Finance

The Bachelor of Science in Finance at Dublin City University offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to prepare them for a successful career in the dynamic world of finance. The programme provides a solid foundation in core financial principles, including financial analysis, investment management, risk assessment, banking, and financial planning. Students will develop critical thinking and analytical skills essential for evaluating financial markets, making informed investment decisions, and understanding the regulatory environment governing the financial sector. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application, utilizing case studies, real-world simulations, and industry-led projects to enhance learning outcomes. Throughout the programme, students will also gain valuable skills in data analysis, financial modelling, and the use of advanced software tools commonly employed in modern finance roles. The programme is designed to meet the needs of students aspiring to work in various sectors such as banking, asset management, financial advisory, and corporate finance. Students will benefit from our strong links with the financial industry, providing opportunities for internships, networking events, and guest lectures from industry experts. The programme emphasizes ethical decision-making and responsible financial practices, preparing graduates to contribute positively to the financial industry and society at large. With a faculty comprising experienced academics and industry practitioners, students will receive mentorship and guidance tailored to their career ambitions. Upon successful completion, graduates will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and professionalism to excel in a competitive job market, with many choosing to pursue further qualifications such as the CFA or MBA. The programme not only prepares students for immediate employment but also encourages lifelong learning and development, ensuring graduates remain adaptable and innovative in their careers.

The programme is structured as a core learning first semester, followed by three specialist streams in the second semester and a choice of applied research or a dissertation over the summer semester. The three streams are:

• Risk Management
• Capital Markets
• Energy Finance

Through these streams and excellent practical and research-informed core learning, we allow you to specialize in a manner that reflects your interests and career aspirations. We offer an ideal path for graduates of business and economics degrees, who wish to undertake a career in finance by obtaining a leading European postgraduate qualification.

General Entry Requirements

Candidates apply for admission to the M.Sc. in Finance (Common Entry) which provides a common pathway into three specialised streams. The three streams are Risk Management, Capital Markets and Energy Finance, and all have the first semester in common. At the end of the first semester, with the help and advice of faculty, each student will choose which stream to take.

The entry requirements for the program are

A second class (upper) honours degree (or international equivalent) in a Business-related discipline including economics:

OR

A second class (upper) honours degree (or international equivalent) in a discipline, other than business, which has a high analytical and quantitative content, such as mathematics, statistics, computing or engineering:

OR

A second class(upper) honours degree (or international equivalent) in any discipline *and* suitable evidence of high analytical and quantitative reasoning skills, as demonstrated by, for example, a GMAT, GRE score in the top 20% range or a high grade in leaving certificate maths

Special consideration will be given to applicants having obtained high grades in core finance and quantitative methods modules in your program. Some rare exceptions to the entry requirements may be made for applicants who do not meet the entry requirements by a small margin, but who can present a strong case for their application through other relevant experience, such as work experience or exceptional grades in the finance and quantitative modules of their degree.

If, as is normally the case, demand from qualified applicants exceeds available places, applicants will be ranked for admission purposes on the basis of prior academic performance. Candidates who have not received their degree results by the application closing date may receive conditional offers.

International Applications

International candidates are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above. In addition, where such candidates are non-native speakers of the English language they must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language. 

Dublin City University is proud to award merit-based scholarships to high achieving students who enter the Faculty of Engineering and Computing and the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences for the 2016/17 academic year. These scholarships are available to Indian applicants only and are based on academic merit to those who have a Full Offer. 

The Faculties also award scholarships of €1,000 to high achievers entering Masters and Bachelor programmes who are ranked by academic achievement. 

The Bachelor of Arts in Finance at Dublin City University (DCU) is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with a solid foundation in financial principles, economic understanding, and quantitative skills necessary for a successful career in the financial services sector. The program typically covers core areas such as corporate finance, investment analysis, financial markets, banking, risk management, and financial planning. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical applications, students gain insights into how financial systems operate and develop critical skills in financial analysis, decision-making, and problem-solving.

The curriculum often includes modules on microeconomics, macroeconomics, accounting principles, and business law, providing students with a broad understanding of the economic environment and legal context within which finance operates. In addition to core modules, students may have opportunities to specialize in areas such as investment banking, asset management, or financial technology (FinTech), depending on the program structure and elective offerings.

Dublin City University emphasizes a learner-centered approach, integrating case studies, simulations, and industry projects into coursework to enhance practical learning and prepare students for real-world challenges. The program may also include opportunities for placements or internships with financial institutions, providing valuable industry experience and networking opportunities.

Graduates of the Finance program at DCU are well-positioned to pursue careers in various sectors including banking, investment analysis, financial consultancy, insurance, and corporate finance. Furthermore, the program's strong emphasis on quantitative and analytical skills also opens pathways to postgraduate study or chartered professional certifications such as CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) or ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants).

The university's location in Dublin, a major European financial hub, offers students access to numerous multinational financial organizations, contributing to a vibrant academic and professional environment. Additionally, DCU’s strong links with industry and alumni network help facilitate career development and employment prospects for graduates.

Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Finance at Dublin City University provides a rigorous and practical education designed to develop competent, industry-ready graduates capable of thriving in a dynamic financial landscape.