foundation in business management, financial reporting, analytics, economics, leadership, marketing, and operations. Core courses include Essentials of Financial Reporting, Business Analytics for Managers, Strategic Career Management and Professional Development, Leading in Dynamic Environments: A Personal, Relational, and Strategic Approach, Analyzing Legal Options in Decision-Making, Corporate Financial Management, Marketing Strategy and Planning, Operations and Supply Chain Management, Managerial Economics, and Strategic Management.

Year 2: Students deepen their finance expertise by selecting three graduate-level finance electives numbered 602–699. Depending on availability and their interests, they can explore subjects such as Advanced Financial Management, Business Valuation, investment analysis, financial markets, and risk management. They also complete free electives and an experiential requirement, with options such as Graduate Internship, Business Consulting, International Business Seminar and Residency, or MBA Capstone.

The year-by-year structure is illustrative and based on the catalogue's sample study plans. The actual course sequence depends on the selected study plan and elective choices.

Focus Areas

Corporate Finance, Financial Management, Investment Analysis, Capital Allocation, Financial Markets, Risk Management, Portfolio Management, Business Valuation, Financial Planning, Capital Budgeting, Debt and Equity Financing, Financial Economics, Business Analytics, Strategic Management, Investment Decision-Making.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates are prepared to evaluate corporate investment opportunities using financial techniques such as net present value and internal rate of return analysis. They develop an understanding of financing alternatives, including debt and equity financing, and learn to assess the relationship between financial risk and return. The programme also builds skills in capital allocation, financial decision-making, investment evaluation, risk management, and business strategy.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The MBA is offered through Bennett S. LeBow College of Business, which holds AACSB International accreditation. In July 2025, LeBow extended its AACSB accreditation for another six years. The Finance concentration is also STEM-designated, reflecting its quantitative and analytical focus.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Drexel LeBow reports that 83.33% of Full-Time MBA students who reported employment plans received at least one job offer within three months of graduation. The average annual salary among Full-Time MBA graduates who reported salary data was $73,556 for the Class of 2024–2025. These figures represent the overall Full-Time MBA cohort and are not specific to the Finance concentration.

Potential Career Opportunities: Financial Analyst, Corporate Finance Manager, Investment Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Financial Planning Manager, Risk Analyst, Investment Banking Associate, Treasury Manager, Business Valuation Analyst, Credit Analyst, Financial Consultant, Finance Manager.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Drexel University, the MBA in Finance program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience that translates theory into practice. Through a combination of innovative coursework, collaborative projects, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, students develop the practical skills necessary to excel in the finance industry. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage with real-world financial challenges and gain insights from industry professionals.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the MBA Finance program at Drexel:

- Drexel’s LeBow College of Business: Offers a robust curriculum that integrates finance theory with practical applications, ensuring students are well-prepared for the workforce.
- Co-op Program: Drexel’s renowned cooperative education program allows students to gain valuable work experience while earning their degree, with opportunities at leading financial firms.
- Finance Labs: Access to specialized finance labs equipped with Bloomberg terminals and other financial software, enabling students to analyze market data and trends in real-time.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects that simulate real-world finance scenarios, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills essential for success in the industry.
- Internships: Opportunities to intern with top companies in the finance sector, providing students with hands-on experience and networking opportunities.
- Field Trips: Visits to financial institutions and corporate offices, offering students a behind-the-scenes look at the finance industry and the chance to connect with professionals.
- Research Facilities: Access to dedicated research centers and libraries, where students can conduct in-depth studies and access a wealth of financial resources.
- Networking Events: Regular events and workshops featuring industry leaders, allowing students to build connections and gain insights into the finance field.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic experience but also prepare you for a successful career in finance.

Consider applying to the MBA Finance program at Drexel University to take advantage of these unique opportunities and set yourself up for a successful future in finance!

Progression & Future Opportunities

Drexel University's MBA in Finance program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the competitive finance sector. Alumni have successfully transitioned into roles such as Financial Analyst, Investment Banker, and Risk Manager, showcasing the program's effectiveness in preparing students for high-demand positions. The strong emphasis on practical experience and industry connections enhances career readiness:

- University Services: Drexel offers a robust Career Services Center that provides personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation. Additionally, the co-op program allows students to gain real-world experience while studying, making them more attractive to employers.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of Drexel MBA graduates secure employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $85,000, depending on the role and industry.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Drexel has established partnerships with leading financial institutions and corporations, such as JPMorgan Chase and Vanguard, providing students with networking opportunities and potential internships that can lead to full-time positions.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MBA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a distinction held by only 5% of business schools worldwide, ensuring that your degree holds significant value in the job market.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates of the MBA in Finance program report high levels of job satisfaction and career advancement, with many moving into leadership roles within just a few years of completing their degree.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MBA in Finance, students have the opportunity to pursue further studies, such as a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) or specialized certifications like Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Certified Financial Planner (CFP). These advanced qualifications can enhance expertise and open doors to even higher-level positions in academia or specialized finance sectors.

Choosing Drexel for your MBA in Finance not only sets you up for immediate success but also lays a strong foundation for your future academic and professional endeavors.