In today’s rapidly evolving financial world, staying ahead is essential—and the Master of Applied Finance at Kaplan Professional is designed to help you do exactly that. With digital transformation reshaping the industry through AI, blockchain, and data analytics, there’s an urgent demand for finance professionals who can adapt to new technologies, manage emerging risks, and drive innovation. At the same time, stricter regulations and a heightened focus on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) issues are creating a need for more sophisticated expertise than ever before. Whether you’re aiming for senior management roles, deepening your technical knowledge, or pursuing the CFA® designation, Kaplan’s Master of Applied Finance offers the flexibility, practical focus, and advanced skills needed to thrive. Delivered 100% online, it’s tailored for ambitious professionals ready to take their careers to the next level. In this article, we’ll explore why the MAF program is the ideal choice for ambitious finance professionals, and how Kaplan Professional can help you stay competitive in today’s fast-changing landscape. Download the MAF brochure. Why a Master in Applied Finance will Accelerate Career Growth Employers want professionals who can apply financial principles to solve real-world business problems. Let’s say a company may be facing cash flow issues and needs to decide whether to take on new debt or restructure existing liabilities. A finance professional with applied finance expertise can use financial modelling to assess the risks and benefits of each option, factoring in market conditions, the company’s financial health, and long-term goals. This practical application of financial principles ensures that the decision made is not only theoretically sound but also tailored to the company’s specific circumstances, driving informed, effective outcomes. Unlike theory-heavy programs, a Master of Applied Finance degree equips you with the hands-on skills necessary to tackle practical financial challenges. The Master of Applied Finance offers expertise in areas like corporate finance, investments, portfolio management, risk management, and financial modelling, with specialisations in areas such as Business Intelligence or Project Management. Graduating with this qualification makes you highly attractive to employers, as you’ll be able to manage investments, analyse market trends, assess risks, and turn financial data into actionable insights. Paired with strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, you’ll be capable of making an immediate impact and contributing to long-term business goals, making you a valuable asset in today’s fast-paced business world. Who This Master of Applied Finance Qualification Is For The Master of Applied Finance is designed for professionals like you, people with a solid foundation in finance or business, ready to take the next big career step. It’s designed to support: → A mid-career finance professional You’re looking to step into a leadership or specialist role like CFO, portfolio manager, or investment director. Good on you! You’ve built your confidence in the industry, and now it’s time to level up. This program will give you the strategic edge, technical depth, and credibility to lead teams, shape financial strategy, and make high-impact decisions at the executive level. → An analyst wanting more influence You’re ready to move beyond just reporting and dive into real decision-making. This program is here to help you sharpen your financial modelling, risk analysis, and strategic planning skills, positioning you for growth in roles like investment analysis, funds management, or risk consulting, where data meets strategy and drives results. → An accountant, consultant, or business professional transitioning into finance Thinking about making the leap into investment management, advisory, or corporate finance? This program will give you the tools to build your expertise in portfolio management, corporate finance, and financial markets, so you can confidently make that transition and take on new challenges. No matter where you’re starting from, this program will provide the practical tools, recognised qualifications, and career-shifting momentum you need to make your next big move. Most students are working full-time and want a degree that works around their schedule, which is why this 100% online program is built for flexibility. You can study when it suits you, without pausing your career. Even better still is there are several financial assistance options available. You can explore Fee-Help, which provides government assistance for eligible students to help with tuition fees, allowing you to defer payment. Additionally, Kaplan Professional offers various payment options and allowances to ensure the financial aspect of your studies is as manageable as possible. For more details on how you can make your studies more affordable, visit the fees and allowances page. Career Impact & Progression In the finance industry, a MAF degree is regarded as a rigorous, industry-aligned qualification. It signals to employers that you’re not just qualified on paper, but equipped to lead in complex, high-stakes environments. Many graduates see tangible progression within 6-12 months – promotions, salary increases, specialised or more senior roles. The degree also provides a strong foundation for further study. It can lead into other advanced postgraduate qualifications or support your journey toward professional certifications such as the CFA®, CPA, or other chartered designations. Ready to accelerate your finance career? Explore the course or chat with a course advisor about your next move. Key Features of Kaplan’s Program Kaplan’s Master of Applied Finance is built for professionals who want more than theory – they want results. Here’s what sets this program apart: 100% Online, Flexible Delivery Study when and where it suits you. The program is designed for busy professionals, with flexible, self-paced modules that fit around full-time work and personal commitments. With Kaplan, there’s no need to put your career on hold. Industry-Aligned Content Everything you learn is practical, current, and developed in consultation with leading finance professionals. The curriculum reflects real-world challenges and the latest trends, so you’re gaining knowledge you can use immediately. Supportive Learning Environment You’re never on your own with Kaplan. You’ll have access to expert tutors, dedicated academic support, and active discussion forums that keep you connected with both your peers and the teaching team. Help is always within reach. Real-World Application Expect practical assessments, not just exams. You’ll build and analyse portfolios, solve case studies, and apply financial concepts to realistic business scenarios. This gives you experience that’s directly transferable to the workplace. Recognition & Reputation Kaplan Professional is a trusted name in professional education, with four decades of experience and strong ties to the finance industry. Employers recognise the rigour of the Master of Applied Finance degree program, and graduates often go on to hold senior roles across banking, investment, and corporate sectors. A Master of Applied Finance isn’t just a degree, it’s a career investment backed by a brand that finance professionals know and respect. What Students Say One of the best ways to understand the real impact of a course is to hear directly from those who’ve walked the path. For Rudy, the Master of Applied Finance marked the final piece in a powerful academic trifecta, complementing his CPA and CFA® qualifications. While juggling a demanding career and three young children, he found in Kaplan Professional a flexible, supportive program grounded in real-world application. Having graduated with distinction he’s stepping confidently into new leadership opportunities in banking and regulation. Read Rudy’s full story to learn more about his experience. With a passion for valuations and transactions, Matthew used the Master of Applied Finance to build advanced technical capability and progress from a corporate tax role to Associate Director at a boutique advisory firm. For him, the program was a bridge between professional ambition and career advancement. Read Matthew’s full story here. Their stories are just two among many. Explore more experiences on our Testimonials page. Ready to write your own chapter? Master online study with tips from former Kaplan students. We’re here to help! Have questions about your next step? Our highly knowledgeable and experienced Course Advice team are available to answer your questions. They can help you plan out your studies and provide personalised guidance to suit your individual circumstances. Request a call now and an experienced Course Adviser will be in touch shortly. Alternately, call 1300 135 798 (option 2) or email courseadvice@kaplan.edu.au