The Maîtrise en sciences de la gestion (M.Sc.) – Finance at the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) is a rigorous and well-regarded program designed to prepare students for advanced careers in the financial industry, both in Quebec and beyond. Offered by the École des sciences de la gestion (ESG UQAM), the program emphasizes a strong theoretical foundation coupled with practical application, equipping graduates with the analytical and problem-solving skills necessary to excel in a dynamic and competitive environment.
The program typically takes two years to complete on a full-time basis. Students can choose between two tracks: without concentration and with concentration in Financial Engineering. The non-concentration track provides a broad overview of finance, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests through elective courses. Core courses cover topics such as corporate finance, investment management, financial econometrics, and derivatives. The Financial Engineering concentration delves deeper into quantitative finance, focusing on areas like risk management, algorithmic trading, and financial modeling. This specialized track is particularly attractive to students with a strong mathematical background and an interest in applying quantitative methods to solve complex financial problems.
A key strength of the UQAM Finance M.Sc. program is its accessibility and affordability compared to other top-tier finance programs in Canada. While maintaining high academic standards, UQAM offers competitive tuition rates, making it an attractive option for students seeking a quality education without incurring excessive debt. Furthermore, UQAM’s location in downtown Montreal provides students with access to a vibrant financial center and numerous networking opportunities.
The program benefits from a faculty of experienced professors with strong research backgrounds and industry connections. Many professors have published extensively in leading academic journals and actively engage with the financial community. They bring their expertise and real-world insights into the classroom, providing students with a relevant and practical learning experience. Students also have opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research projects, gaining valuable research skills and contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field of finance.
Graduates of the UQAM Finance M.Sc. program are well-prepared for a wide range of career paths in finance. Common career destinations include investment banking, asset management, corporate finance, risk management, and financial consulting. Many graduates also pursue doctoral studies in finance or related fields. The program’s strong reputation and extensive alumni network provide graduates with a competitive edge in the job market. The bilingual environment of Montreal also enhances the employability of graduates, particularly in Quebec’s financial industry.
Admission to the program is competitive, requiring a bachelor’s degree in a related field (such as finance, economics, or mathematics), a strong academic record, and a satisfactory score on the GMAT or GRE. Fluency in French is generally required for admission, although some exceptions may be made for international students who demonstrate proficiency in English and a commitment to learning French.