Finance MSc

Study MSc Finance at Aston University to equip yourself with the financial knowledge and technical skills to kick-start a successful and rewarding career in the financial sector.

This challenging and exciting programme will advance your knowledge and understanding of finance, whilst helping you to develop a wide range of analytical and technical skills, which are in strong demand from employers in the finance and banking sector. By the end of your studies, you’ll be well-equipped to fulfil a variety of financial roles, both in private and public sector organisations.

Our teaching staff are committed to delivering an educational experience of the highest standard. You’ll be taught by leading academics who benefit from industry experience and a unique understanding of how the financial world works in practice. They will bring the course to life through a variety of inspiring and practical teaching methods, with all sessions being delivered in a friendly, supportive atmosphere.

During the summer term you will also have the opportunity to attend a workshop designed to help students taking the CFA® (Chartered Financial Analyst) Level I examination.

How will my knowledge and skills develop?

Our MSc Finance course covers a broad range of stimulating topics, including Blockchain and Fintech, Trading in Securities Markets, Advanced Corporate Finance, and International Finance. You’ll learn to appreciate the complex environment organisations operate within as well as how this can impact businesses financially. We’ll help you to develop a critical awareness and understanding of contemporary issues and theories relating to investments, financial instruments and corporate finance.

You’ll enhance your quantitative skills throughout the course using fintech integrated into various modules. We teach you how to apply appropriate mathematical and statistical tools using leading industry software’s like Python, STATA, eViews among others to aid financial decision-making.

You will also have access to Bloomberg trading terminals, allowing you to access Bloomberg market data, analytics and information. It provides simulation of what it is like to work in the financial industry and provide experience of a real life trading floor environment.

You’ll also develop a wide range of transferable skills which will help to further enhance your employability. Thanks to the diverse background of our students, you’ll work alongside people from across the world. This will develop your communication, teamwork, organisation and management skills in a multicultural context. These are highly regarded competences for graduate employers.

Practical experience

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. Your exposure to these practical tools and techniques will give you the confidence and technical capability to gain a competitive advantage over other graduates in the job market.

You’ll study The Aston Global Advantage module which focuses on professional development and employability, helping you to apply the key skills that you will gain throughout the year.

During The Aston Global Advantage you’ll also have the opportunity to study abroad with one of our international partners, undertake an internship placement in the UK or overseas or get involved in a global business challenge simulation.

Our courses offer a range of opportunities to gain practical experience through things such as consultancy projects and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Dissertation or Business Project

The course concludes with a Business Project or Dissertation, giving you the opportunity to analyse a business problem and practically apply the knowledge and skills developed during the course to outline your recommendations. This will also help to show prospective employers how you are able to impact their business.

This course offers an opportunity to study a second degree at one of our international partner institutions once you have completed your year at Aston. 

Modules

Core modules

Advanced Corporate Finance 

This module provides you with the opportunity to acknowledge a wide range of well-established finance theories, techniques, and frameworks through which firms optimize corporate finance decisions. Whenever possible, you will also learn about the key finance variables to consider in the evaluation of typical corporate finance decisions and their effect on firm value and financial performance.
 

Derivatives 

During this module you will gain an understanding of derivative markets and the pricing of contingent claims. You’ll be exposed to the pricing of forwards/futures standard and exotic option contracts, using discrete and continuous time models. This will help you to develop a clear understanding of how futures and option markets operate gaining practical experience applying various pricing techniques to future and options.
 

Fixed Income Securities 

This module provides coverage of the products and analytical techniques used for valuing bonds and quantifying their exposure to changes in interest rates, and portfolio strategies for achieving a client/investor's objectives. The cell-based and multi-factor approach is covered to identify the sources of risk of a portfolio.
 

Research Methods 

This module will bring you up to speed with the key statistical analysis techniques used for analysing data. The skills set you will develop will not only be relevant to draw inferences from various types of data for making policy recommendations or investment decisions, but will also lay the foundations for studying advanced econometric techniques.
 

Ethics in Academic Practice

This module provides an introduction to the Academic Offence framework. By completing the resources you will understand the key principles underpinning the submission of academic assignments. These principles can then be applied to the rest of the modules studied at the university.
 

Blockchain and Fintech 

Blockchain technologies has garnered immense attention in financial markets due to their value propositions in payments, insurance, lending and fundraising. It is the primary technology that underlies cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. This module will give you theoretical and technical knowledge of what blockchain technology is, its architecture and advantages, and the security challenges it poses.
 

Macro Economics
 

Private Equity and Venture Capital
 

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.
 

MSc Finance Research Project 

The MSc Finance Research Project is a chance for you to carry out an original piece of work applying material that you have learnt in the taught element of your degree. Specific requirements will be explained relating to different degree programmes but in summary you must demonstrate both theoretical and practical knowledge of your chosen area of specialism.

 

Optional modules

Trading Techniques 

We provide you with a detailed understanding of how financial markets work in practise and examine what affects market prices. You’ll learn how to interpret real-time news and macroeconomic data to assess the potential impacts on the prices of foreign exchange rates, stock market indices and commodities. Then using critical reasoning, identify the performance of financial assets.
 

International Finance

This module explores current challenges and issues faced by organisations in the global market place. We look at how the international financial environment can affect firms and their strategies, specifically what steps they take to negate these risks. For example, firms hedging against currency fluctuations.

Entry Requirements

One of the following:

• A good UK honours degree, minimum Upper Second Class (2:1)
• Equivalent overseas degree recognised by Aston University.

Subject-specific requirements

Applicants are also required to have taken the following quantitative modules at bachelor's level, achieving a minimum of 50%:

• Economics (micro/macro)
• Statistics
• Quantitative methods
• Mathematics
• Finance

As well as:

• Two professional references – at least one must be from an academic referee
• An official academic transcript of your university grades to date
• A completed application form.

International students

• An official academic transcript, with an official English translation, of your university grades to date.
   
• Students whose native language is not English will also need to satisfy our English language requirements. Pre-sessional English language programmes are available for good applicants whose English qualification falls just short of these requirements.
   
• Postgraduate masters students enrolling to Aston Business School with a 5.5 in one of the four IELTS sections will be required to engage with English language tuition as part of our professional development programme, The Aston Global Advantage. There will be no extra cost to the student.
   
• 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. 
   
• For more information about qualifications, view our Aston in your country webpage.

Extensive work experience

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.

Please note, if you do not meet the subject-specific requirements for this programme, you may be considered for an alternative programme which may be better suited to your academic/professional background. If you receive an offer for an alternative programme and do not wish to move forward with this, please contact the Admissions team at pgadmissions@aston.ac.uk.  

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 10am-4pm)

Please click here for guidance on completing the postgraduate application. 

Our programme directors are our experts

We use a variety of engaging teaching methods to ensure you get the most out of your studies.

Learning and teaching

There’s a mix of lectures, seminars, workshops and tutorials, which provide you with key concepts in investments, assets valuation and risk management techniques. The use of case studies will allow you apply your knowledge to various real-world scenarios, helping to deepen your understanding of the subject. We also focus on helping you to develop the applied skills needed for a career in corporate finance or investment banking. For example, you’ll take part in various workshops where you’ll gain experience working with trading software used in the banking sector. This will allow you to access real-time economic and financial data and gain hands-on experience in trading.

Our innovative online learning platform will also support you in your studies. It has all the digital resources you need when revising, including lecture slides, access to e-books and online journals, as well as video recordings of teaching sessions. Your lecturers will also be on hand to offer one-to-one support with any topics you have difficulty with.

• Trading Room – As part of the Derivatives module, you’ll get the chance to utilise our state-of-the-art trading room facility. You’ll gain hands-on experience working with software used in the banking sector to access real-time financial and economic data. You can observe market fluctuations as well as understand how to measure and manage financial risk.
   
• Case studies – We use real-life case studies across the programme to give you a better idea of the challenges faced when dealing with financial markets. The cases demonstrate contemporary and common issues in corporate finance or relating to financial markets, such as factors affecting securities prices, decisions relating to investment strategies, as well as the management of risk.

Assessment

We use a variety of assessment methods as part of this course. There’s a mix of exams, course work, presentations and group work. You’ll also undertake a Dissertation or Business Project at the end of the academic year, which involves significant research into a topic of your choice.

International students

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

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new immigration route which will enable international students to remain in the UK for two years after they have completed their studies, in order to find work. The new post-study work visa will apply to international students starting undergraduate and postgraduate courses from 2020 at universities with a track record of compliance with immigration policy.

Find out more about the post-study work visa.

Overseas opportunities

We benefit from an extensive network of partner institutions, including some of the highest ranked business schools in the world.

Placements

As part of this course you’ll have the opportunity to undertake a work placement and gain valuable professional experience.

You can go on a work placement for as little as one month or as long as a year. You’ll spend your time with a company of your choice, either in the UK or overseas. A work placement is incredibly beneficial for your future career prospects, it can enhance your CV and help you stand out from the competition when applying for graduate roles. It’s also fantastic opportunity to develop your understanding of your subject area by applying what you’ve learnt in the classroom to a professional context.

Our students have been successful in gaining work placements in a wide variety of organisations, both in the UK and internationally. They’ve worked for accountancy firms, financial institutions in the UK and overseas, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) as well as small businesses.

You’ll also be given the opportunity to support start-up businesses and SMEs with business projects through our Aston Business Clinic. Working with other students, you’ll collaborate to solve a strategic problem and make a real difference for a growing business.

Our award-winning careers team will be on hand to support you finding work placements and graduate positions. 

Placement case studies

Find out about Ememobong Etim’s placement as a Business Strategist and Development Analyst with Vitabonna Development Limited.

Find out about Suzhen Ye’s placement as an Assistant Marketing Director with First Plus Education.

Find out about Chloe Chan’s, Health Tech Services Internship at Holland & Barrett.

Find out about Piyushi Pawan’s placement as a Regional Marketing Coordinator for India, Aston University.

Universities Business Challenge Global Masters

All Aston University Business postgraduate students have the opportunity to take part in the Universities Business Challenge (UBC) Global Masters. The UBC Global Masters is a team-based business simulation event that provides participants with the opportunity to act as a board of directors, who have taken responsibility for improving the performance of a company. 

Trips and visits

We have a range of networking opportunities and guest speakers on campus throughout the year. Industry professionals working in a variety of positions including financial functions, will give you with an insight into their roles, responsibilities and challenges.

Graduate employers regularly visit campus throughout the year. You’ll be able to chat to companies about their graduate opportunities and get an insight into their selection process.

There’s also a number of field-trips and leisure activities that take place throughout the year, led by various University schools, societies and sports clubs.

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.

More information on fees and funding

UK postgraduate loans

If you're thinking about studying a masters course with us, you may be eligible for a postgraduate loan to help with course fees and living costs. 

Find out more here.

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. 

Find out more about our scholarships here.

Cost shouldn't limit your career aspirations, which is why we are delighted to offer all Aston University graduates (including exchange students) a 20% loyalty scholarship in standard taught MA, MSc and Full-time MBA course fees. Students who have completed their first degree at Aston University will receive an automatic scholarship when applying for their course. If you are not an Aston University graduate there is still a range of UK and international scholarships that you can apply for.

This means that as an Aston University graduate applying to our MSc Finance course, you could save...

As an Aston University graduate, you will automatically qualify. For more information visit our webpage.

A postgraduate qualification in this subject prepares you for many different careers within business including economics and the financial sector.

How will this course help my career?

This course is suitable for those intending to develop their careers in finance, broadly defined as: 

• Corporate finance 
• Security analysis 
• Portfolio/fund management 
• Financial decision making

This course is designed to enhance your employability prospects. Graduates from this programme have secured employment in a wide range of roles such as Analysts, Consultants and Investment Risk Officers. This has involved working for organisations including Goldman Sachs (UK), EY (France) and BNP Paribas (Luxembourg).

As well as being developed with industry experts through our advisory board, we also ensure you gain exposure to opportunities throughout your studies. In your third term you’ll have the choice of studying abroad or pursuing an internship/placement.

Placements 

You can go on a work placement for as little as one month or as long as a year. You’ll spend your time with a company of your choice, either in the UK or overseas. A work placement is incredibly beneficial for your future career prospects, it can enhance your CV and help you stand out from the competition when applying for graduate roles. It’s also fantastic opportunity to develop your understanding of your subject area by applying what you’ve learnt in the classroom to a professional context.

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new immigration route which will enable international students to remain in the UK for two years after they have completed their studies to find work. The new post-study work visa will apply to international students starting undergraduate and postgraduate courses from 2020. 

Find out more information on post-work visas.

International students

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

Aston University was recognised as the 'Best University Placement Service'.

The Careers and Placements team  at Aston University won the 'Best University Placement Service' category at the National Undergraduate Employability (NUE) Awards 2022. This was achieved by launching Virtual Employability Festivals and recognising the power of peer-to-peer communication by pairing 500 students looking for placements with 500 students who had completed placements.

Why study Finance at Aston?

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 kind of career will I develop with a masters in Finance?

You’ll be equipped with the necessary knowledge, skills and applied experiences for a rewarding career in the financial sector. The Bloomberg Trading Room at Aston Business School gives you a taste of working on a real trading floor.

The Trading Room consists of 21 Bloomberg Terminals, allowing you to access Bloomberg market data, analytics and information. It provides simulation of what it is like to work in the financial industry and provide experience of a real life trading floor environment.

Graduates from this programme have secured employment in a wide range of roles such as Analysts, Consultants and Investment Risk Officers. This has involved working for organisations including Goldman Sachs (UK), EY (France) and BNP Paribas (Luxembourg).

Why choose to study with Aston Business School?

Aston Business School is part of an elite group of business schools thanks to our triple accreditation from AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA. We can help to enhance your career prospects, boost your earning potential and set you on the path to a successful, and rewarding career.  

Aston University is renowned for its excellence in teaching and research and the employability of our graduates. At Aston Business School we are committed to innovative approaches to teaching and education. We are dedicated to providing students with a competitive advantage in the jobs market by delivering the knowledge students need to pursue the many career tracks available to them with a background in international business. Teaching on the course is informed by our world-class scholars and provides you with a deep understanding and skills for conducting business on a global scale. At Aston University, we aim to prepare students for the real world challenges. There are plenty of opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience and apply their knowledge in real-life situations by engaging in live projects and internships.