MSc Finance (with Advanced Practice in second year)

Course Overview
If you are interested in a career in finance then this course will equip you with the analytical and managerial skills to succeed within the sector, after any undergraduate degree with a quantitative element.

We have developed the programme in response to market demand for graduates with strong financial awareness plus the essential skills to function as effective managers, both within the financial sector and across a range of multinational organisations.

The course is regularly refreshed to keep pace with advances in the financial sector, and is bench marked against the syllabus of the CFA Institute. Current study themes include financial econometric's and forecasting, investment and risk management, sustainable strategic decision making, corporate financial management and international financial markets.

You will also undertake a number of professional development modules to give you a competitive advantage in the jobs market, in terms of self-development and leadership.

In the second semester of year 2 of this programme you will have the opportunity to choose to complete either a master’s Internship or master’s Study Abroad module. If you choose the internship option, we will work with you to secure an internship opportunity relevant to the industry sector you are most interested in.

However, it is important to remember that ultimately it is your responsibility to secure your placement. If you choose the study abroad option, we have an extensive network of high ranking academic institutions for you to choose from to complete the Study Abroad module.

Career

As an increasing number of businesses look to a global marketplace, there is a growing need for financial experts with practical, legal and cultural understanding of international finance.

That the skills and knowledge you will gain will help you to achieve aspirations within the field of quantitative finance, portfolio management, and financial analysts.

The personal development skills acquired in modules such as Developing Global Management Competencies will also help you to stand out. This module includes a residential weekend to build your understanding of individual and group behaviour.

To further improve your practical skills you have opportunity to undertake a project in place of the dissertation. This involves working on behalf of an external organisation that is looking for answers to a current business problem or question. You will work in a small group – participating in group and individual activities to identify solutions – giving you valuable experiences to boost your CV.

Our graduates have moved into a range of careers in the financial sector and beyond, including:

• Analyst at a stock broker
• Investment and security departments of large commercial and investment banks
• Trainee manager within the treasury of an international company
• Recruitment consultant specialising in finance personnel
• University lecturer

A Masters course that takes two years, instead of just one, will carry particular weight with employers. They’ll understand that you’ll have a deeper understanding of topics as well as more experience - either in the workplace via an internship or from another cultural perspective via study abroad.

Applicants should normally have: A minimum of a 2:2 honours degree in any subject, or substantial experience of working in a business organisation. It is recommended that your previous studies include quantitative elements.