Continuous innovation in curriculum and success among alumni are just a few reasons why Fisher’s Specialized Master in Finance (SMF) program continues to earn worldwide recognition. 

In 2020 rankings compiled and released by the Financial Times, the SMF program was among the top 55 master of finance programs around the world — the fourth consecutive year the program has cracked the top 55 globally. 

“We are excited to be part of this ranking, as it reflects the rigorous academic training and multiple opportunities for action-based learning through faculty-designed and real-client projects, case competitions, and exposure to experienced industry professionals provided to SMF students in a mid-size program,” said George Pinteris, director of the SMF program.  

Additional highlights from the Financial Times rankings include the SMF’s standing as the eighth-best master of finance program in the U.S. and the fourth-best among public universities. Domestically, Fisher was ranked: 

• No. 5 for salary percentage increase and No. 1 among public schools 
• No. 5 for value for money and No. 3 among public schools 
• No. 4 for career progress rank and No. 2 among public schools
• No. 6 for aims achieved and No. 4 for career services 

“SMF students at Fisher benefit from individualized faculty mentorship, guidance from experienced career management advisors, and have access to our growing SMF alumni network, both throughout the U.S. and abroad,” Pinteris said. “Most importantly, our strong rankings over the years is a testament to the professional success of our alumni who give generously to the SMF program by mentoring and assisting current students with their employment searches.” 

Changes and enhancements made on an annual basis have bolstered the SMF program’s status as a top finance offering are the, Pinteris said. These additions include a core capstone project course designed to provide students with more focused, in-depth training by allowing them to select a career path either in corporate finance or investment management. The project hones students’ analytical and software skills through a customized project using real company and market data. 

Electives have also been enhanced and now include a quantitative portfolio management elective, which teaches Python and provides students with practical experience in quantitative investment analysis of market data using Python programming. Additionally, the breadth of The Ohio State University can be leveraged by students interested in broadening their business skills outside of finance. More electives exploring topics such as data analytics, strategy, urban planning, public policy or environments studies are available.

“The program helped build a strong foundation by introducing us to both theoretical and practical aspects of finance,” said Divyanshi Girotra (SMF ’20). “I improved my technical skills, including financial modeling and valuations and programming languages like R and SQL. The mergers and acquisition, enterprise risk management, financial software and financial analysis and valuation courses were really helpful.” 

“This program helped me build my own leadership style and work on my soft skills. The SMF faculty helped me build a strong professional network which has been tremendously useful.”