Congratulations to the Master of Science in Finance (MSc Finance) program at the Edwards School of Business for their exceptional Graduate Program Review results! Both internal and external reviewers evaluated the program through an on-site visit, phone calls to alumni and documentation supplied by the department.

External examiners Latha Shanker, Harry J. Turtle and Robert Lucas praised the M.Sc.’s innovative curriculum, which includes a weekly research seminar, hybrid undergrad/graduate courses, and external examiners for each thesis defense. They also reported positively on the area of student outcomes. Over the past five years, student theses have resulted in six refereed journal articles, 36 conference presentations and three published proceedings. “The acceptance of student theses at conferences and in refereed journals is exemplary for a Master’s program,” they wrote in the final report. “This is an admirable level of M.Sc. student success.”

The examiners also looked at student outcomes in terms of industry and as a stepping stone to further graduate studies. Five of 19 graduates have gone on to highly-ranked doctoral programs, while “students that seek employment in professional fields have achieved tremendous placement success.”

During their on-site visit, reviewers found current M.Sc. students were strong advocates for the program’s learning environment.  “Students spoke glowingly of the quality of supervision and interaction with their supervisors and advisory committees.”

Six areas were assessed in all, with high ratings given for each. “The program provides students a wealth of opportunities for intellectual development, excellent resources to pursue their academic activities, and excellent support services,” the report concluded. “It is rare to see such passion from both students and faculty at the Masters level. Student passion for the program is apparent in first year students, second year students and alumni.”

Dean Daphne Taras called the results a “thrilling achievement” and offered her congratulations to M.Sc. Finance Director Dr. Marie Racine, Department Secretary Brenda Orischuk and the entire Department for achieving such an exemplary report.