Commerce (Finance)

The Bachelor of Commerce (Finance) at the University of Otago offers students a comprehensive understanding of financial principles, investment strategies, and the functioning of financial markets. This programme is designed to equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for a successful career in finance, banking, investment management, and related fields. Throughout the course, students explore core topics such as financial analysis, corporate finance, financial derivatives, international finance, and risk management. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical abilities, problem-solving skills, and ethical decision-making, which are crucial in the fast-paced and dynamic financial environment. The programme combines rigorous academic coursework with real-world applications, often involving case studies, projects, and internships that provide valuable industry insights. Students also gain a strong foundation in economics, accounting, and business law to understand the broader context within which financial decisions are made. The university’s excellent links with financial institutions and business communities enable students to access networking opportunities, guest lectures, and industry placements. Graduates of the Commerce (Finance) programme are well-prepared for a range of careers including financial analyst, investment banker, financial advisor, fund manager, or corporate treasurer. The programme also lays a solid foundation for those interested in pursuing postgraduate studies in finance or related disciplines. With a focus on analytical thinking, technical proficiency, and ethical responsibility, the Bachelor of Commerce (Finance) at Otago aims to develop confident, competent professionals ready to thrive in the competitive finance industry, both in New Zealand and globally.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 3191 Year (National)
• EUR 15772 Year (International)

International: 24530NZ$. National:4,963.00NZ$

• English

Course Content

Every degree programme

* Note: These papers should normally be completed before enrolling in 300-level Commerce papers.

100-level

• BSNS 102 Quantitative Anaysis for Business
• BSNS 107 Understanding Accounting
• BSNS 108 Business Finance
• FINQ 102 Business Mathematics
• Grades of at least C+ in the BSNS papers are normally needed in order to proceed to 200-level FINC and ACFI papers
• BSNS 103 Marketing and Consumption, BSNS 104 Principles of Economics 1, BSNS 105 Management and Organisations, and BSNS 106 Information and Communication in Organisations, must normally be taken before enrolling in 300-level Commerce papers

200-level

• FINC 202 Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management
• FINC 203 Financial Data Analysis
• ACFI 201 Corporate Financial Decisions

300-level

• FINC 302 Applied Investments
• FINC 303 Financial Management
• Two further 300-level papers, (one must be a FINC paper, and the other must be a FINC, ACCT or ACFI paper)

Plus

• 90 further points; must include 54 points at 200-level or above.
• May be taken from outside Commerce

Every BCom programme must include BSNS 102-108. 100-level BSNS papers need not all be taken in the first year of study; all 100-level BSNS papers must normally be passed before enrolling in 300-level Commerce papers.

STAT 110 or STAT 115 will be accepted as an alternative to BSNS 102 as a required paper or as part of the major subject requirements or as a prerequisite when:
(a) the paper has been passed before the student has enrolled for a BCom degree; or
(b) a student is enrolling for both a BCom and another degree for which STAT 110 or STAT 115 is required.

Total points 360

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 CAE score : 58 TOEFL paper-based test score : 550 TOEFL iBT® test : 80

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

NCEA National Certificate in Educational Achievement

• 10 Level 2 credits in approved literacy (5 in reading, 5 in writing)

CIE Cambridge International Examinations

• Grade E or better in AS English

IB International Baccalaureate

• English at Higher or Standard level in Language A: literature, or Language A: language and literature; or at Higher level in Language B

NZUEBS New Zealand University Entrance Bursaries and Scholarships

• English mark of 46% or higher

IELTS International English Language Testing System

• 6.0 in academic module (with no individual band below 6.0)

TOEFL (paper based) Test of English as a Foreign Language

• 550 Test of Written English 4.5

TOEFL (internet based) Test of English as a Foreign Language

• 80 (with a Writing score of 20)

CPE Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English

• Minimum of 50

CAE Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English

• Minimum of 58

APIEL Advanced Placement International English Language Examination

• Grade 3 or higher

University of Otago Foundation Studies Ltd

• Successful completion of ‘English for Undergraduate Academic Purposes’ paper

Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic

• Overall score of 58 with no communicative skills score below 50

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

The Bachelor of Commerce (Finance) at the University of Otago is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with essential knowledge and skills in financial analysis, investment management, corporate finance, and financial markets. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, preparing graduates for diverse careers within the finance sector, including banking, asset management, financial consulting, and corporate finance departments. Throughout the course, students engage with core subjects such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, economics, business law, and quantitative methods, which lay the foundation for advanced topics in finance. Specialized courses in financial theory, investment analysis, derivatives, risk management, and ethical issues in finance allow students to develop a nuanced understanding of the financial landscape. The program is structured over three years of full-time study, with opportunities for internships, industry projects, and international exchanges to enhance practical experience and global perspective.

Students benefit from Otago’s strong links with industry professionals and alumni networks, providing access to mentoring, career development workshops, and job placement support. The university’s dedicated faculty comprises experienced academics and practitioners who bring real-world insights into their teaching. The program encourages analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, skills vital for success in financial careers. Students are also introduced to innovative financial technologies and digital tools, aligning with current trends and future demands in the industry. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared to undertake professional certifications such as the CFA or CPA, or to pursue postgraduate studies. The program is accredited by relevant academic and industry bodies, ensuring recognition and credibility in the competitive financial sector. Overall, the Bachelor of Commerce (Finance) at Otago offers a rigorous, immersive education that combines academic excellence with practical relevance, supporting students in building successful careers in finance locally and globally.