Overview
The Master of Science in Accounting and Fundamental Analysis (MSAFA) at Columbia Business School is a three-semester STEM-designated program designed for individuals seeking to excel in investment analysis through advanced accounting expertise. With a strong emphasis on active, fundamental investing, the program equips students with the skills to interpret and apply financial data in decision-making. Students engage with cutting-edge research developed at the PhD level and refine their quantitative abilities, preparing them to analyze financial statements, assess company performance, and evaluate market opportunities with precision.
This program blends rigorous academic training with practical applications in equity analysis, credit analysis, and investment advisory. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in investment banking, asset management, private equity, and more, leveraging Columbia Business School’s global network and career resources. With a focus on combining research insights and technical skills, the MS in Accounting and Fundamental Analysis prepares students to lead in the dynamic world of finance.
Academics
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Students take a carefully constructed curriculum of MS, MBA, and PhD courses offered at Columbia Business School. The program has some overlap with our PhD program, but is intended for students who prefer a shorter and more industry-oriented experience than the School’s doctoral program.
Candidates should have academic preparation equivalent to that of entering PhD students, and should be fully prepared to participate in PhD classes and to complete a substantial research project.
Student Life
Columbia Business School’s supportive community helps our busy students balance their life, work, and studies while still having opportunities to enjoy one another’s company and the excitement of New York City.
Take a moment to meet our current students and alumni who talk about their Columbia Business School experiences. We’re sure you’ll see yourself in their personal glimpses and positive reflections on their time here, especially with their professors and fellow students.
The Columbia Advantage
The Career Management Center (CMC) at Columbia Business School works with students to develop lifelong career management skills and empowers them to leverage the Columbia Business School network throughout their careers.
The small size of the program allows the CMC to target search resources, tailoring these to the experience and needs of MSAFA students in a variety of industries.
By the numbers
2024 Entering Class
- 169
- Average GRE Score
- 54
- Enrolled
- 43
- Women
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MSAFA program STEM eligible?
Yes, all of our MS programs are STEM eligible.
Do I need to have work experience to gain acceptance into the MSAFA program?
While you do not need previous work experience to apply or to gain acceptance, we do find that some work or internship experience may prove valuable for both.
Do I need to send official GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, etc. scores to apply?
We do not require you to send official scores to apply to the program. However, if offered admissions, these documents will be required to validate the offer of admission.
Do I need to take the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE to apply?
International students who do not have a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from an institution in which all instruction is conducted in English must take either the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), the PTE (Pearson Test of English), or the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). You may be exempted only if you have earned a degree from an institution in which English is the language of instruction. We will not accept requests for exceptions to this policy. Your scores must be valid when you submit your application.
Connect with Admissions
We are currently closed to walk-in visitors. Please email our office to make an appointment.
We continue to offer a wide variety of virtual events to help you get to know the MS programs and the Columbia Business School community. We hope you will join us for an upcoming event!
Contact Us
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 212-854-1961
Address: 645 W 130th St, New York, NY 10027