Program Overview

International Economics, Banking and Finance (MSc)

Overview

The International Economics, Banking and Finance programme is designed for students with a basic knowledge of economics who wish to broaden their knowledge base for a career in banking, fund management, investment banking, corporate treasury, and other financial sector roles.

Duration and Mode

• Duration: 1 year
• Mode: Full time

Start Date

• 28 September 2026

Why Study This Course

This programme focuses on understanding the behaviour of banks and other financial institutions, drawing on the principles of microeconomics and the dynamics of the international macroeconomic environment. It provides a thorough understanding of how money, banking, and finance interact and operate in the domestic and international economy. Students will develop analytical and descriptive skills required for a future career in banking and financial sectors.

Accreditations

• Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Where You'll Study

• Cardiff Business School

Admissions Criteria

To be considered for an offer, applicants must meet all entry requirements, including:

1. A 2:2 honours degree in a subject with a quantitative background.
2. A copy of the IELTS certificate with an overall score of 6.5 and 5.5 in all subskills, or evidence of an accepted equivalent.

Course Structure

The programme consists of core and optional modules, including:

• Research Dissertation (IEBF)
• Principles of Finance
• Macroeconomics
• Microeconomics
• Quantitative Methods
• International Banking
• Principles of Money and Banking (optional)

Learning and Assessment

• Teaching Methods: Lectures, small group teaching in tutorials and workshops.
• Assessment: Formal assessment tasks, including in-class tests, exams, essays, presentations, and individual and group projects.

Support

Students will receive support through:

• Learning Central: A virtual learning environment.
• Libraries: Access to hard and electronic copies of books, journals, and databases.
• Personal Tutor: Oversight of learning and educational experiences.
• Postgraduate Student Hub: First point of contact for programme queries.
• Student Support Officer: Impartial, non-judgemental, and confidential support.

Tuition Fees for 2026 Entry

• Home Status: ｣13,950 (Year one), with no deposit required.
• Overseas Status: ｣31,700 (Year one), with a ｣2,500 deposit.

Funding

• Master's Scholarships: Available for UK students.
• Postgraduate Loans: Available for students starting in September 2026 or later.
• Alumni Discount: Available for Cardiff University graduates.

Careers and Placements

The programme benefits from relationships with multinationals, micro-businesses, social enterprises, and cooperatives, providing:

• Real-world case studies and insights.
• Guest lectures.
• Field trips and workshops. There are no placement opportunities on this programme. Graduates have gone on to work in the European Commission, Eurobank, Bank of England, and Chinese financial institutions, among others.