Frequently Asked Questions for the MFE

General

Is the GRE or GMAT required?
No.

How long does it take to complete the program?
Many students complete the degree in one full academic year (Fall and Spring). The program is 30 credit hours of graduate study.

Is it possible to do an internship during the program?
The two-semester program coursework is taught sequentially (Fall and Spring) and is not conducive for traditional internships.

When is the MFE Program start date?
The MFE program begins in the middle of August, three weeks before the beginning of the fall semester.

Can students complete the MFE program part-time or via distance learning?
No, The MFE is only offered full-time on the USU campus in Logan, Utah.

Do you accept transfer students?
Yes, however, given the length of the program and the program of study, transfers would be unusual and evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Do you require work experience?
Industry or academic work experience would add to an applicant’s suitability for the program. However, prior work experience is not required.

Will the MFE help prepare me for taking the CFA examination(s)?
The curriculum in the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) specialization is consistent with the CFA chartering process. Students may be prepared to take the CFA Level I exam upon graduation.

Will the MFE help prepare me for taking the CFP examination?
The curriculum in the Personal Financial Planning (PFP) specialization is consistent with the CFP preparation process. Students may be prepared to take the CFP exam upon graduation.

What kind of “major” background does the program prefer?
A bachelor’s degree with intermediate coursework in economics, econometrics or statistics, corporate finance, and mathematical economics/calculus. The program is well suited to students with undergraduate degrees in Business, Finance, and Economics. Applicants with other undergraduate majors are given full consideration.

Are summer classes required?
No. However, just prior to Fall Semester classes, a summer Foundations in Financial Economics course is taught on campus for two weeks every. This preparation course is required.

Can an MFE student start in the Spring semester?
No. The Program of Study is taught sequentially, beginning each Fall Semester

International Students

Is the MFE program STEM?
Yes.

What if my transcript is not in English?
Transcripts must be in English for application to be considered.

If I have an international transcript, do I need to have an outside credential service evaluate it and provide you with a report?
No. However, transcripts must be in English.

One of my recommenders doesn’t speak or write in English. Is it okay if they compose the letter in a foreign language and I translate it into English?
Letters of recommendation must be in English and are not to be handled by students in anyway. Only electronic copies will be accepted.

Can the TOEFL requirement be waived?
If you have an undergraduate degree, with attendance of at least two years, from an institution in one of these countries in which English is the language of instruction (United States, Canada (except Quebec), United Kingdom, New Zealand or Australia), you will not be required to provide additional evidence of English proficiency.