Why study financial economics at BGSU in Ohio?
- Flexible and efficient program structure. Full-time students may complete the degree in as little as one year. Part-time options accommodate working professionals.
- Strong analytical and quantitative skills. Build advanced problem-solving, modeling and data-analysis skills applicable to finance, policy and research settings.
- Applied learning opportunities. Complete either a directed research project or an internship. Gain hands-on experience aligned with professional or doctoral-study goals.
- Close faculty mentorship. Small classes support individualized feedback, faculty mentoring and collaborative learning.
The BGSU master’s program in financial economics was ranked top 10 in the nation (TFE Times, 2025).
#1 public university in Ohio for career prep
The Wall Street Journal
Career opportunities
Today’s financial and economic landscape demands professionals who can analyze data, interpret markets and apply economic reasoning to real-world problems. Our program equips students with the analytical training and applied experience needed to succeed in a range of professional and academic roles such as:
- Financial analyst – Analyze financial data, market trends and economic indicators to support investment, budgeting and strategic decision-making in private or public organizations.
- Economic or policy analyst – Evaluate economic conditions, policies and programs for government agencies, research organizations or consulting firms.
- Banking and financial services professional – Apply economic and quantitative analysis in roles related to banking, risk assessment and financial planning.
- Research assistant or doctoral-track candidate – Build a strong foundation for Ph.D. study in economics or finance.
Career paths
- Financial analyst
- Economic or policy analyst
- Banking and financial services professional
- Research assistant or doctoral student in economics or finance
- Data and analytics-focused roles
Quick Facts from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Curriculum
The Master of Arts in financial economics at BGSU provides rigorous training that develops analytical depth, quantitative proficiency and professional readiness. Students gain advanced skills in:
- Financial economics and applied economic theory
- Quantitative and econometric analysis
- Financial market and institutional analysis
- Economic modeling and data interpretation
- Critical evaluation of economic and financial research
Refine your analytical expertise through:
- Applied problem-solving using real-world data
- Directed research or internship experience
- Close collaboration with faculty
The program culminates in either a directed research project or an internship that allow you to demonstrate applied analytical skills aligned with your professional or doctoral-study goals.
Experiential learning opportunities
Engage in applied learning through faculty-mentored research projects or professional internships. These experiences allow you to apply economic theory and quantitative methods to real-world financial and policy-related questions while gaining practical experience under faculty supervision.
Sample courses
- Mathematical Economics
- Financial Management
- Investment Analysis and Management
- Advanced Microeconomic Theory
- Econometrics
- Financial Economics
Applying and funding
Applicants to the Master of Arts in financial economics must meet graduate admission requirements set by Bowling Green State University and the Department of Economics. Admission decisions are based on academic preparation, including prior coursework in economics, mathematics and related quantitative fields.
Students admitted to the program are automatically considered for graduate assistantships; no separate application is required. Assistantships are competitive and may include a stipend and partial tuition support, depending on the appointment.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early and consult the Department of Economics for the most current information regarding admission requirements and funding opportunities.
BGSU is one of only a handful of universities in the nation — and the only one in Ohio — to earn the Quality Matters Online Learner Support certificate for all of our online programs. This recognition reflects our commitment to providing the critical support and academic services that online students need to succeed.
#1 university in Ohio – big or small, public or private – students would choose again
The Wall Street Journal
The master’s program in financial economics is a program in the Allen W. and Carol M. Schmidthorst College of Business.
Updated: 04/03/2026 09:28AM