Answers to common questions about graduate programs, online options, MBA formats, deadlines and next steps at the Herbert Wertheim College of Business.
General Graduate Programs
Which graduate programs does the Herbert Wertheim College of Business offer?
The Herbert Wertheim College of Business at Florida State University offers graduate business programs designed for individuals at different stages of their academic and career journeys.
Our master’s degree programs include:
- Accounting (MAcc)
- Business Administration (MBA)
- Business Analytics (MS-BA)
- Finance (MSF)
- Management Information Systems (MS-MIS)
- Risk Management and Insurance (MS-RMI)
Among our offerings are on-campus and online graduate programs, several MBA formats, combined bachelor’s/master’s pathways and joint MBA pathways.
The Wertheim College also offers a Ph.D. in Business Administration with majors in seven disciplines:
- Accounting
- Finance
- Marketing
- Management Information Systems (MIS)
- Organizational Behavior and Human Resources (OBHR)
- Risk Management and Insurance (RMI)
- Strategy
Several online master’s business degree options at the Wertheim College provide flexibility for individuals balancing work, family or other responsibilities.
Online options include:
Are GMAT or GRE scores required?
GMAT or GRE scores are optional for master’s program applicants and required for Ph.D. applicants. Master’s applicants may submit GMAT or GRE scores if they believe the scores will strengthen their application. It is recommended that any submitted scores from master’s applicants be at or above the 50th percentile. Any submitted test scores become part of the application and are used in the admission review process.
The competitive Ph.D. application process at the Wertheim College focuses on students with grade-point averages of 3.5 or higher and GMAT scores of at least 555 (600 on GMAT exams prior to 2024) or GRE scores of at least 155 on each section of the revised test.
Which graduate programs can I complete on campus?
The Wertheim College offers several master’s degrees and a Ph.D. with seven majors on campus. Our four on-campus master’s degrees include the Master of Accounting (MAcc), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Science in Business Analytics (MS-BA) and Master of Science in Finance (MSF). Each of these master's degrees are offered full time and can be completed in one calendar year.
Additionally, our MBA can be completed part time in the evenings, taking two courses at a time, allowing students to complete the program in two years.
The Ph.D. in Business Administration is a full-time, on-campus doctoral program that can be completed in less than five years. Students may choose from seven majors: Accounting, Finance, Management Information Systems, Marketing, Organizational Behavior and Human Resources, Risk Management and Insurance, and Strategy.
Can I complete a graduate business degree while working full time?
Yes. The Wertheim College offers flexible graduate degree formats that allow many individuals to complete coursework while continuing to work full time.
Our online and part-time programs are designed with working professionals in mind and allow students to complete degree coursework two classes at a time. Many of these programs can be completed in about two years, depending on the selected program or format.
When are on-campus master’s applications due?
On-campus master’s applicants should prepare applications for submission by the Jan. 15 priority deadline to start a full-time master’s degree in Accounting (MAcc), Business Analytics (MS-BA) or Finance (MSF) beginning in the summer or a master’s degree in Accounting (MAcc) or Business Administration (MBA) beginning in the fall.
In addition, the MAcc program and the Part-Time, Evening MBA admit students all three terms.
Final deadlines for all on-campus master’s programs are March 1 for summer entry, June 1 for fall entry or Oct. 1 for spring entry.
Note that although the final deadline for fall entry into the full-time MAcc and MBA degree options is not until June 1, applications should still be submitted by the Jan. 15 prioirty deadline for best consideration.
Prospective students should review current deadline details each application cycle before submitting materials, as deadlines and cohort availability may vary.
Are graduate programs at the Wertheim College nationally ranked?
Yes. The Wertheim College graduate programs are nationally recognized in several areas.
Visit our rankings page to see the latest list of achievements, including high marks among public universities for our MBA Real Estate Specialty, which is offered online or on campus; our Online Graduate Business Programs in Management Information Systems (MS-MIS) and Risk Management and Insurance (MS-RMI); our Online, Part-Time MBA, our Online MBA for Veterans, and the Master of Science in Finance (MSF).
What makes graduate programs at the Wertheim College a strong value?
Our graduate programs are designed to provide high-quality, career-relevant business education with a strong return on investment.
Students benefit from flexible formats, specialized program options, faculty expertise and the opportunity to choose a graduate path that aligns with their professional goals.
Prospective students can also review the Program Costs page for more details.
Are there options for current FSU undergraduates to start graduate study early?
Yes. We offer combined bachelor’s/master’s pathways for high-achieving FSU undergraduate students.
These pathways allow qualified, upper-division students to begin graduate studies early, counting that coursework toward a future business master’s degree at the Wertheim College, potentially saving time and tuition money.
Students accepted into a combined pathway will still be required to apply separately to the master’s degree program and should begin that process during the first semester of their senior year.
Who are Wertheim College graduate programs designed for?
Our graduate programs are designed for a wide range of prospective students, including academic achievers, military personnel, State of Florida employees and working professionals.
Whether students are preparing for career advancement, specialized professional growth, leadership roles or doctoral study, our programs offer multiple pathways to support their goals.
Master's Programs
What is the MAcc program?
The Master of Accounting is a 30-credit, on-campus, STEM-designated program that can typically be completed in three semesters, or approximately one calendar year. The program develops advanced skills in financial reporting, auditing, taxation, accounting technology and professional decision-making. Students choose a major in Assurance and Advisory Services, Generalist or Taxation.
The program fulfills the educational requirements for CPA licensure in Florida and most other jurisdictions, although students should verify the requirements where they plan to become licensed. Applicants without an accounting degree must complete the required business and accounting prerequisite courses.
The priority application deadline is Jan. 15 for summer or fall entry. The MAcc program admits students each semester. Final application deadlines are March 1 for summer entry, June 1 for fall entry and Oct. 1 for spring entry.
What is the MS-BA program?
The Master of Science in Business Analytics is a 33-credit, full-time, on-campus, program completed in one calendar year. The STEM-designated degree program begins in the summer and prepares students to analyze large datasets and translate their findings into strategic business recommendations.
Coursework includes machine learning, data management, forecasting, optimization, programming and data visualization. Students gain experience with tools and languages such as Python, SQL and Tableau.
The priority application deadline is Jan. 15 for summer entry, although international applicants may have an earlier deadline, and the final application deadline is March 1.
What is the MSF program?
The Master of Science in Finance is a 32-credit, full-time, on-campus program completed in one calendar year. The STEM-designated degree program begins in late June and concludes in early May. Students choose from two specializations — Corporate Finance and Investment Management or Real Estate — and gain experience in financial modeling, portfolio strategy, econometrics, derivatives and alternative investments.
Students also have access to Bloomberg terminals, FactSet workstations and a student-managed investment fund ranked among the Top 10 among public schools.
The priority application deadline is Jan. 15, although international applicants may have an earlier deadline, and the final application deadline is March 1.
What is the Online MS-MIS program?
Our Master of Science in Management Information Systems (MS-MIS) is an online graduate business program designed for professionals interested in connecting technology, data and business leadership.
The program supports students who want to strengthen their knowledge of management information systems, business technology, data-driven decision-making and technology strategy, and can be completed in two years with no campus visit required.
What is the Online MS-RMI program?
Our Master of Science in Risk Management and Insurance (MS-RMI) is an online graduate business program designed for individuals interested in risk management, insurance and related leadership areas.
The program is a strong fit for students and professionals interested in insurance, compliance, underwriting, claims, employee benefits, enterprise risk and emerging risk leadership, and can be completed in two years with no campus visit required.
MBA Programs
Which MBA formats does the Wertheim College offer?
The Wertheim College offers several MBA formats, giving students the opportunity to choose the option that best fits their goals, schedule and professional experience.
MBA formats include the following:
- Accelerated, Full-Time MBA (on campus)
- Part-Time, Evening MBA (on campus)
- Online, Part-Time MBA
- Online, Part-Time MBA with a Major in Alternative Investments and Finance
- Online, Part-Time MBA with a Major in Healthcare Administration
- Joint Pathway with Law (JD/MBA) (full time, on campus)
- Joint Pathway with Social Work (MSW/MBA) (part time, on campus)
What is the Accelerated, Full-Time MBA format?
The Accelerated, Full-Time MBA is an intensive, on-campus format with 39 credit hours that can be completed in one calendar year. The accelerated format provides a broad foundation in business strategy, finance, marketing, management, analytics and organizational leadership while allowing students to build expertise through elective specialization coursework.
This format only admits for fall entry, and its priority application deadline is Jan. 15. After Jan. 15, applications will be considered on a space-available basis until the final June 1 deadline.
This format is designed for students prepared to pursue their MBA through a fast-paced academic experience.
What is the Part-Time, Evening MBA format?
The Part-Time, Evening MBA is a 39-credit, on-campus format designed for working professionals who want to continue their careers while earning an MBA. Students typically take two evening classes each semester and can complete the coursework in approximately two years.
The curriculum develops knowledge in core business disciplines, strategic decision-making and leadership while providing a schedule that accommodates full-time employment.
This format admits a new cohort of students each semester. Application deadlines are March 1 for summer entry, June 1 for fall entry and Oct. 1 for spring entry.
What is the Online, Part-Time MBA format?
All online MBA formats at FSU are 39 credit hours with no campus visit required. Affordable and flexible, our online MBA formats are ideal for mobile military personnel and business executives on the go. The program takes seven semesters to complete, and lessons learned can be immediately applied at work.
Students pay the same price, plus applicable fees, for courses regardless of location. Students pursuing an Online MBA from the Wertheim College can choose to customize their degree with an available specialization or opt to apply for an Online MBA format with a major in Alternative Investments and Finance or Healthcare Administration.
Online MBA specializations are available in Business Analytics, Healthcare Management, Management Information Systems, Marketing, Real Estate, or Risk Management and Insurance. Some specializations require prior approval.
What is the Online MBA with a Major in Healthcare Administration?
The Online MBA with a Major in Healthcare Administration combines foundational MBA coursework with healthcare expertise and is designed for individuals who want to lead teams, support organizational change and make a meaningful impact on the business side of healthcare.
What is the Online MBA with a Major in Alternative Investments and Finance?
Our Online MBA with a Major in Alternative Investments and Finance builds on the MBA program’s multidisciplinary foundation and the Wertheim College’s strengths in finance, real estate, and risk management and insurance.
The major is designed for students who want specialized knowledge in alternative investments, financial strategy and the evolving investment landscape.
When are online and part-time MBA applications due?
Online and part-time MBA applicants should submit their application by March 1 for summer entry, June 1 for fall entry, or Oct. 1 for spring entry.
Because deadlines may change by cycle and program format, prospective students should always review the current deadline information before applying.
Ph.D. Program
Which Ph.D. majors are available at the Wertheim College?
Our Ph.D. in Business Administration offers seven majors:
- Accounting
- Finance
- Management Information Systems
- Marketing
- Organizational Behavior and Human Resources
- Risk Management and Insurance
- Strategy
The program is designed for individuals preparing for research-focused academic careers.
When is the Ph.D. priority application deadline?
Review of Ph.D. application materials begins after the Dec. 1 priority deadline for all majors.
Prospective Ph.D. applicants should review the current admissions requirements and submit all required materials by the posted deadline for full consideration.
Applications and Next Steps
How do I apply to a graduate program at Wertheim College?
Prospective students can begin their application through the Graduate Admissions Portal linked from our graduate programs webpage, graduatebusiness.fsu.edu.
Individuals who are still exploring their options can also complete the Request Information form to receive additional program details before applying.
How do I request more information?
You can request more information by completing the request form on our graduate programs webpage.
Our Graduate Programs Office can also help you identify the right program contact and next step based on your academic background, career goals and preferred program format.
I am interested, but not ready to apply. What is my best next step?
If you are interested but not ready to apply, your best next step is to visit our graduate programs webpage to request information, review program costs, attend an information session if available, compare program formats and connect with the appropriate graduate program specialist.
Whom should I contact with questions not listed here?
Our Graduate Programs Office advises students in person and remotely.
Housed in the Herbert Wertheim Center for Business Excellence, Suite 1500, the office is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
You can contact us by phone at 850-644-6458, toll-free at 877-587-5540, or by email at gradprograms@wertheim.fsu.edu.
