Finance MSc

Program Overview

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The MSc Finance program at Birkbeck, University of London, equips students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in finance and financial economics. The program combines academic rigor with practical problem-solving, preparing graduates for successful careers in banking, finance, and other sectors. Delivered through a blend of evening face-to-face sessions and online learning, the program offers flexibility for students juggling work and other commitments. Graduates benefit from the extensive research experience of the faculty and access to resources through Moodle, including lecture notes, practice exercises, and discussion forums.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Objectives:

• To equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in finance and financial economics.
• To provide a solid understanding of basic portfolio theory, corporate finance, and pricing theory applied to derivatives and government bond markets.
• To equip students with the latest econometrics and numerical analysis skills.
• To prepare graduates for successful careers in various sectors including banking, finance, commercial firms, and government.

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Description:

• This MSc Finance program is distinguished by its combination of academic rigor and practical, problem-solving skills valued by employers.
• The program benefits from the extensive research experience of the faculty, who are also active practitioners in the financial sector.
• The course delivery utilizes a blend of evening face-to-face sessions and online learning, offering flexibility for students juggling work and other commitments.
• Students can access resources for each module through Moodle, including lecture notes, practice exercises, recordings, and discussion forums.

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Outline:

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Content:

• This program focuses on advanced topics in finance and financial economics, including asset management, corporate finance, econometrics of financial markets, economics of financial markets, financial markets, mathematics and statistics for finance, and principles of accounting.

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Structure:

• Students must complete seven compulsory modules (150 credits) and an 8000-word dissertation (30 credits).
• The program is available as a one-year full-time or two-year part-time option.
• Attendance is required for two to four evenings per week during the academic year.
• The program is delivered on-campus in Central London.

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Course Schedule:

• The program starts in October 2024.
• Lectures typically take place between 6pm and 9pm.
• Specific class times and schedules are available closer to the start date.

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Modules:

• Asset Management: This module examines the theory and practice of asset management, including portfolio construction, performance evaluation, and risk management.
• Corporate Finance: This module covers the principles of corporate finance, including valuation, capital budgeting, and mergers and acquisitions.
• Econometrics of Financial Markets: This module explores the use of econometric techniques to analyze financial data.
• Economics of Financial Markets: This module examines the economic factors that influence financial markets, including interest rates, inflation, and exchange rates.
• Mathematics and Statistics for Finance: This module covers the mathematical and statistical tools used in finance, including calculus, probability theory, and time series analysis.
• Principles of Accounting: This module introduces the basic principles of accounting, including financial statements, ratio analysis, and auditing.
• MSc Finance Dissertation: Students conduct independent research on a topic of their choice under the guidance of a supervisor.

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Assessment:

• Assessment methods include a combination of coursework and unseen examinations, with the specific ratio varying depending on the module.
• Coursework typically involves essays, problem sets, and presentations.
• Exams are typically held in June, with some exceptions.

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Teaching:

• The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty with expertise in various areas of finance and financial economics.
• Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, problem-solving sessions, and independent study.
• The program utilizes a variety of learning technologies to facilitate interactions between students and faculty.
• Birkbeck offers various support services to students, including academic skills development, learning development, disability and dyslexia support, and counselling.

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Careers:

• Graduates of this program pursue careers in various sectors, including banking, finance, the public sector, industry, and research and analysis.
• Potential professions include financial risk analyst, economist, purchasing manager, management consultant, and actuary.
• Birkbeck's Careers and Enterprise service provides career guidance and support to students and graduates.

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Other:

• This program is part of the CFA Institute University Affiliation Program and offers a limited number of CFA scholarships.

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Part-time home students: £8,130 per year Full-time home students: £16,260 per year Part-time international students: £12,000 per year Full-time international students: £24,000 per year