ATHENS, Ohio -- Beginning in January, residents of the Columbus metro area will have the option of earning a master's degree in economics with a specialization in financial economics from Ohio University's Pickerington Center.

An information session about the new seven-quarter degree program will be hosted by Ohio University on Wednesday, May 21, at 6:30 p.m. in the Pickerington Center, 12933 Stonecreek Drive, Pickerington, Ohio.

The financial economics master's degree is a joint collaboration of Ohio University's Department of Economics, School of Accountancy and Department of Finance. Faculty from Ohio University's main campus in Athens will teach the courses.

The master's program is designed for professionals who desire advancement in the financial services industry. Curriculum is based on the Candidate Body of Knowledge developed by the Association for Investment Management and Research. The Association awards the Chartered Financial Analyst designation to professionals who pass a series of three written examinations covering the Candidate Body of Knowledge.

For more information visit www.ohiou.edu/economics or call Professor of Economics Khosrow Doroodian at (740) 593-2046.