Fintech Master’s Degree Programs

A fintech master’s degree is a great way to pursue exciting emerging careers at the intersection of technology and finance. This guide introduces what pursuing a master’s degree in fintech looks like and covers where to get started. 

Can you imagine not being able to use an app on your phone to transfer money from one bank account to another to pay your rent or mortgage on time? Or picture this: You’re out to dinner with your friends, the bill comes, and you realize you forgot your wallet at home. Instead of signing into Venmo right then and there, you write an IOU for $38 like it’s 1997.

That’s where we would be today if it weren’t for the advancements in financial technology or fintech. Fintech is continuously developing new and innovative ways to handle and predict finances for consumers and businesses.  

The Best Master’s in Fintech Programs for 2024

1. Case Western Reserve University

   Cleveland, Ohio

   
   Program: Master of Science in FinTech
   Tuition: $54,870
   Credits: 30
   Cost per credit: $1,829
   GMAT required: Required
   Delivery Method: Campus
   Learn more: Program details

2. Duke University

   Durham, North Carolina

   
   Program: Financial Technology Master of Engineering
   Tuition: $95,280
   Credits: 30
   Cost per credit: $3,176
   Delivery Method: Campus & online
   Learn more: Program details

3. Georgetown University

   Washington D.C.

   
   Program: Master's in Technology Management
   Tuition: $53,424
   Credits: 36
   Cost per credit: $1,484
   GMAT required: Not required
   Delivery Method: Online
   Learn more: Program details

4. New Jersey City University

   New Jersey

   
   Program: Master of Science in Financial Technology
   Tuition: $24,030 in state | $38,250 out of state
   Credits: 30
   Cost per credit: $801in state | $1,275 out of state
   GMAT required: Required
   Delivery Method: Campus
   Learn more: Program details

5. Santa Clara University

   Santa Clara, California

   
   Program: Financial Analytics
   Tuition: $50,616
   Credits: 36
   Cost per credit: $1,406
   Delivery Method: Campus
   Learn more: Program details

6. Stevens Institute of Technology

   Haboken, New Jersey

   
   Program: Financial Technology
   Tuition: $55,920
   Credits: 30
   Cost per credit: $1,864
   GMAT required: Required
   Delivery Method: Campus & online
   Learn more: Program details

7. The University of Texas at Dallas

   Richardson, Texas

   
   Program: Master of Science in Financial Technology & Analytics
   Tuition: $45,000
   Credits: 36
   Cost per credit: $1,250
   GMAT required: Required
   Delivery Method: Campus & online
   Learn more: Program details

8. University of Central Florida

   Orange County, Florida

   
   Program: Master of Science in FinTech
   Tuition: $11,100 in state | $35,820 out of state
   Credits: 30
   Cost per credit: $370 in state | $1,194 out of state
   GMAT required: Required
   Delivery Method: Campus & online
   Learn more: Program details

9. University of Connecticut

   Storrs, Connecticut

   
   Program: Master of Science in Financial Technology
   Tuition: $54,000
   Credits: 36
   Cost per credit: $1,500
   Delivery Method: Campus & online
   Learn more: Program details

10. University of New Haven

    West Haven, Connecticut

    
    Program: Master of Science in Finance
    Tuition: $33,660
    Credits: 33
    Cost per credit: $1,020
    GMAT required: Required
    Delivery Method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

What is a Master’s in Fintech?

A master’s degree in fintech is an excellent opportunity to get a head start in the financial services industry. Students will receive the tools and knowledge to focus on the growing use of technology in finance and how to leverage those tools and convert them into solutions for businesses and clients.

Although they vary from institution to institution, master’s courses include the following:

• digital banking and finance
• electronic payments
• online lending
• peer-to-peer lending
• crowdfunding
• investments and securities trading
• digital financial management

The sky’s the limit with financial technology, and people working to build a career in the industry are introducing themselves to a field that is in high demand and constantly evolving. With the financial services industry focusing on convenience and transparency, personal banking is becoming less of a headache for the everyday person. 

Professionals pursuing a career in fintech research new, groundbreaking ideas to make financial services and personal banking easier and more convenient.

Online Fintech Master’s Programs

In recent years, earning an online master’s degree online has become more of a reality. With the flexibility, ease, and convenience online courses provide, earning a master’s degree is more common.

Many institutions offer on-campus, online, or even hybrid options for students. Though many schools offer online master’s fintech programs, not all do. We’ll highlight a few later in the article. 

Some may argue that earning a master’s degree online is more accessible than a traditional on-campus or in-classroom program. Though it may be easier for some, the course curriculum and workload are the same. The only difference between the two is the physical setting in which the course takes place.

In both circumstances, the student studies the same course content and material. Regardless of where or how the courses are structured, students still have to put the work in to participate, complete assignments, and pass exams.

In today’s digital age, an online program is respected as much as a traditional on-site program. Online courses give students an added advantage after they receive their degree. These advantages include:

Experience with digital fintech tools: Since courses are entirely online, students will have the opportunity to learn the digital tools and learn how to apply them in their coursework. 

Independent thinking and research: By studying coursework online, students don’t have the opportunity to work and collaborate with peers and professors. Therefore, they must learn to communicate digitally and learn and do research on their own. 

Communication skills: Not being able to raise your hand and ask the professor a question or having the option to check with your neighbor about something can make learning difficult for some students. Online learning gives the student the skills to develop well-thought-out responses, questions, or opinions.

Responsibility balance: Many students who opt for an online program often have other responsibilities. Since online courses are usually self-paced, students must learn to balance work, life, and school responsibilities. 

With all this in mind, it is still important to ensure that the program you are enrolling in is with an accredited institution. To enhance your chances for success, be sure to research the school you wish to attend.

Overview of a Master’s in Fintech Programs

The course curriculum consists of a full introduction to financial technology, specifically today’s (and tomorrow’s) way of banking. Along with other types of financial management that can be delivered via computer or mobile app, students earning a master’s in fintech can expect to learn the ins and outs of all the different areas of the industry, including:

• Digital banking and finance
• Electronic payments
• Online lending
• Peer-to-peer lending
• Crowdfunding
• Investments and securities trading

Projects

Since fintech has changed drastically over the years, many institutions require their students to complete a series of projects to explore the field more independently. A few topics that may be researched in these projects include:

• Digital Transformation and Financial Services
• Digital Payments and Marketplace Lending
• Personal Banking and AI
• Insurtech and Real Estate Tech
• Blockchain and Cryptocurrency
• Financial Regulation

Research

Financial technology is a constantly evolving field. Today’s students will introduce us to the technology of tomorrow. While studying for their Master’s degree, students will be required to do extensive research to discover new ways to impact the world of business and the banking industry.

Internships/Fieldwork

An important part of the program’s curriculum is to give the students first-hand work experience in the field. Along with the projects, weekly assignments, and exams, students will be required to complete internships and fieldwork. Along with the actual work experience, there are many benefits of students participating in internships and fieldwork.

Here are some benefits of doing an internship or fieldwork:

• First-hand perspective of the day-to-day responsibilities
• Gain professional work experience
• Build skills from exposure to work profile
• Potentially convert an internship into a pre-placement offer
• Network with and learn from other fintech professionals

Cost, Financial Aid, and Scholarships

One of the most intimidating components of considering any higher education degree program is, “How much is a master’s in fintech going to cost?” and rightfully so. 

Since the cost of a degree can vary significantly, such as institution, program type, enrollment status, and whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student, it’s challenging to provide an accurate estimate. It’s safe to assume the average tuition cost ranges between $10,000 to $30,000 per year for a master’s in fintech.

If those numbers strike fear in your heart, here’s some good news! You may not have to pay 100 percent of those costs out of pocket. There are many different options, such as financial aid, student loans, and scholarships, that you may qualify for.

School-based scholarships and grants: Most institutions offer scholarships or grants that you can apply for to get a financial break. These usually depend on the student’s financial needs or previous accomplishments. 

Assistantships and work-study programs: Work-study programs are a great way for students to work on campus to contribute to their tuition. This mainly applies to full-time and part-time students who have some physical presence on campus.

Third-party or private scholarships: Unlike the institution-offered scholarships and grants we previously mentioned, these are distributed by outside organizations that offer scholarship programs for specific groups, interests, or achievements in areas such as sports, theater, music, or math clubs. Other organizations offer scholarships for single and working parents.

Company sponsorship: For students currently employed full-time for a company, consider participating in a tuition reimbursement program.

Federal student aid: Though most must be repaid over time, federal student aid typically has varying interest rates and repayment terms. They are still great options for those who don’t have money on hand but can afford to pay for their education in installments over time. 

Master’s in Fintech Career Outlook

As we’ve mentioned throughout this article, the financial technology industry is only expected to grow over the coming decades. With a master’s in fintech, you can explore the following roles and career paths with their average salaries:

• Blockchain developer – $111,845
• Financial analyst – $88,111
• Product manager – $127,192
• Compliance expert – $57,330
• Cybersecurity analyst – $99,730

Frequently Asked Questions

Master’s in Fintech School Listings

1. Duke University

   Durham, North Carolina

   
   Program: Master of Engineering in Financial Technology (FinTech)
   Delivery method: Online & campus
   Total tuition: $130,230
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $4,341
   Credits: 30
   GRE requirement: Required
   Learn more: Program details

2. Fairfield University

   Fairfield, Connecticut

   
   Program: MS Financial Technology
   Delivery method: Online & hybrid
   Total tuition: $35,850
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,195
   Credits: 30
   GRE requirement: Not required
   Learn more: Program details

3. Illinois Institute of Technology

   Chicago, Illinois

   
   Program: Master of Financial Technology
   Delivery method: Campus
   Total tuition: $64,080
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $2,136
   Credits: 30
   GRE requirement: Required
   Learn more: Program details

4. Keiser University

   Fort Lauderdale, Florida

   
   Program: Financial Technology, MS
   Delivery method: Online & campus
   Total tuition: $27,060
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $902
   Credits: 30
   GRE requirement: Required
   Learn more: Program details

5. Kennesaw State University

   Kennesaw, Georgia

   
   Program: Master of Science in Digital Financial Technologies (Fintech)
   Delivery method: Online
   Total tuition: $9,090 in-state | $33,570 out-of-state
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $303 in-state | $1,119 out-of-state
   Credits: 30
   GRE requirement: Not required
   Learn more: Program details

6. New Jersey City University

   Jersey City, New Jersey

   
   Program: Master of Science in Financial Technology
   Delivery method: Campus
   Total tuition: $25,500
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $850
   Credits: 30
   GRE requirement: Required
   Learn more: Program details

7. Santa Clara University

   Santa Clara, California

   
   Program: MS in Finance & Analytics
   Delivery method: Online & campus
   Total tuition: $52,632
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,462
   Credits: 36
   GRE requirement: Required
   Learn more: Program details

8. Seton Hall University

   South Orange, New Jersey

   
   Program: M.S. in Financial Technology and Analytics (MFTA)
   Delivery method: Online & campus
   Total tuition: $53,200
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,520
   Credits: 35
   GRE requirement: Required
   Learn more: Program details

9. Stevens Institute of Technology

   Haboken, New Jersey

   
   Program: Financial Technology and Analytics Master's Degree
   Delivery method: Online & campus
   Total tuition: $88,980
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $2,966
   Credits: 30
   GRE requirement: Required
   Learn more: Program details

10. The University of Texas at Dallas

    Richardson, Texas

    
    Program: Master of Science in Financial Technology & Analytics
    Delivery method: Online & campus
    Total tuition: $68,616 in-state | $101,412 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,906 in-state | $2,817 out-of-state
    Credits: 36
    GRE requirement: Required
    Learn more: Program details

11. University of Central Florida

    Orange County, Florida

    
    Program: Master of Science in FinTech
    Delivery method: Online & campus
    Total tuition: $11,100 in-state | $35,820 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $370 in-state | $1,194 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Required
    Learn more: Program details

12. University of Connecticut

    Storrs, Connecticut

    
    Program: Master of Science in Financial Technology
    Delivery method: Online & campus
    Total tuition: $54,000
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,500
    Credits: 36
    GRE requirement: Required
    Learn more: Program details

13. University of Missouri - St. Louis

    St. Louis, Missouri

    
    Program: Master’s in Fintech
    Delivery method: Online & hybrid
    Total tuition: $48,420 in-state | $101,700 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,614 in-state | $3,390 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Not required
    Learn more: Program details

14. University of New Haven

    West Haven, Connecticut

    
    Program: M.S. in Finance & Financial Analytics
    Delivery method: Campus
    Total tuition: $34,815
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,055
    Credits: 33
    GRE requirement: Required
    Learn more: Program details

15. University of North Florida

    Jacksonville, Florida

    
    Program: Master of Science in FinTech (MSFinTech)
    Delivery method: Online & campus
    Total tuition: $17,790 in-state | $37,590 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $593 in-state | $1,253 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Required
    Learn more: Program details

16. Wake Forest University

    Winston-Salem, North Carolina

    
    Program: Masters of Financial Technology and Analytics
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $37,620
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,254
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Required
    Learn more: Program details

17. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

    Worcester, Massachusetts

    
    Program: Master's in Financial Technology (FinTech)
    Delivery method: Online & campus
    Total tuition: $34,650
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,050
    Credits: 33
    GRE requirement: Not required
    Learn more: Program details

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