Course overview

Delivered by the triple-accredited Aston Business School, our MSc Finance programme offers a comprehensive finance education, focusing on developing your analytical and quantitative skills. This programme blends practical training with academic learning, giving hands-on experience with industry-standard financial software. You will gain a thorough understanding of financial principles, enhancing your decision-making and problem-solving abilities.

Taught by leading academics with rich industry experience, the programme offers practical insights into the financial world in a supportive, engaging environment. This approach brings the course content to life, preparing you for various financial roles post-graduation.

Improving our students’ learning experience and wellbeing is at the centre of everything we do, and that is why we are implementing an innovative learning approach known as block teaching. This will enhance our students’ educational journey and emotional wellbeing.

Oliver Wheeler MSc Finance graduate

“Aston [University] gave me the opportunity to gain work experience through the Aston Global Advantage module. I was awarded a scholarship and took part in the virtual internship scheme, working for a start-up private equity fund in London.”

Read more

Oliver Wheeler
MSc Finance
Private bank analyst, JPMorgan Chase and Co.

Why Finance at Aston University?

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Joint 11th the UK
Aston Business School is ranked joint 11th the UK (Eduniversal Business School Rankings 2024)
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Recognised for quality
Aston Business School is proud to be among 1% of business schools worldwide with triple accreditation
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Safe in our hands
Ranked top 10 in the UK for ‘graduate prospects – on track’ (Accounting and Finance; Complete University Guide, 2024)
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6th in the UK
We have been ranked 6th in the UK (Corporate Finance; Eduniversal Best Masters Rankings, 2024)
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66th in the world
We’ve been ranked as 66th in the world for business and management studies (QS World University Rankings By Subject 2024)
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Top 100 in Europe
We've been ranked 17th in the UK and 97th in Europe (Financial Times European Business Schools ranking 2024)

Course description

MSc Finance

Our MSc Finance programme combines advanced financial theory and practical skills, preparing you for a diverse range of careers in the global financial sector and beyond.

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What we will provide
Expert-led education at our triple-accredited business school, enriched with research-based content and interactive teaching. The Aston Global Advantage module is designed to enhance your employability through robust industry connections and key placement opportunities. Experience hands-on learning, including access to Bloomberg trading terminals, for practical insights into the field.

We are also an Adobe Creative Campus meaning you will have access to top-notch software licenses, including Adobe and Solidworks, commonly used in industry.

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What you will provide
It is important to learn how to adopt a growth mindset in your studies, understanding that intelligence and success stem from applying yourself, willingness to learn and having ambition and drive to excel. 

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What skills we teach
The MSc Finance programme sharpens critical skills for navigating complex financial landscapes, with a focus on quantitative analysis, strategic decision-making and hands-on experience with Bloomberg terminals. You will have the opportunity to learn essential programming languages like Python, enhancing your analytical capabilities. This comprehensive skillset, teamwork and practical understanding prepare you for diverse financial roles post-graduation.

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Career prospects
As an Aston University Finance graduate, your career prospects extend beyond traditional finance roles. While well-suited for banking, investment and risk analysis, your skills also open doors to consulting, fintech and entrepreneurial ventures, offering a versatile path in the evolving financial landscape.

How you will learn

Our MSc Finance programme has been carefully designed to align with the demanding standards and dynamic nature of the global financial industry. This programme is tailored to equip you with an extensive understanding of finance, combined with practical skills and analytical prowess, setting you up for a successful and rewarding career in the financial sector.

This programme has a strong practical element. You’ll gain hands-on experience working with real-time financial, accounting and economic data, thanks to our dedicated trading room facility and industry leading software. This exposure will give you the confidence and technical capability to gain a competitive edge in the job market.

In the Aston Global Advantage module, you will gain a competitive edge by honing your professional skills and preparing for success in a fast-paced global environment. You will tackle real-world challenges, dive into entrepreneurship and work on team-based business simulations.

At the start of your course, you will be allocated a personal tutor who can offer individual study advice and guidance. You will also benefit from access to the University Library's extensive collection of over 25,000 books and electronic journals.

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Gain the advantage

Our flagship professional development module provides a range of opportunities to apply your learning and increase your employability.

What you will learn

Our programme delves into the intricacies of financial markets, investment strategies and risk management, focusing on practical financial analysis and decision-making skills.

During the taught stage, you will master advanced finance theories and models, develop analytical and econometric skills for data-driven insights, and understand international investment strategies. You will also learn to evaluate financial regulations, assess market risks and apply effective risk management techniques. This foundation prepares you for practical financial decision-making and sets the stage for your in-depth research project.

In the dissertation phase, you will complete a research project on a finance topic of your choice, showcasing your ability to conduct independent research with a clear consideration of ethics, theory and methods.

Lan Xu MSc Finance graduate

Well balanced

Reflecting on her time at Aston University, Lan Xu described her course as “well balanced in terms of theory and practice” with lecturers who were “very helpful”.

Postgraduate courses

Learn business, do business

Our classroom goes beyond traditional lectures, focusing instead on real-life projects and hands-on experiences.

Course objectives

  1. Provides a rigorous learning experience designed to develop technical expertise and analytical skills necessary for tackling complex financial challenges. 
  2. Equips students from diverse academic backgrounds with advanced knowledge and specialist skills necessary for successful careers in the financial sector, including financial analysis, risk managing, and investment banking.
  3. Equips you with advanced research capabilities and technical proficiency in finance software and databases, fostering analytical skills that align with the evolving demands of the finance industry.
  4. Promotes critical thinking on corporate responsibility, sustainability, and ethics, encouraging you to reflect on your positions and integrate these principles into your finance careers.
  5. Prepares you to operate effectively in the evolving global financial landscape by fostering an understanding of financial practices.
  6. Provides you with the opportunity to enhance your employability skills by equipping you with key professional skills and competencies required for success in a global business context.

Modules

Modules and programme outcomes

Taught stage modules

In the taught stage you will study the following core modules in Term 1:

Module TitleCredits
Derivatives
This module offers a comprehensive understanding of derivative markets and the valuation of financial instruments. You will acquire employability skills by learning to apply no-arbitrage pricing techniques and implement trading and hedging strategies using derivatives. The module fosters an enterprising approach through practical applications and real-world scenarios involving exotic options and interest rate derivatives. Experiential learning is embedded through case studies and quantitative exercises, allowing students to develop critical skills in financial modelling and risk assessment. The module also addresses ESG considerations, focusing on the governance and ethical implications of derivative trading. 
15
Introduction to Financial Econometrics
This module immerses you in the practical application of econometric techniques, using statistical software to analyse financial data and address real-world challenges in finance. You will apply econometric models to financial datasets, gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard statistical software. The module emphasises experiential learning, where you engage in data-driven projects that mirror real-world challenges, enhancing your employability and fostering innovation. 
15

You will choose one of the following optional modules:*

Module TitleCredits
Corporate Treasury and Financial Analysis
This module introduces you to financial analysis and treasury management, helping you make smart financial decisions and offer strategic advice. You will learn how to evaluate different finance options and support decision-making by studying financial statements. The module also focus on the corporate treasury management function, teaching you how to handle cash flow, liquidity, and financial risks like currency and interest rate changes. With a focus on both theory and practical skills, you will gain useful financial management abilities for the workplace.
15
Python for Finance
This module introduces you to Python, a powerful tool for data analysis and financial problem-solving. Through hands-on learning, you will develop Python programming skills tailored to finance, enhancing employability with a highly sought-after skill set. Projects reflect industry challenges, fostering innovative, and data-driven solutions. This module is essential for bridging the gap between theory and practical application, preparing you for advanced challenges in finance. 
15

In Term 2 you will study the following core modules:

Module TitleCredits
Private Equity and Venture Capital
This module equips you with a comprehensive understanding of the distinctions and significance of private equity and venture capital in the financial landscape. You will explore various exit strategies and post-investment valuation methods, enhancing their ability to assess the performance of investments. The module covers essential company valuation techniques, enabling you to evaluate start-ups and mature companies accurately. Additionally, you will learn about deal structuring, including negotiation tactics and terms that shape successful investments. 
15
Advanced Corporate Finance
This modules provides you with a deep understanding of key financial concepts essential for corporate decision-making. You will learn to calculate cost of capital and apply investment appraisal techniques, including the evaluation of real options, to assess project viability. The module covers capital structure theories, enabling you to analyse optimal financing strategies for firms. Additionally, you will explore payout policies, understanding how dividend decisions impact shareholder value. Lastly, a focus on corporate governance teaches you the importance of ethical practices and regulatory frameworks in fostering sustainable business growth.
15
The Aston Global Advantage
The Aston Global Advantage is our professional development programme that runs throughout all MSc programmes at Aston Business School. Focusing on professional development and employability, this integrated module gives you the opportunity to identify, develop and apply the key transferrable skills you will gain throughout the year.
15

In Term 3 you will study the following core modules:

Module TitleCredits
Fixed Income Securities
Explore the dynamic field of fixed income securities in this module designed for aspiring finance professionals. You will develop a robust understanding of fixed income instruments, applying analytical techniques to value bonds and manage interest rate risks through practical financial modelling. The module fosters enterprise by encouraging innovative problem-solving in bond portfolio management and enhances employability through engagement with real-world financial scenarios. The module promotes responsible and ethical decision-making through advanced risk management of these securities. 
15
Risk Management
This module provides you with an advanced understanding the multiple sources of risk faced by companies in the two main categories: operational and financial risks. It develops the basic models for risk measurement and control. The mathematical models and methodology will be integrated with empirical evidence to provide you with the tools to operate as a risk manager in the financial industry. In addition, students will develop a critical understanding of the limitations and risks associated with the advancements of financial technology and the changing regulatory environment.
15
Applied Research Methods and Skills
This is an exciting opportunity for you to develop key problem solving and research skills which will allow you to follow your passion, use the strengths and interests developed during your degree, and creatively learn how ethically to explore this. This module equips managers and leaders of the future with the skills critically to evaluate research-based information. It covers various research methods and techniques, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses.
15

*Availability of any optional modules will be subject to staff availability and a minimum number of students who express an interest in studying the optional modules. 

Dissertation stage modules

In the dissertation stage you will study the following core modules:

Module TitleCredits
Independent Project
The research project offers a unique opportunity for you to take the initiative and dive deep into a specific topic, fostering personal and academic growth. Building on the foundational knowledge gained in the taught portion of the programme, this module sharpens essential analytical and academic skills for lifelong learning in today's dynamic business landscape. By conducting independent empirical or theoretical research, you gain a deeper understanding of their chosen subject and contribute to the field. Additionally, this module serves as a stepping stone for those considering further research degrees.
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Programme outcomes

On successful completion of both the taught and dissertation stage, you will be able to:

  • Critically evaluate and apply complex finance theories, models, and techniques to aid financial decision-making for both financial managers and investors.
  • Asses key risks in market contexts and apply appropriate risk management techniques to mitigate or hedge against these risks.
  • Develop and apply rigorous analytical and econometric methodologies using empirical data to support financial decision-making.
  • Critically evaluate financial theories and their application in the real-world.
  • Critically appraise international market dynamics and capital structures to advise firms and investors on optimal investment decision in private equity and venture capital.
  • Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts underlying strategic financial decisions to support long-term corporate growth and sustainability.
  • Critically evaluate and apply a diverse set of transferable skills essential for a successful career in Finance, contributing to enhanced employability.
  • Undertake independent research by formulating well-defined research questions, critically evaluating and applying appropriate research techniques, and drawing informed conclusions and recommendations.

We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.


 

Entry requirements

One of the following:

  • 2:1 (upper second-class honours) degree or equivalent
  • Equivalent overseas degree recognised by Aston University (see international students tab below for more information)

Subject specific requirements

We encourage applications from those with a background in economics, engineering, finance, mathematics, statistics or related disciplines. However, if you do not hold a degree in one of these subjects, you may still be eligible for the programme if you can evidence prior studies in mathematics or statistics within your degree or at A Level for home students. Prior studies in mathematics/statistics/quantitative modules should be at a minimum grade of 50%.

You will also need to provide:

  • A professional reference
    • If you are a current student or recent graduate (within the last 2-3 years), we will ask for an academic reference
    • If you are currently employed and not a recent graduate, we will ask for a professional reference
  • An official academic transcript of your university grades to date
  • A completed application form.

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our postgraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study but also a great place to live.

Qualifications in your country

For details of equivalent qualifications in your country, use our area pages below:

English language requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

How to apply

Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.

Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.

Find out more about applying

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Graduate Immigration Route

Pathway programmes

If you don’t meet our entry requirements, we have a range of pathway programmes offered by our partner, ONCAMPUS Aston, which you can complete to progress onto one of our degrees.

We recognise the value of extensive professional experience. If you do not have the academic qualifications but have extensive and relevant professional experience and a proven ability to succeed, we would welcome your application.

The information contained on this website details the typical entry requirements for this course for the most commonly offered qualifications.

Applicants with alternative qualifications may wish to enquire with the relevant admissions teams prior to application whether or not their qualifications are deemed acceptable. For less commonly encountered qualifications this will be judged on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the academic admissions tutor.

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Speak to our Admissions Team

If you have any questions about the application process please get in touch with our postgraduate admissions team:

Email: pgadmissions@aston.ac.uk

Call: 0121 204 3200 (Please note this line is open Monday-Friday between 09:30-16:30)

Aya Ghalayini MSc Finance programme director

Meet your programme director

Dr Aya Ghalayini
Programme Director, MSc Finance

If you have any questions about the course or modules you will be studying, you can get in touch via email and I will be happy to answer your queries.

Fees and scholarships

Course fees

UK students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:£12,000

International students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:£23,500

More information on fees

The United Kingdom government has confirmed that European Union (EU), other European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals commencing academic courses in England from August 2021 will no longer be charged the same tuition rates as UK students.

Tuition fees for students are reviewed annually and may increase in subsequent years in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI) to take account of the University’s increased costs of delivering the Programme. Any such increase shall always be in accordance with the law. When undertaking a placement year, a placement year fee applies.

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Assessment

You will be assessed through a combination of written and oral examinations, class tests, individual and group coursework, projects, presentations and practical assessments.

Career prospects

The transferable skills that our finance programmes provide mean that our graduates are successful in finding employment in a wide range of roles such as:

  • Fund manager
  • Banker
  • Operations executive
  • Commercial accountant
  • Investment banking analyst
  • Financial analyst
  • Financial consultant
  • Foreign investment specialist
  • Auditor

Our graduates have gone on to work at companies such as J.P.Morgan Chase, Deloitte, Deutsche Bank, Ernst and Young, GE Healthcare, Industrial Commerical Bank of China, JDX Consulting, Morgan Stanley, Infosys and Amazon.

Paras Khistriya MSc Finance graduate

Persistence pays

Paras Khistriya proves that hard work pays off, advising others to “keep going until you hit the jackpot and always have positive people around you”.

Our graduates achieve amazing things all over the world – whether it’s setting up their own businesses, landing jobs with high profile organisations, or making real differences within their communities.

Hear from our graduates

 

Alumni

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.

Frequently asked questions

Why study Finance at Aston University?

As well as a strong understanding of the methods and models in finance, you’ll get to develop skills in high demand in the financial sector and more broadly in business with practical experiences and applying your learning to real world situations.

You’ll gain a breadth of practical learning and professional experience, whether that’s providing support to live projects, undertaking an internship or a study abroad opportunity. Not only does this bring your learning to life, it will really help you to progress to your next step once you complete the course.

What is the ‘Aston Global Advantage’?

Embedded in all our masters degrees, this assessed module aims to develop professional and personal transferrable skills relevant to any workplace and create a bridge between the degree and the world of work.

The Aston Global Advantage

Why should I study my postgraduate degree at Aston University?

There are lots of benefits of studying a postgraduate degree at Aston University.

Watch this video from MBA student, Monique, who talks about just a few of them:

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

  • Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
  • Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
  • World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
  • Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
  • Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
  • Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham

What will my timetable look like?

We understand how important it is to know your timetable in advance for planning around work, childcare, or other responsibilities. Here's some basic guidance on what to expect regarding your student timetable.

Full-time programmes
As a rough estimate, full-time postgraduate students in the College of Business and Social Sciences should expect to spend about 12-15 hours per week in lectures and on-campus seminars. This is in addition to independent study, and there may be additional guided learning activities during certain weeks. The exact distribution of these hours will vary depending on your course and module choices.
Part-time programmes
Part-time students will have fewer weekly on-campus hours compared to full-time students. This reduction is proportional to the number of modules you're enrolled in.
Timetable availability
Complete timetables are usually released shortly before the start of your programme. This timing is necessary to ensure that we accommodate all course requirements and that rooms are allocated based on the number of students likely to enrol on each programme. We aim to provide these timetables as early as possible, to assist you in your planning.

As your induction week approaches, you will be sent more information about your timetable via email, and you will be able to access your timetable by logging into MyAstonPortal. For any further queries or information regarding your timetable, you can reach out to your programme director or the Student Support team.

Online/distance learning programmes
The above information also applies to students enrolled in online/distance learning programmes. Please note that both full-time and part-time distance learning students are still required to attend scheduled synchronous learning sessions.

MyAstonPortal

What can I get involved in at Aston Business School?

At Aston Business School, you will dive into a dynamic blend of innovative learning and hands-on experiences. With our acclaimed triple-crown accreditation, we offer you academic excellence and a track record of producing successful graduates.

Located in Birmingham, the UK's vibrant second city, Aston Business School provides you with a culturally rich environment and superb connectivity. You will benefit from real-world business engagements, international study opportunities and entrepreneur support programmes like BSEEN and Pitchfest.

You can also engage in practical consultancy at the Aston Business Clinic and collaborate with global peers in events such as the Maastricht Case Competition or the Universities Business Challenge. Our partnership with The Prince’s Trust, alongside a range of student clubs including TEDx and Enactus further enriches your learning experience.

Discover more

Say Hello to students at Aston University

Hello, what would you like to ask us?

Hello! We are a team of current Aston University students from various parts of the world, studying a wide range of postgraduate subjects.

Feel free to ask us anything about studying at Aston University.

Chat to our students

 

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