Our Curriculum

The essential knowledge modules of financial management are offered in a compact, focused, and structured way. In two terms you will acquire a total of 15 credits with three compulsory courses, each of which is concluded with a written exam. 

The compulsory elective part of the MACFin comprises 24 credits, which you can choose from a variety of courses. In the general core elective section (12 credits), the breadth of financial management is to be covered by choosing four courses of 3 credits each, while in the immersion section (12 credits), two comprehensive courses of 6 credits each are to provide the opportunity for specialization and preparation for entering the profession.

In the independent elective area, you can take courses across the programs to the extent of 10 credits. Use these to expand your business knowledge or to broaden your horizons beyond business topics. In addition to other courses from the MACFin compulsory elective area or courses from other Master's programs, we also offer courses specially designed for the independent elective area.

The contextual studies represent one of the most important unique selling points of the University of St. Gallen by strengthening the social and cultural competencies of our students in an exceptional way. Here, our MACFin students can 'think outside the box' and receive credit for courses in focus areas, and the skills area. The cultural and social science courses are very diverse and can be tailored to the MACFin program. The skills area teaches essential competencies and practical skills for success in the corporate world. The contextual studies complement the core studies and are worth 18 credits.

You will write a Master's thesis worth 18 credits. You determine the topic individually with one of our lecturers, but a reference to the Master's area is necessary. Contact us at an early stage, we look forward to receiving exciting Master's theses! On our information sheet, you will find the necessary administrative regulations.

We suggest to complete the compulsory subjects in the first 2 Semesters.

Exams: For all compulsory subjects, a written exam (100%) applies.

We offer different core electives, weighted at 3 credits for general core electives and 6 credits for core electives Immersion.

In core electives, you will be able to choose from a unique combination of depth and breadth. This allows students to tailor their education according to their individual needs and interests. Combinations may be possible along different dimensions, such as:

• conceptually or practically oriented (in cooperation with companies)
• specialization or generalization
• internationally or industry-oriented
• individual work or group work
• workshops with presentations or lectures with exams

Every MACFin student may individually choose his/her thematic positioning, according to individual interests or specific career perspectives.

The selection of respective core electives allows students to obtain creditable advancements for a later education as a chartered accountant. An overview of the courses currently on offer can be found at courses.unisg.ch.