Finance

The Master of Science in Finance at the University of Warwick is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with a profound understanding of financial theories, quantitative methods, and practical skills essential for a successful career in the finance industry. This course is tailored for individuals who aspire to deepen their knowledge of financial markets, investment strategies, risk management, and corporate finance. Participants will engage with a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with real-world applications, ensuring they are well-prepared to tackle the complexities of the financial sector.

Throughout the program, students will explore a diverse range of topics, including asset pricing, financial derivatives, portfolio management, and behavioral finance. The curriculum emphasizes quantitative techniques, enabling students to analyze financial data effectively and develop innovative solutions to financial challenges. The program also offers modules on ethical considerations and regulatory frameworks, preparing graduates to operate responsibly and compliantly within the global financial market.

The MSc in Finance at Warwick benefits from the university’s strong links with industry, offering students numerous opportunities for internships, networking, and collaborative projects with leading financial institutions. The program is delivered by experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields, combining academic rigor with practical insights. Students will also have access to state-of-the-art resources and financial databases, supporting their research and coursework.

Beyond classroom learning, the program encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork, skills that are vital for careers in investment banking, asset management, financial consultancy, and corporate finance. The university’s vibrant student community and dedicated career services provide ongoing support for students’ professional development and employment prospects.

Graduates of the MSc in Finance at Warwick will be well-positioned to pursue advanced roles within the financial industry or continue their academic journey in finance or related fields. The program’s strong emphasis on analytical skills, ethical standards, and industry relevance ensures that alumni stand out in a competitive job market. Whether students aim to work in London’s financial district, emerging markets, or globally, this program provides a solid foundation for a dynamic and rewarding career in finance.

Five core modules cover key areas in modern finance while three elective modules allow you to focus on your preferences. Please note that availability and delivery modes of modules may vary.

Modules are taught through a combination of lectures, classes, and computer lab sessions.

Assessment is a mix of exams and coursework with your 8,000 word dissertation bringing all your learning together at the end.

Lectures and classes

Lectures introduce key theories, concepts, and economic models. In classes you will solve financial problems and numerical exercises, analyse case studies, and make presentations of research published in academic journals.

Lab work

Lab work will give you hands-on experience of using software to perform finance-related calculations and conduct realistic simulations. Econometric methods are also taught in the lab, so you will learn to apply econometric software to empirical research and financial market estimations.

Your dissertation

An 8,000 word dissertation gives you the opportunity to develop, test, practise, and apply the techniques and theories you have gained through your studies. You will be supervised and supported throughout by one of our academic staff or teaching associates and will usually submit your dissertation in early September. 

Core Modules

• Quantitative Methods for Finance
• Asset Pricing
• Corporate Finance
• Investment Management
• Empirical Finance

Example Elective Modules

• Advanced Corporate Finance
• Behavioural Finance
• Derivative Securities
• Banks and Financial Institutions
• Financial Reporting & Statement Analysis
• Judgement & Decision-making
• Financial Risk Management
• Fixed Income & Credit Risk
• International Financial Markets
• International Financial Management
• Big Data Analytics
• Alternative Investments
• Market Microstructure
• Practice of Investment Management
• Mergers and Acquisitions & Corporate Control

• The finance programmes are challenging technical courses.  To succeed on these courses you will need strong mathematics and statistics or econometrics ability, this could be demonstrated by a high 2.1 or 1stachieved in a relevant subject at Undergraduate level
• You must also have achieved a good standard in mathematics, economics, and statistics/econometrics at undergraduate level. 
• We do not require a GMAT or GRE score but a well-balanced score (700+) may strengthen your application.
• Transcripts
• Statement of purpose

English Language

Scholarships

In 2015 WBS awarded over £500,000 in scholarships across its Finance Masters courses. We are pleased to be able to award a similar amount for entry in September 2016. We offer two types of scholarships:

• WBS scholarships of up to 50% towards tuition fees are offered to applicants with an outstanding academic background. All suitable applicants to the MSc, and in particular those from the UK and Europe, will be considered for these scholarships at the time they apply.
• Warwick students who are offered a place with WBS will receive a Warwick Loyalty 25% scholarship, with outstanding students receiving up to 50%.

All applicants who are offered a scholarship will be notified at the time they are made an offer for the MSc.

The MSc in Finance at the University of Warwick is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of financial theories, principles, and applications. This program aims to equip graduates with the analytical skills necessary to succeed in various finance-related careers, including investment banking, asset management, corporate finance, and financial consultancy. The curriculum covers core topics such as financial markets and instruments, financial analysis, quantitative methods, risk management, and ethical considerations in finance. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in areas like financial technology, behavioral finance, or sustainable finance, depending on their interests and career aspirations. The program combines rigorous theoretical coursework with practical projects, providing real-world experience through case studies, simulations, and opportunities for internships. The Faculty of Finance at Warwick is renowned for its research excellence, and students benefit from teaching by experienced academics and industry practitioners. The university's strong links with financial institutions and professional bodies enable networking opportunities, guest lectures, and workshops that enhance employability. The MSc in Finance typically spans one year of full-time study, with options for part-time learning. Admission requirements include a relevant undergraduate degree in finance, economics, or a related discipline, along with a strong academic record and proficiency in quantitative methods. The program also emphasizes the development of transferable skills such as critical thinking, communication, and teamwork, which are vital for a successful finance career. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to pursue professional certifications like CFA or FRM and are competitive candidates for roles within global financial markets. The campus facilities, including Bloomberg terminals and dedicated finance labs, support students' learning and research activities. Overall, the MSc in Finance at Warwick offers a rigorous academic environment combined with practical industry exposure, making it an excellent choice for aspiring finance professionals seeking a challenging and rewarding educational experience.