PhD in Finance

Program Overview

The PhD/MPhil/MSc in Finance is a postgraduate research degree that combines taught modules with a research phase. It aims to equip students with advanced research methods, independent research skills, and the ability to analyze data and contribute to the field of finance. Graduates are highly sought after in academia, central banks, financial institutions, and other organizations.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The PhD/MPhil/MSc in Finance is a postgraduate research degree that combines a short taught component with a longer research phase. The program aims to facilitate the creation and interpretation of new knowledge by the research student, demonstrated through the thesis.

Objectives:

The program aims to equip doctoral researchers with the following capabilities:

• Broaden and deepen knowledge of research methods: The taught modules provide a comprehensive understanding of research methodologies.
• Conduct independent research: Students will develop the skills necessary to conduct their own research projects.
• Develop transferable professional skills: The program emphasizes the development of skills relevant to various professional settings.
• Analyze data using qualitative and quantitative techniques: Doctoral researchers will be proficient in analyzing diverse data using a range of methods.
• Explain theories underlying different approaches to social science research: Students will gain a deep understanding of the theoretical foundations of social science research.
• Participate actively in the academic community: Doctoral researchers are expected to engage in seminars, workshops, and conferences organized by the Department of Finance, the Business School, and external institutions.
• Characterize and solve business and financial problems: Students will be equipped to address complex business and financial challenges using advanced research tools.
• Derive policy implications and communicate findings effectively: Doctoral researchers will be able to translate their research into actionable policy recommendations and communicate them to various stakeholders.
• Peer review and offer constructive criticism: Students will develop the ability to critically evaluate the work of others and provide constructive feedback.
• Extend the frontiers of the discipline: The program encourages doctoral researchers to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of finance.

Outline:

• Structure: The program consists of a short taught component followed by a longer research phase.
• Taught Component:
• Year 1:
• Econometrics with Financial Applications:
A 30-credit module from the Department of Economics.
• MSc Investments: One of the existing MSc courses.
• MSc Accounting and Finance: One of the existing MSc courses.
• One other module: Chosen in agreement with the supervisor, relevant to the research topic.
• Modules Available:
• Financial Modelling and Forecasting Techniques:
20 credits.
• Empirical Topics in Accounting and Finance: 20 credits.
• Quantitative Methods in Finance: 10 credits.
• Advanced Training Modules: Recommended from the MA Social Research Programme or other relevant modules.
• Research Phase:
• Year 1:
Completion of an 8,000-word research proposal, presented and evaluated at the first annual review.
• Years 2 & 3: Supervised research leading to the production of an 80,000-word thesis.

Assessment:

• Taught Component: Assessment methods vary depending on the individual modules.
• Research Phase:
• Annual Reviews:
Evaluation of progress based on the research proposal and research activities.
• Thesis: The final assessment, comprising an 80,000-word dissertation.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and individual supervision.
• Faculty: The Department of Finance boasts a team of experienced and qualified faculty members who provide expert guidance and supervision.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths:
• Academia:
PhD graduates are well-prepared for academic careers at top universities.
• Central Banks: Graduates find employment in central banking institutions.
• Government Departments: Opportunities exist in various government departments.
• Financial Institutions: PhD graduates are sought after by a wide range of financial institutions.
• Accountancy Firms: Graduates can pursue careers in accounting firms.
• Supranational Organizations: Opportunities exist in international organizations.
• Multinational Corporations: PhD graduates are well-suited for roles in multinational corporations.

Other:

• Doctoral researchers are expected to achieve a substantial understanding of contemporaneous financial and business issues.