Financial Planning, MS

The new 30-credit hour MS in Financial Planning program at the University of Dallas is designed to equip students with both the professional expertise and ethical foundation to excel in one of today’s most in-demand fields. With a curriculum that prepares students for the rigorous Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) exam, and courses ranging from investments and tax to portfolio management and retirement planning, this program offers a comprehensive pathway for aspiring financial advisors.

Master’s in Financial Planning Curriculum

Financial planning students gain practical training through a relevant curriculum that prepares them for leadership roles in personal finance, wealth management and financial advising. 

While focusing on maintaining confidentiality, integrity and availability of information, the MS in Financial Planning program covers all domains of the CFP exam. 

Financial Planning Program Course Topics

• Investment Management
• Tax Planning and Strategy
• Retirement Planning
• Estate Planning
• Risk Management and Insurance

Become a Certified Financial Planner (CFP Board-Registered)

Students are equipped with the knowledge and educational requirements to sit for the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) exam. Exam preparation is strategically integrated into the curriculum, increasing exam pass rates.

Learn more in our blog, How to Become a Financial Planner.

CFA Institute Recognized

The University of Dallas M.S. Finance Program is affiliated with the CFA Institute and prepares students to take the CFA Level 1 exam and seek to obtain the Chartered Financial Analyst® designation. This designation is achieved by passing a series of three rigorous exams, adhering to the  code of ethics and standards of practice observed by the CFA Institute. The University of Dallas' M.S. Finance program is one of 300 universities worldwide recognized as a CFA Institute® University Affiliation Program.

Learn More About Admissions Requirements

Master’s Degree in Financial Planning Program Format

The M.S. in Financial Planning is a 30-hour program comprising classes that cover a range of financial planning topics. Almost all classes are on the Irving campus or in a hybrid format (partly online, partly on campus), allowing for face-to-face collaborative opportunities with other students and professors. For the typical working professional taking two classes per semester, the M.S. in financial planning program can be completed in about 1-2 years.

• Customizable hybrid format
• Collaboration opportunities with professors and peers
• Completion time in 1-2 years

Where Will a Financial Planning Career Take Me?

Students who complete this degree often pursue careers in areas such as financial advising, wealth management, and estate planning. The M.S. in financial planning provides comprehensive expertise in core areas like investment strategies, tax planning, insurance, retirement, and estate planning to position students for higher-paying roles and enhance credibility with clients and employers. In addition, the University of Dallas College of Business incorporates ethical training that emphasizes fiduciary responsibility, client-centric advice, and behavioral finance to train students to address not only numbers, but values and goals in clients lives. 

Finance Planning Career Paths

• Financial Analyst
• Financial Advisor
• Business Analyst
• Operations Analyst
• Investment Banker
• Budget Analyst
• Retail Logistics Finance

Frequently Asked Questions about the Master’s in Financial Planning Program

What does a financial planner do?

Financial planners assist individuals and organizations in refining their financial goals and determining the steps necessary to achieve them. In assessing and analyzing financial situations, developing a plan, and then regularly guiding clients through budgets, financial planners help clients achieve financial stability. 

What can I do with a financial planning degree?

Earning a master’s in financial planning opens several doors to rewarding careers in finance, including a certified financial planner, financial analyst, financial advisor, business analyst, and more.

Learn more in our blog, Master’s in Finance Careers: 5 Potential Paths.

How long does it take to complete the master’s in financial planning?

For working professionals taking two courses a semester, the master’s in financial planning degree takes approximately one to two years to complete.

Are any classes for the MS in Financial Planning offered online? 

Classes for the MS in Financial Planning offered through the University of Dallas are available on the Irving campus or in a hybrid format (partially online, partially on campus), allowing for maximum collaborative opportunities with fellow students and professors.

What is the cost of earning an MS in Financial Planning from UDallas?

The University of Dallas offers competitive tuition rates for the master’s in financial planning program. You can also explore our graduate financial aid options.