This MSc program in Investment and Financial Risk Management equips students with a deep understanding of risk in investment and finance. Developed in collaboration with industry professionals, it offers a practical curriculum that utilizes industry-standard databases and provides hands-on experience in a Bloomberg Trading Room. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in investment banking, trading, financial consultancy, and investment and portfolio management.

This MSc program in Investment and Financial Risk Management is designed for individuals seeking a career in risk management, particularly in managing investment portfolios and evaluating associated risks. Key program highlights include:

• Practical Application: Utilizes industry-standard databases, equipping students with the ability to analyze and explore topics using qualitative and quantitative methods.

Outline:

The program is structured over one year of full-time study, offering a second year with a professional placement as an optional path. It covers topics like:

• Insurance and reinsurance
• Financing property, net income, and personnel losses
• Accounting and income tax aspects of accidental losses
• Insurance pricing
• Selection of insurers and their representatives
• Implementing risk retention options
• Risk cost allocation
It covers:
• Valuation methods for derivative securities
• Mathematics behind derivatives and fixed income securities valuation
• Market calibration of alternative derivative models
It covers:
• Accounting, mathematical, and statistical foundations crucial for finance

Year 1: Teaching Block 2

• Portfolio Theory and Investment Banking (30 credits): This module provides a thorough understanding of modern portfolio theory and its application in asset pricing, asset management, and investment decisions.
Topics include:
• Portfolio diversification
• Optimal portfolio construction
• Expected utility theory
• Capital asset pricing model
• Arbitrage pricing theory
• Active and passive investment strategies
• Risk management for investment strategies
• Investment banks and their strategies
• Private equity investment
• Debt and equity underwriting
• Trading techniques
• Mergers and acquisitions
• Securitization
• Hedge funds
• Mutual funds
• Wealth management
• Clearance and settlement
• Portfolio construction and management with practical experience using the Bloomberg Trading Room

Year 1: Teaching Block 3

• Financial Statement Analysis (15 credits): This module develops critical knowledge of accounting principles and the analysis of financial statements using financial ratios and other metrics.
It covers:
• In-depth analysis of firms' strategic capabilities, risk, growth potential, and performance
• Relevance for careers in corporate or financial services sectors
• Analysis of financial institutions
• Management issues (capital, liability and liquidity management, product diversification)
• Banks' use of financial markets in risk management
• Development of computer and research skills needed in the banking sector

Year 2 (Optional):

• Dissertation and Research Methods (60 credits): This module introduces students to research methods and procedures, culminating in a dissertation.
It involves:
• Identifying, investigating, and analyzing a research problem
• Applying research tools to develop a dissertation
• Demonstrating familiarity with theory and research in the chosen area
• Critically reviewing and applying concepts and techniques
• Professional Placement (120 credits): This module provides a 12-month work placement opportunity for students after the first year.
It includes:
• Applying knowledge and skills in a work environment
• Developing employability skills and subject-specific skills
• Year 1: 90% coursework, 7% exams, 3% practical
• Professional Placement Year: 100% coursework

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: A combination of lectures, seminars, case studies, group projects, and presentations are employed to provide a comprehensive learning experience.

Careers:

Graduates from the Investment and Financial Risk Management MSc program are well-equipped for careers in investment banking, trading, financial consultancy, and investment and portfolio management. Potential roles include:

• Risk Manager
• Risk Analyst
• Investment Consultant
Past graduates have secured positions at organizations like:
• Moody's Analytics
• Ernst & Young
• Nordea
• Deutsche Asset & Wealth Management
• Protiviti Ltd
• Gulf International Bank
• Danske Bank
• Barclays
• Accenture

Other:

• Bloomberg Trading Room: Kingston University boasts a dedicated Bloomberg Trading Room, providing students with hands-on experience using industry-standard systems and real-time data.
• Assessment Centre Experience: Students participate in an Assessment Centre Experience, providing them with insights into the employment landscape and tailored feedback to enhance their employability skills.

Home 2025/26 MSc full time £13,500 International 2025/26 MSc full time £19,700 Home 2024/25 MSc full time £12,900 International 2024/25 MSc full time £18,900

Kingston University

Overview:

Kingston University London is a UK-based university recognized for its high-quality teaching and student experience. It features in the QS World University Rankings league table of the world's top universities.

Services Offered:

Kingston University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Guidance and resources for academic success.

Career Services:

Support in finding internships, jobs, and career development.

Accommodation:

On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.

Wellbeing Services:

Mental health support, counseling, and other resources.

International Student Support:

Dedicated services for international students, including visa assistance and cultural integration programs.

Library and Learning Resources:

Extensive library facilities and online learning resources.

Student Union:

A vibrant student union with clubs, societies, and social events.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Kingston University provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience. Students can expect:

Active Student Union:

Opportunities to join clubs, societies, and participate in social events.

Vibrant Campus Life:

A lively campus environment with a range of activities and events.

Supportive Community:

A welcoming and supportive community of students and staff.

Location Advantages:

Located in Kingston upon Thames, a historic town with excellent transport links to London.

Key Reasons to Study There:

TEF Gold Rating:

Recognized for its high-quality teaching and outstanding student experience.

Future Skills Focus:

Emphasis on developing future-ready skills through embedded modules in all undergraduate courses.

Strong Industry Links:

Close connections with businesses and industries, providing opportunities for internships and career development.

Diverse and Inclusive Environment:

Committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Academic Programs:

Undergraduate Study:

A wide range of undergraduate programs across various disciplines.

Postgraduate Study:

Master's and doctoral programs in various fields.

Research:

Active research programs with a focus on areas like healthcare, technology, and the arts.

Higher and Degree Apprenticeships:

Opportunities to combine work and study through apprenticeships.