BA (Hons) Finance, Investment and Risk Pathway

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Finance, Investment and Risk Pathway program at Glasgow Caledonian University provides students with a unique two-part approach to developing expertise in financial services. Through a combination of practical application and theoretical knowledge, graduates are equipped for careers in financial advising, risk analysis, wealth management, and more. The program emphasizes industry interaction, experienced faculty, and a supportive learning environment, preparing students for success in the competitive financial services industry.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The BA (Hons) Finance, Investment and Risk Pathway program at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) provides students with the opportunity to develop expertise in financial services through a unique two-part approach. This program allows students to first complete an HND in Financial Services at City of Glasgow College for two years, followed by two years of study at GCU to complete the BA (Hons) degree. This pathway offers a smooth transition from college to university while specializing in the areas of finance, investment, risk and accounting. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills required for a successful career in the financial services industry. Graduates will be equipped to tackle various roles, including financial advisor, risk analyst, wealth manager, investment analyst, and pension fund manager. This program emphasizes practical work and interaction with lecturing staff, creating a supportive environment for achieving one's career goals.

Outline:

Year 1 and Year 2:

Students complete the HND in Financial Services at City of Glasgow College, focusing on developing a fundamental understanding of the financial services industry and its various components.

Year 3:

Students progress to GCU and delve deeper into specialized units covering:

• Corporate Finance and Financial Strategies
• Regulating Financial Services
• Entrepreneurship for Business, Society and the Professions
• Business Research Methods, Theory and Practice
• Pensions and Pension Planning
• Additional optional module

Year 4 (Honours):

The final year focuses on advanced topics and the development of independent research skills. Students will study:

• Honours Dissertation
• Managing Risk in Financial Institutions
• International Finance, Institutions and Trade
• Investment Management Theory
• Additional optional module

Assessment:

The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning and achievement. These methods may include:

• Examinations: Assessments may involve answering written questions or short-answer formats to test knowledge of core concepts.
• Coursework: Students may be assigned research papers, essays, case studies, or projects to demonstrate their understanding and application of knowledge.
• Presentations: Certain units may involve presentations and oral examinations to assess communication and critical thinking skills.
• Group work: Collaboration on assignments or projects might be part of the assessment, allowing students to develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Teaching:

The BA (Hons) Finance, Investment and Risk Pathway program employs a blended learning approach that combines traditional lectures, tutorials, and seminars with online resources and activities. This creates a flexible learning environment and ensures that students are actively engaged in their learning journey. The program features:

• Experienced Faculty: Students are taught by industry professionals and academics with extensive experience and expertise in the financial services field.
• Practical Emphasis: The program places a strong emphasis on practical application of theoretical knowledge, ensuring students are prepared for real-world scenarios.
• GCULearn: The university's virtual learning environment provides access to course materials, resources, and online interactive activities.
This platform facilitates communication and collaboration between students and lecturers, fostering a supportive learning community.

Careers:

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Finance, Investment and Risk Pathway program are well-positioned for a range of rewarding careers in the financial services industry. Potential career paths include:

• Financial Advisor
• Risk Analyst
• Wealth Management
• Investment Analyst
• Pension Fund Manager
• Actuarial Analyst
• Financial Analyst
• Financial Planner
• Financial Consultant
• Investment Banker
GCU supports its students with their career development through various resources and services, including:
• Careers Network
• Employability Skills Workshops
• Career Fairs
• Internship Opportunities
• Alumni Network

Other:

• The program is accredited by the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII), providing students with a valuable professional qualification.
• The program offers optional study abroad opportunities for students to gain international experience and broaden their perspectives.
• Students can benefit from GCU's strong industry links, which provide access to networking opportunities and potential internships.

The tuition fees you pay are mostly determined by your fee status.