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Postgraduate Taught

MSc Finance

Please note: The below is for 2025 entries. Click here for 2024 entries.
UCAS code 1234
Duration 1 year full time
Entry year 2025
Campus Streatham Campus
Discipline Finance
Contact

Web: Enquire online
Phone (UK):
0300 555 6060
Phone (International):
+44 (0)1392 723044

 

Typical offer

View full entry requirements

A 2:1 or above with honours in Accounting, Finance, Investment, Economics, Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, Physics, Maths or related discipline from a recognised university. 

Contextual offers

Overview

  • For students interested in pursuing a career in investment banking or asset management, you’ll study advanced financial theory and acquire expertise in investment analysis and fund management within one of very few finance programmes globally to be awarded CFA® ‘University Affiliation Program’ status
  • Boost your employability with a dedicated careers module, a week-long international study trip to one or two of our global partner universities, and the option to take two levels of the CFA exams with dedicated support from the Business School.
  • You will be challenged with an academically rigorous curriculum supported by practical experiences to ensure you gain the skills demanded by global organisations
  • Enjoy access to our 24/7 finance lab hosting major databases including Bloomberg and Thomson Reuters
  • Participate in the Business School Ethics Challenge analysing CFA case studies, and apply to the Global CFA Investment Research Challenge judged by CFA experts.

CFA® and Chartered Financial Analyst® are registered trademarks owned by CFA Institute.

Apply online

View 2024 Entry

Fast Track (current Exeter students)

Open days and visiting us

Get a prospectus

Contact

Programme Director: Dr Wei-Ming Lee

Email: W.Lee2@exeter.ac.uk

Phone: +44 (0)1392 72 72 72

Discover MSc Finance at the University of Exeter.

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UK Business School of the Year

Times Higher Education Awards 2022

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Triple accredited Business School

AMBA, AACSB, EQUIS

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Ranked 4th in the UK for overall satisfaction

Financial Times Global Masters in Finance rankings 2023 

Briefcase icon

One of very few finance programmes globally to be awarded CFA® ‘University Affiliation Program’ status

Trophy icon

UK Business School of the Year

Times Higher Education Awards 2022

Rosette with tick in icon

Triple accredited Business School

AMBA, AACSB, EQUIS

Rosette icon

Ranked 4th in the UK for overall satisfaction

Financial Times Global Masters in Finance rankings 2023 

Briefcase icon

One of very few finance programmes globally to be awarded CFA® ‘University Affiliation Program’ status

Entry requirements

A 2:1 or above with honours in Accounting, Finance, Investment, Economics, Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, Physics, Maths or related discipline. Evidence of mathematical/quantitative* ability is essential. The majority of our candidates will be expecting a 2:1 degree, however, we do consider all applications where there is evidence of exceptional performance in modules relevant to the programme of study, significant relevant work experience or professional qualifications such as CFA, ACCA, ICAEW, ICAS and CIMA.

Prerequisites

In order to apply for the MSc Finance candidates must be able to demonstrate strengths in: Finance, Accounting, Economics and Mathematics.

*Mathematics modules may include, for example, Algebra, Calculus, Econometrics, Statistics, Probability or Optimisation.

Pre-Masters programme for international students

The Graduate Diploma in Finance run by the INTO University of Exeter Centre is a pre-Masters programme designed to enhance your subject knowledge, study skills and English ability. Successful completion of the Diploma (subject to achieving the specific grades of entry) gives students from overseas the skills needed for acceptance onto this Masters programme.

Entry requirements for international students

Please visit our entry requirements section for equivalencies from your country and further information on English language requirements.

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Entry requirements for international students

English language requirements

International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B2. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country.

One aspect I truly appreciate is how the module leads connect academic concepts with real-life applications. For example, they often integrate current financial news into our learning and use live financial portals to demonstrate valuation processes. This practical approach has not only deepened my understanding, but also prepared me to face real challenges in the ever-dynamic finance industry.

The Certified Financial Analyst (CFA) exam support provided by my course was incredible, and I also received a specific CFA scholarship from the University. Thanks to this support, I was able to complete the CFA Level 1 & Level 2 exams which I believe will help me to have a competitive edge over finance students in other universities.

Read more from Namit

Namit

MSc Finance

Course content

This programme is a 12-month full-time programme, studied over three terms, and is University-based throughout this time. The taught components of the programme are delivered in the first two terms, with the third term, and most of the summer, either researching and writing a dissertation/project, or learning python through the coding analytic course, or study abroad through the newly introduced summer programme.

We also offer an intensive three-week induction programme in September for the CFA prep programme delivered by CFA® trainers designed to provide specific help and training for students sitting the CFA® exams.

The programme, including the three-week induction course, runs from September to September.

The intensive induction course will commence at the very beginning of September.

If you choose to work towards Levels I and II of the CFA examinations, we will give you dedicated support including:

  • Rebate on the examination fees for the Levels I and II*
  • Three-week introduction and training boot camp held at the beginning of September
  • Dedicated workshops and events delivered by CFA® Practitioners
  • CFA Scholarships to be awarded to students with outstanding academic record

*Subject to providing a valid receipt

  • During the programme you will study modules (including the dissertation) totalling 180 credits.
  • To ensure a high level of coverage of the CFA® syllabus all of the modules on this programme are compulsory.
  • Please note that modules are subject to change.
  • Descriptions of the individual modules are given in full on the Business School postgraduate module list.

Compulsory modules

135 credits of compulsory modules

a You must choose one of the following modules BEFM025, BEFM027, BEAM101 or BEMM392

b BEFM028 is compulsory for those wishing to sit the CFA examinations

CodeModule Credits
BEFM024 Professional Standards and Development 15
BEAM031 Financial Instruments 15
BEAM046 Financial Modelling 15
BEFM011 Financial Statement Analysis 15
BEFM022 Quantitative Research Methods 15
BEFM016 Equity Valuation Models and Issues 15
BEFM015 Portfolio Management and Asset Allocation 15
BEFM028 CFA Training and Development [See note b above]0
FAFM dissertation 24-25 [See note a above]
BEAM101 Sustainable Finance Project 30
BEFM025 Applied Project 30
BEFM027 Dissertation 30
BEMM392 Summer School 30

Optional modules

45 credits of optional modules:

c Students must choose BEAM101 and 30 credits from this group to gain a with ‘Sustainable Finance’ Pathway.

CodeModule Credits
MSc FAFM 24-25 optional modules
BEFM017 Credit Instruments and Derivatives 15
BEAM050 Advanced Corporate Finance 15
BEAM053 Mergers, Management Buyouts and Other Corporate Reorganisations 15
BEAM065 Bank Management 15
BEAM079 Coding Analytics for Accounting and Finance 30
BEEM061 Fundamentals of Financial Technology 15
Sustainable Finance pathway modules [See note c above]
BEAM102 Financial Institutions' Risk Management 15
BEAM103 Climate Finance and Investments 15
BEAM104 Sustainable and Responsible Finance 15
BEAM052 Corporate Governance and Finance 15

This pathway allows you to select specific modules that will allow you to graduate in MSc Finance with Sustainable Finance.

The Sustainable Finance pathway will equip you to embed green and sustainable finance principles and practice into your advice, analysis, actions and decision. The finance industry is increasingly recognising the importance of integrating sustainability considerations into decision-making processes and companies, investors, and regulators are seeking professionals who possess both financial expertise and knowledge of sustainable practices. This pathway will provide you with specialist skills in this area.

You will learn from research expertise developed within the Exeter Sustainable Finance Centre, which will introduce you to cutting-edge theory and practice in sustainable and responsible finance. Leading academics actively engaged in research on climate finance, environment and sustainability will deliver these modules, which are designed to give insight into theory that has been important in shaping agendas relating to global sustainability.

During the summer, you will conduct a Sustainable Finance Project to solve real-world problems and create positive impact, leading to a sustainable future world through transformative research, education and engagement.

Students must study BEAM101 Sustainable Finance Project (30 credits) and choose another 30 credits from:

Code Module title Credits
BEAM052 Corporate Governance and Finance 15
BEAM103 Climate Finance and Investments 15
BEAM102 Financial Institutions Risk Management 15
BEAM104 Sustainable and Responsible Finance 15

If you opt for our With Industrial Experience programme, you’ll get the opportunity to put into practice some of the skills you’ve already developed in your first year. This means that you’ll gain greater confidence, as well as practical experience, which you can take forward as part of your plans after graduation.  

What’s more, your placement will give you a proven employment track record and professional networking opportunities, which will give you a significant advantage when you set out to find your first graduate job. 

For more information about the with Industrial Experience Year, please visit our FAQ page.

135 credits of compulsory modules

a   You must choose one of the following modules BEFM025, BEFM027, BEAM101 or BEMM392

b   BEFM028 is compulsory for those wishing to sit the CFA examinations

Compulsory modules

CodeModule Credits
BEFM024 Professional Standards and Development 15
BEAM031 Financial Instruments 15
BEAM046 Financial Modelling 15
BEAM011 Investment Analysis 20
BEAM022 Banking and Financial Services 20
BEFM016 Equity Valuation Models and Issues 15
BEFM015 Portfolio Management and Asset Allocation 15
BEFM028 CFA Training and Development [See note b above]0
FAFM dissertation 24-25 [See note a above]
BEAM101 Sustainable Finance Project 30
BEFM025 Applied Project 30
BEFM027 Dissertation 30
BEMM392 Summer School 30

Optional modules

45 credits of optional modules:

c  Students must choose BEAM101 and 30 credits from this group to gain a with ‘Sustainable Finance’ Pathway.

 

CodeModule Credits
MSc FAFM 24-25 optional modules
BEFM017 Credit Instruments and Derivatives 15
BEAM050 Advanced Corporate Finance 15
BEAM053 Mergers, Management Buyouts and Other Corporate Reorganisations 15
BEAM065 Bank Management 15
BEAM079 Coding Analytics for Accounting and Finance 30
BEEM061 Fundamentals of Financial Technology 15
Sustainable Finance pathway modules [See note c above]
BEAM102 Financial Institutions' Risk Management 15
BEAM103 Climate Finance and Investments 15
BEAM104 Sustainable and Responsible Finance 15
BEAM052 Corporate Governance and Finance 15

Fees

2025/26 entry

UK fees per year:

  • £19,900 full-time
  • With Industrial Experience (second year): £3,980 full-time

International fees per year:

  • £35,000 full-time
  • With Industrial Experience (second year): £7,000 full-time

Scholarships

We invest heavily in scholarships for talented prospective Masters students. This includes over £5 million in scholarships for international students, such as our Global Excellence Scholarships*.

For more information on scholarships, please visit our scholarships and bursaries page.

*Selected programmes only. Please see the Terms and Conditions for each scheme for further details.

Teaching and research

Our postgraduate taught programmes utilise a range of teaching methods including lectures, seminars and tutorials. Our lectures are typically taught in a large lecture theatre, but you’ll be split into smaller groups for seminars, workshops, or tutorials.

Lectures

The aim of lectures is to give you information on ideas that are central to the module and to help you in developing your understanding of complex ideas. Many of the teaching materials for lectures are made available to you electronically to accompany the notes you take during the lecture. Lectures are given by a range of staff members, including leading professors, who integrate their latest research findings into the teaching that you receive. Guest lecturers, including senior experts from industry, also contribute to some modules.

Seminars and tutorials

Seminars and tutorials involve an in-depth exploration of the issues covered in lectures as well as giving you the opportunity to discuss various concepts and theories and receive feedback on your written assignments.

Practical case study classes and workshops

Practical case study computer-based classes are an integral part of the programme built within many modules, where students are able to apply specialist knowledge and quantitative analytical skills to solve complex financial problems under the guidance from our industry-leading faculty

Training workshops

An intensive financial database and technology training workshop covering most widely used databases such as Bloomberg, S&P capital IQ, Refinitiv Eikon, WRDS, with application in STATA, R, Matlab or Phyton

A company analysis workshop run by an industry practitioner to help develop practical investment understanding, augment presentation skills and provide an insight into current real-world information

Research-led teaching

Our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021.

MSc Finance is underpinned by the research that is undertaken by our world-leading faculty. As students of the programme, you will be part of this vibrant research community.

We are a research intensive faculty and cover a wide range of themes which inform our teaching. Our research is driven by the understanding that accounting and finance continues to play a fundamental role in organisations and society. As a result, many of our inspiring academics are regularly invited to advise policy-makers at institutions including H.M Revenue and Customs, International Accounting Standards Board, Financial Reporting Council, the Pensions Regulator, and the Bank of England.

Taught by leading experts

You will be taught by internationally respected academics who are at the forefront of their research. We draw upon disciplines across the social sciences and give emphasis to the dynamic nature of enterprise, global connectivity and the management and leadership of the global challenges that lie ahead.

The Business School is home to the following research centres

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The University of Exeter’s MSc Finance degree presented a programme that was different from many others I saw in the field of finance. You have the opportunity to earn a Masters degree and also prepare and partake in both Level I and II of the CFA® examinations.

Nazeema

MSc Finance

Careers

Preparing you for success

This Masters degree is designed to prepare you for a successful career, wherever in the world you plan to work. We’ll prepare you for your career by teaching you advanced communication and technical skills, team-working and independent research, project-management and the very latest specialist knowledge.

Career paths

Many of our graduates go into careers with some of the most well-known firms in the financial sector, including J.P. Morgan, HSBC, Deloitte, UBS, PWC, KPMG, and Fidelity.

Extensive careers support

Your employability is a main priority for us, so we offer a range of excellent career support and additional activities including:

  • A brand new Finance and Banking Career Management Module, designed exclusively for the programme. This module covers mock application proves and an overview of the roles you can look to progress into
  • You can extend your programme with the prestigious QTEM Network, taking part in a one-semester exchange, a 1.5-month internship and participation in the  QTEM Data Challenge leading to the QTEM certificate demonstrating your high-level analytical ability, work experience and international exposure
  • One-to-one appointments are available with our dedicated, highly qualified postgraduate careers consultants including CV workshops and mock interviews
  • Employer led workshops from top investment banks and financial service companies, to offer you advice and insights into their recruitment processes
  • Access to the Career Mentor Scheme to develop your professional goals by connecting with alumni in your chosen field
  • Weekly careers e-bulletins bringing you the latest career news and events
  • Financial database training leading to the award of the Bloomberg Market Concept (BMC) Certificate and the Thomson Reuters Product certificate upon completion
  • Academic / Research challenges give you the opportunity to participate in various events and challenges including the CFA(R) Investment Research Challenge, the Business School’s Ethics Challenge and the Bloomberg Investment Ideas Challenge.

Join our alumni network

After graduation, you will join our network of over 120,000 alumni who are making a real difference across the globe in fields including: find management, investment banking, corporate finance, trading and wealth management.

Developing your skills and career prospects

The University of Exeter Business School provides a range of support to help you develop skills attractive to employers. Visit our Business School careers service web page for more information.

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Enhance your degree with Study Abroad opportunities

QTEM Programme*

After your first year of studies at Exeter, you can progress onto the MSc Financial Economics. QTEM aims to prepare students with excellent quantitative and analytical skills to support their future careers as decision makers leading the global business environment.

If you are accepted onto the QTEM Programme, you will spend an additional semester studying at one of the prestigious academic partners. This will be followed by a quantitatively focussed internship and participation in the QTEM Data Challenge which includes online data science and leadership courses as well real data analysis.

Students will be selected and nominated to QTEM by the University of Exeter Business School following a competitive internal application process. Places are limited so we recommend you register your interest before applying for your Masters.

*Open to high achieving students enrolled in the following University of Exeter Business School programmes: QTEM Programme, MSc Finance, MSc Finance and Investment, MSc Economics, and MSc Business Analytics. 

For more information on QTEM and Double Degrees and other postgraduate study abroad opportunities, visit the Business School’s Study Abroad webpages.

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