Finance

The MSc in Finance at University College London offers a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the dynamic world of finance. This programme explores core financial theories, quantitative methods, and practical applications, preparing students for a wide range of careers in banking, investment management, corporate finance, consulting, and financial analysis. Throughout the course, students will engage with a diverse curriculum that covers areas such as financial markets and institutions, asset management, risk management, financial modelling, and ethical considerations in finance. The programme combines rigorous academic instruction with real-world case studies, enabling students to develop analytical and critical thinking skills vital for making informed financial decisions in a competitive environment. Delivered by world-renowned faculty with extensive industry experience, the MSc in Finance emphasizes quantitative analysis and hands-on application, incorporating advanced tools such as financial programming and data analysis software. Students will also benefit from the university’s strong links with leading financial institutions and their career development services, facilitating access to internships, networking opportunities, and professional workshops. The programme is designed for graduates seeking to deepen their understanding of financial principles or transition into finance from related disciplines. With a flexible structure, students can tailor their studies through elective modules aligned with their career interests. Upon graduation, students will be well-equipped to pursue roles in investment banking, asset management, financial consulting, or to undertake doctoral research. The MSc in Finance at UCL provides an outstanding platform to launch a successful career in the financial sector, combining academic excellence with practical relevance, within a vibrant international academic community.

Students will acquire a firm grasp of fundamental finance-related concepts, and be able to apply their knowledge to practical tasks by, for example, utilising mathematical models to predict market behaviour. Graduates will acquire the skills and knowledge that enable them to work in any of the major financial centres from New York, to London, to Tokyo - indeed, globally.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of six core modules (90 credits), four optional modules (30 credits) and a dissertation (60 credits).

Core module

Students must take six core taught modules (four in term one and two in term two).

• Advanced Derivatives Modelling and Portfolio Theory
• Advanced Quantitative Methods for Finance
• Asset Pricing
• Corporate Finance
• Financial Mathematics
• Financial Econometrics

Optional modules

Students choose four of the following:

• Advanced Corporate Finance
• Behavioural Finance
• Big Data Analytics
• Fixed Income Modelling
• Mergers, Divestments & IPO Analysis

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a report of 15,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, and online modules. Assessment is through written examinations, individual/group coursework, and a 15,000-word dissertation.

A minimum of an upper-second class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard in one of the following subjects: Finance, mathematics, engineering, economic theory, science, probability, calculus or statistics. Degrees from other disciplines may be considered if they are related to finance and/or mathematics.

Scholarships relevant to this department are displayed below.

Fulbright – UCL Technology Entrepreneurship Award

Value:

Tuition fees plus stipend (1 year)

Eligibility:

Overseas students

Criteria:

Based on academic merit

The MSc Finance program at University College London offers students a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to prepare them for a successful career in the financial industry. The program emphasizes a solid understanding of financial theories, quantitative methods, and practical application of financial tools. Throughout the course, students explore core areas such as asset pricing, corporate finance, financial markets, and financial derivatives, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to analyze and solve complex financial problems.

The program is structured to include a mix of lectures, seminars, and workshops, providing interactive and experiential learning opportunities. Students are encouraged to develop strong analytical and quantitative skills, which are essential for roles in investment banking, asset management, risk management, and financial consulting. The curriculum also integrates current industry issues and case studies, enabling students to understand real-world financial challenges.

University College London’s location in London provides students with unique access to a vibrant financial sector, offering opportunities for networking, internships, and engagement with leading finance professionals. The program benefits from the university’s strong links with the finance industry, facilitating guest lectures and seminars by industry experts.

Students enrolled in MSc Finance can also take advantage of career development support offered by UCL Careers, including CV workshops, mock interviews, and recruitment events tailored to finance roles. The program typically lasts one year for full-time students and is designed to equip graduates with both the technical expertise and practical insight necessary to excel in competitive and dynamic financial markets.

In addition to academic coursework, students often participate in team projects and simulations that foster teamwork and strategic thinking. The program may also include optional modules or electives to allow students to specialize in particular areas of finance, such as quantitative finance, sustainable finance, or fintech innovations.

Applicants are required to demonstrate strong academic backgrounds in quantitative subjects, such as mathematics, economics, or engineering, along with excellent analytical skills. The university seeks candidates who are highly motivated and demonstrate a keen interest in financial markets and economic analysis. Graduates from the MSc Finance program have gone on to successful careers in investment banks, hedge funds, consulting firms, and financial services companies globally.

Overall, UCL’s MSc Finance program provides a rigorous academic foundation combined with practical industry exposure, preparing students for a wide range of careers in finance and related fields. The program’s emphasis on quantitative skills, combined with its location and industry connections, makes it a highly attractive option for aspiring finance professionals aiming to develop a deep understanding of financial markets and advance their careers in this competitive field.