Delivery
In-person, evening classes at the Dubois Center
Financial Engineering and Fintech, M.S.
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Build the skills shaping today’s financial industry
Why study Financial Engineering and Fintech at UNC Charlotte
At UNC Charlotte, you won’t just study finance — you’ll build the technical and analytical skills needed to lead in modern financial markets. This program combines a strong analytical foundation with applied learning in AI, machine learning, fintech and quantitative investments.
You’ll develop expertise in:
- Financial modeling and quantitative analysis
- AI and machine learning in finance
- Risk modeling and financial analytics
- Fintech and data-driven decision-making
Learn where finance, fintech and opportunity intersect
The Difference is Charlotte
Charlotte isn’t just where you’ll study. It’s where finance happens.
From Charlotte’s leading financial institutions to global markets, UNC Charlotte connects you to top employers and a network that opens doors across the world’s major financial centers.
You’ll benefit from:
- Access to leading financial institutions and fintech companies
- Industry-informed curriculum shaped by employer needs
- Faculty with expertise in quantitative finance and applied research
- A strong alumni network across finance, analytics and technology
This connection to industry is what sets Charlotte apart and why it matters for your career.
Turn advanced skills into high-impact roles
Career Pathways
UNC Charlotte’s location gives students a distinct advantage — we’re home to the global headquarters of Bank of America and major operations for Wells Fargo, Truist and Ally Financial. Our graduates enter a job market with direct access to Fortune 500 employers while joining a network that spans every major financial center in the world.
Explore these career pathways:
- AI + Machine Learning in Finance – Build predictive models, automate decision-making and power next-generation financial systems.
- Fintech + Financial Technology – Develop and scale digital financial products across payments, blockchain and emerging platforms.
- Quantitative Investments + Trading – Design models that drive trading strategies, portfolio optimization and market insights.
- Data Science + Financial Analytics – Transform complex data into actionable insights for risk, forecasting and strategy.
- Risk, Compliance + Financial Engineering – Apply advanced modeling techniques to manage risk and validate financial systems.
- Consulting + Strategic Advising – Advise organizations on analytics, digital transformation and financial innovation.
Have questions about the program, your background or your next step?
Take the next step toward a career in financial engineering, fintech and analytics.
Program Structure
Flexible, focused and designed to build applied skills in finance, fintech and analytics.
- 30 credit hours (10 courses)
- Full-time (12–16 months) or part-time options available
- Evening classes at The Dubois Center at UNC Charlotte Center City
- Comprehensive exam as a capstone experience
Concentrations include:
- Financial Engineering and Quantitative Finance
- Quantitative Risk Management
- AI and Machine Learning in Finance
Note: The official catalog entry for this program will be available summer 2026.
Career Advantage
Skills You'll Develop
Build the technical and analytical skills to work at the intersection of finance, data and technology with hands-on experience in AI, machine learning, fintech and quantitative modeling.
- Advanced financial modeling
- Data analysis and statistical methods
- Programming and computational techniques
- Risk analysis and decision-making
- Application of AI and machine learning in finance
Tuition + Financial Planning
Understand your investment — and your return
Earning your M.S. in Financial Engineering and Fintech is an investment in your future. UNC Charlotte provides transparent tuition and resources to help you plan with confidence.
Tuition Overview
- Competitive tuition for in-state and out-of-state students
- Pay by credit hour (30 total credit hours)
- Evening program designed for working professionals
Funding Opportunities
- Merit-based scholarships may be available
- Graduate assistantships (limited availability)
- Employer tuition support (varies by organization)
Financial Planning Resources
- Access to tools and guidance to help you evaluate costs and plan ahead
Application Requirements + Admissions
What you’ll submit
- Online application
- Statement of purpose
- Resume
- Letters of recommendation
- Transcripts
Admissions requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field (minimum 3.0 GPA)
- GRE or GMAT scores (waiver available for qualified applicants)
- Calculus and statistics coursework
- Familiar with at least one programming language, most preferably Python
Admissions pathways
Domestic Applicants
- Meet UNC Charlotte Graduate School admission requirements
- Submit all application materials listed above
- GRE/GMAT waiver may be available for qualified applicants
International Applicants
- Meet UNC Charlotte Graduate School admission requirements
- Submit all application materials listed above
- Demonstrate English language proficiency
- GRE/GMAT waiver may be available for qualified applicants
Early Entry
High-achieving UNC Charlotte undergraduate students can begin graduate coursework while completing their bachelor’s degree.
- Start taking graduate-level courses during your senior year
- Double-count up to 12 credit hours toward both degrees
- Receive provisional admission to the graduate program
- Complete your bachelor’s and master’s in an accelerated timeframe
Eligibility typically includes:
- Application to the Graduate School and program approval
- 3.2 or higher cumulative GPA
- Completion of at least 75 undergraduate credit hours
Accelerated Master’s Program
The Accelerated Master’s Program allows high-achieving UNC Charlotte students to begin working toward their master’s degree earlier in their academic career.
- Begin graduate coursework as early as your undergraduate program
- Progress toward both degrees on an accelerated timeline
- Seamlessly transition from undergraduate to graduate study
Eligibility typically includes:
- Completion of required undergraduate coursework
- Strong academic performance (program-specific GPA requirements)
- Admission to the Graduate School and program approval
TEST SCORES
GMAT/GRE Waiver
The M.S. in Financial Engineering and Fintech offers a selective test waiver for applicants with strong academic and quantitative backgrounds. Applicants may be considered for a waiver based on:
Professional Experience
- Minimum of three years of work experience in finance, quantitative analysis, computer science or a related quantitative/analytical field
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA (applies to both domestic and international experience)
Academic Background (no work experience)
- Minimum 3.5 undergraduate GPA
- Strong performance (A- or above) in quantitative coursework such as economics, mathematics, statistics or finance
Early Entry (UNC Charlotte Undergraduates)
- Minimum 3.2 undergraduate GPA
- Grades of A or B in quantitative coursework such as economics, mathematics, statistics or finance
UNC Charlotte Graduate Students
- Current or former students in the Graduate Certificate in Applied Econometrics or M.S. in Economics
- Completion of at least two courses with grades of B or above Minimum 3.0 graduate GPA
You can request a waiver within your application — no separate form is required.
Application Deadlines
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and priority deadlines are considered for scholarships and funding opportunities, so APPLY EARLY.
Fall (August start)
- Priority Consideration: March 1
- Final Consideration: August 1
Spring (January start)
- Priority Consideration: October 1
- Final Consideration: December 1
Upcoming Events
Join an upcoming virtual information session to explore career pathways, curriculum and program structure and the admissions process.
May
19
M.S. in Financial Engineering and Fintech Virtual Information Session
Prepare for high-impact careers in quantitative finance, fintech and financial analytics. UNC Charlotte’s M.S. in Financial Engineering and Fintech (formerly…
May
19
M.S. in Financial Engineering and Fintech Virtual Information Session
Prepare for high-impact careers in quantitative finance, fintech and financial analytics. UNC Charlotte’s M.S. in Financial Engineering and Fintech (formerly…
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the program name change?
The program was formerly known as the M.S. in Mathematical Finance (MAFI). The new name — M.S. in Financial Engineering and Fintech — better reflects how finance is practiced today, including the growing role of data, technology and financial innovation.
Is this a new program?
No. This is the same rigorous program with an updated name that more clearly reflects current industry practices and career pathways.
Is this program right for me?
The M.S. in Financial Engineering and Fintech may be a strong fit if you:
- Are interested in applying analytical thinking to real-world financial challenges
- Enjoy solving complex, data-driven problems
- Have a background in finance, mathematics, economics, engineering or a related field
- Want to build advanced technical skills for careers in finance or fintech
What kind of background do successful students typically have?
Students in this program typically come from quantitative and analytical backgrounds such as finance, mathematics, economics, engineering or related fields. A strong foundation in analytical thinking and problem-solving is important, while technical skills are developed throughout the program.
Do I need programming experience?
Some exposure to Python is suggested, but not required. The program builds technical skills throughout the curriculum.
Can I work while completing the program?
Yes. Evening classes at The Dubois Center at UNC Charlotte are designed to accommodate working professionals.
Contact Us
Have Questions?
Ready for a one-on-one conversation?
Contact Kimberly McLaurin, Assistant Director of Enrollment for Belk College Graduate Programs.
kmclaur8@charlotte.edu
Apply early to secure your spot and be considered for priority review.
Connect with our recruitment specialist to explore your next step.