There are moments in life that are worth celebrating simply because of what they represent. The 15-month Master of Science in Finance program celebration was one of those moments. It was an opportunity for students to come together as a group, reflect on the journey, and recognize what they have achieved.
Over the last 15 months, in this new format of the finance program, students have sharpened their technical skills, deepened financial insight, and built strong connections with peers who share similar ambitions. The energy in the room reflected both pride in their accomplishments and confidence in the value of the experience they gained.
More than a celebration, the gathering marked an important innovation in graduate finance education. The 15-month format is designed to meet the evolving demands of students and employers, allowing students to complete their degree faster than a traditional two-year format while still providing a summer break for internships. This structure helps students gain real-world experience and apply classroom knowledge in professional settings.
As Carey’s first cohort to navigate this new model, these students are setting a precedent for those who follow, demonstrating the benefits of flexibility, efficiency, and practical training in a globally focused academic setting. The launch of the 15-month program reflects Carey’s continued commitment to preparing talented, adaptable finance professionals for success in a rapidly changing industry.
Celebratory remarks were delivered by school leadership, including Vice Dean Lasse Mertins and Finance Academic Program Director Xian Sun, who expressed pride in their students’ professional and academic growth, resilience, and collaborative spirit. Speakers emphasized the value of the program’s built in summer structure, the strong engagements between students and faculty, and the pioneering role the students played as the inaugural 15-month cohort.
The celebratory atmosphere brought opportunities for mingling, photos, and reflection on students’ academic journeys. Students brought guests, with many family members traveling to Carey from outside the DMV area—from as far away as China—to share the moment.
As students look ahead to the formal commencement ceremony in May, they were encouraged to stay connected with Carey’s alumni network and continue building on the momentum created over the past 15 months.
Master of Science in Finance: 15-month program
The 15-month finance program is for recent college graduates and early-career professionals seeking advanced skills in finance. The program is especially popular among students interested in earning a finance degree in the U.S. and prefer a program that allows for a summer break to complete an internship to gain real-world experience before returning for a final academic semester. This format is well-suited to those who value both academic rigor and practical, hands-on learning opportunities.