By Arial Struthers
In August, Vanderbilt Business welcomed the Master of Science in Finance (MS Finance) Class of 2026. This accomplished and ambitious cohort of 103 students brings strong academic foundations, quantitative skills, and a shared drive to excel in roles spanning investment banking, consulting, corporate finance, and beyond.
The class, representing 73 different undergraduate institutions, arrived on campus ready to launch and accelerate their careers in finance. The group earned a median GPA of 3.8, reflecting the academic strength and competitiveness of the newest cohort.
“Each year, our programs continue to grow stronger,” says Tom Steenburgh, Ralph Owen Dean and Professor of Marketing. “The MS Finance Class of 2026 reflects the talent, drive, and intellectual curiosity that define Vanderbilt Business. Their energy and ambition continue to strengthen the school’s momentum.”
The most common undergraduate majors represented within the Class of 2026 include finance, economics, accounting, and business administration — alongside representation from disciplines such as applied mathematics, computer science, and political science. This variety of academic backgrounds adds depth to classroom discussions and fosters collaboration across perspectives.
Demographic Background
Average Age: 22
Male (% of class): 77%
Female (% of class): 23%
Educational Background
Undergraduate Institutions Represented: 73
Median Undergraduate GPA: 3.8
Top Undergraduate Institutions Represented (list):
- University of Alabama [Tuscaloosa]
- Vanderbilt University
- Florida State University
- University of Tennessee [Knoxville]
- Sewanee: The University of the South
- Clemson University
- The Ohio State University
- Cornell University
- Indiana University- Bloomington
- Stetson University
- Arizona State University
- University of South Carolina [Columbia]
- University of Southern California
* See the graph below for a breakdown of the MS Finance Class of 2026’s undergraduate majors.
*Explore the map below for a breakdown of the countries represented in the MS Finance Class of 2026.
Explore more about the impressive MS Finance Class of 2026 and the exciting journey they are on at Vanderbilt Business.
If you’re ready to accelerate your career and join a program with a proven record of strong career outcomes year over year, apply to the Vanderbilt MS Finance program.
