Digital Finance and Data Analytics MSc

Program Overview

The MSc in Digital Finance and Data Analytics from Nottingham Trent University equips students with the skills to thrive in the evolving digital finance landscape. By combining traditional financial knowledge with advanced data analytics, machine learning, and FinTech applications, the program prepares graduates for roles such as equity trader, financial associate, and fund manager.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MSc in Digital Finance and Data Analytics is a postgraduate taught course offered by Nottingham Trent University. It is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the rapidly evolving digital finance landscape.

• Traditional financial markets: This includes an in-depth analysis of major markets, participants, and instruments in a global context.
• International financial institutions: The program explores the role of these institutions in the global financial system.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning: Students will learn about the application of these technologies in finance, including portfolio optimization, risk management, and fraud detection.
• Financial regulation: The program examines the regulatory landscape for digital finance and the challenges of regulating the FinTech sector.
• FinTech sector growth: Students will explore the growth and development of the FinTech sector, including its impact on traditional financial institutions.
• Coding, big data, and econometrics: The program provides students with practical skills in coding, data analysis, and econometrics, which are essential for success in digital finance.
The program culminates in a hands-on consultancy project, allowing students to apply their knowledge to real-world financial data.

Objectives:

The MSc in Digital Finance and Data Analytics aims to:

• Provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the digital finance landscape.
• Develop students' skills in data analytics, coding, and econometrics.
• Equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in various roles in digital finance and FinTech.
• Enhance students' understanding of the ethical and regulatory challenges associated with digital finance.
• Prepare students for a successful career in the digital finance industry.

Outline:

Semester One:

• Global Financial Markets (20 credits): This module provides a deep dive into the major markets, participants, and instruments in a global context.

Semester Two:

• Empirical Finance (20 credits): This module focuses on the process of data curation, model building, model calibration, and the derivation and interpretation of results in financial markets.
• Principles of Machine Learning in Finance (20 credits): This module introduces various techniques of machine learning and outlines their applications to market data.
• Contemporary Topics in Digital Finance (20 credits): This module examines the ethical issues associated with digital finance, the regulation of the FinTech space, and the link between digital finance and sustainability.

Semester Three:

• Consultancy Experience Project (40 credits): This project allows students to apply their knowledge to a real-world business situation, working as part of a team to conduct focused research, develop professional skills, and deliver results.

Ongoing Learning/Professional Development:

• Transformational Leadership Development (10 credits): This module focuses on developing students' understanding of how to manage their own continuous personal and professional development.
• Research Methods for Finance and Accounting (10 credits): This module develops students' skills as effective researchers in different contexts within the economics, finance, and accounting subject areas.

Assessment:

The program utilizes a range of assessment methods, including:

• Examinations: These assess students' understanding of key concepts and theories.
• Group presentations: These assess students' ability to work collaboratively and communicate their findings effectively.
• Essays: These assess students' critical thinking and writing skills.
• Reports: These assess students' ability to analyze data and present their findings in a clear and concise manner.
• Financial analyses: These assess students' ability to apply financial concepts and tools to real-world problems.
• Literature reviews: These assess students' ability to research and synthesize information from academic sources.
• Research-based projects: These assess students' ability to conduct independent research and present their findings in a professional manner.

Teaching:

The MSc in Digital Finance and Data Analytics is taught through a combination of:

• Lectures: These provide students with a theoretical foundation in the subject matter.
• Seminars: These provide opportunities for students to engage in discussion and debate with their peers and faculty.
• Workshops: These provide students with practical skills in data analysis, coding, and other relevant areas.
• Case studies: These provide students with real-world examples of how the concepts and theories they are learning are applied in practice.
• Guest lectures: These provide students with insights from industry experts.

Unique Approaches:

• Bloomberg Terminals: Students have access to Bloomberg Terminals in the dedicated Business Lab, providing them with real-time market data and analytical tools.
• Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC) Certificate: Students can complete the BMC certificate, a self-paced e-learning course that provides an introduction to the financial markets.
• Financial Markets Simulation Events: Students participate in simulation events delivered by Amplify Trading in association with Morgan Stanley, using the FlowTrader platform to experience different roles and operations within financial markets.
• Academic Mentors: Each postgraduate student is assigned an Academic Mentor who provides support and guidance throughout the year.

Careers:

Graduates from the MSc in Digital Finance and Data Analytics are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the digital finance and FinTech industries, including:

• Equity Trader and Analyst
• Financial Associate
• Investment Manager
• Tax Accountant
• Link Lounge: Students have access to the Link Lounge, a dedicated space for Business School students.

Home Fees:

• One year (full-time) - £11,900
• Two years (placement year) - £13,750 (£11,900 in year one and £1,850 in year two)

International / EU Fees:

• One year (full-time) - £20,250
• Two years (placement year) - £22,100 (£20,250 in Year One and £1,850 in Year Two)