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Overview
Our MSc Finance degree explores financial theory and develops your financial analysis skills as you prepare for a financial career in cities like London. You’ll use industry tools and software to develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a city professional.
This course has a mathematical focus, so you’ll ideally have a background in accounting, economics or finance.
As a Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI) student member, you’ll have networking opportunities and be able to build relationships with potential future employers during your studies.
Taught by industry experienced lecturers including ex-traders, you’ll cover topical subjects including behavioural finance, derivatives and financial management. You’ll learn to value stocks and bonds, explore a range of economic models, and use accurate financial data as you study so you'll graduate with a solid understanding of modern financial markets and instruments.
Use our Bloomberg Suite to access and analyse financial data for your assessments, and work towards your Bloomberg certificate with training and an online exam paid for by the University.
This course is ideal if you want to start your career as a stockbroker or trader in the city.
Eligibility
This course accepts UK, EU, and International students.
Course highlights
- Use our Bloomberg Suite to analyse real world financial data
- Explore topics including financial markets and behavioural finance
- Develop your software skills, including Excel and stats packages
- Work towards your Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC) certification, an essential qualification for City professionals
- Be a CISI student member, accessing networking opportunities and industry talks as you study
- Learn from industry experienced lecturers including ex-traders
- Study a CISI accredited course and prepare for your CISI examinations
Recognised by:
The University of Portsmouth is recognised as a Centre of Excellence for finance teaching by the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI).
On successful completion of your Bloomberg Market Concepts training, you'll be awarded the Bloomberg Certificate, an essential qualification for all city professionals.
Contact Information
Contact Student Recruitment CentreEntry requirements
Eligibility
This course accepts UK, EU, and International students.
September 2024 start
- A second-class honours degree in a relevant or related subject, which includes some element of statistics or quantitative methods, or equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications.
Please get in touch if you're not sure if your undergraduate subject is relevant to this degree.
Equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications will also be considered, such as previous study, employment, voluntary work and training courses, including courses and qualifications you didn't complete. Learn more about our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
If you're applying as an international student with a non-UK degree, you’ll need to show you meet the UK entry requirements listed above.
To find out if your non-UK degree or other qualification is accepted, please visit our page for your country and view the UK equivalent of your qualification.
- English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 (or equivalent) with no component score below 6.0.
You do not need an IELTS or equivalent certification if:
- you have a UK degree
- you have a degree from a majority English speaking country (not taught by Distance Learning)
- you are a national of a majority English speaking country
Degrees taught solely in English from non-majority English speaking countries will be considered on a case by case basis. Find out more about our English language requirements.
If you do not meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
Course costs and funding
Tuition fees (September 2024 start)
- Full time: £12,000 per year
(including Transition Scholarship)
- Full-time: £12,000 per year
- Full time: £19,200
University of Portsmouth graduates may receive a 20% alumni tuition fee discount.
Fees are subject to annual increase. Read our tuition fees terms and conditions.
You'll be able to pay your fees in instalments. Find out how to pay your tuition fees.
Funding your studies
Explore how to fund your studies, including available scholarships and bursaries.
If you're a UK student, you may be eligible for a Government Postgraduate Master's Loan, which you can use to help with course fees and living costs.
Loans, scholarships and bursaries
Browse funding such as the Government Postgraduate Loan, our scholarships for new and returning students, and subject specific loans.
Funding for international students
Learn more about sponsorships, scholarships and loans for students applying from outside of the UK.
Fees and funding for Master's courses
Explore Master's funding options, including loans, scholarships, bursaries and more.
Additional costs
These course-related costs aren't included in the tuition fees, so you'll need to budget for them when you plan your spending. Additional costs could include:
- Accommodation: Accommodation options and costs can be found on our accommodation pages.
- Recommended reading: You can borrow key texts from the library and if you choose to purchase these texts they may cost up to £60 each.
- General costs: Such as photocopying, memory sticks, printing charges, binding and specialist printing. We suggest budgeting £75 per year.
- Final project transport or accommodation: where necessary, which related to your research activities. The amount will depend on the project you choose.
Read more about tuition fees and living costs, including what your tuition fees cover.
Modules
What you'll study
Core modules
Students are introduced to key concepts and issues in conceptualising, designing, conducting and communicating research in the general fields of accounting, economics and finance and their sub-fields like financial technology, digital economy etc., informed by best practices across the subject disciplines. The module provides opportunities for students to engage with the practical application of research techniques and the chance to discuss research issues and ideas in an incubator type environment. The teaching sessions enable students to reflect upon the empirical research ideas and concepts introduced throughout the study programme across all units and to discuss, with academic staff field specialists how this prior research may inform their own research project. The module will also provide the opportunity to gain competence in the navigation and use of platforms and secondary data sources such as Bloomberg, Capital IQ etc. and in acquiring independent study skills under guidance of an assigned supervisor.
This will be achieved by introducing advanced theoretical advancements, guided critical research, and analysis.
The lectures will provide a foundation for independent learning, promoting the attainment of all learning outcomes. The workshops will involve students in formative problem-solving activities and discussions, addressing all learning outcomes. The teaching will be delivered through 2-hour weekly workshops.
It is delivered via a combination of lectures, supervised computer workshops, and structured opportunities for independent learning. Lectures provide students with key concepts and essential information to support independent learning. Workshops develop competence with econometric software through formative assessment, supporting independent study and summative assessment.
Students taking this module achieve the following graduate Hallmarks: a critical and reflective knowledge and understanding of their subject, with both the ability and readiness to question its principles, practices and boundaries; think independently, analytically and creatively, and engage imaginatively with new areas of investigation within and across discipline boundaries; be able to synthesise new and existing knowledge to generate ideas and develop creative solutions of benefit to the economy and society; be intellectually curious, embrace challenges and seize opportunities for development; be able to locate, access and critically engage with information, using current and emerging digital technologies.
This module contributes towards a degree accredited by the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment.
They will also be able to implement investment strategies based on portfolio theory, through presentation of theoretical developments, guided critical analysis of research and application of quantitative models to real world data, including live data.
Students completing this module will be able to understand and explain the core properties of the main derivatives contracts, and will gain detailed knowledge of the main theoretical option pricing models through formal quantitative analysis and applying the theory using market data. Lectures introduce principles and theory, supporting independent learning. Seminars involve formative problem-solving, examination of research findings, and development of coursework. This module contributes towards a degree accredited by the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment.
Students critically evaluate the factors that influence the investment decision-making process and how an understanding of behavioural finance may contribute to better financial decisions. Lectures introduce principles and theory, supporting independent learning. Seminars engage students in formative problem solving and discussions that address all learning outcomes. Independent learning is facilitated by online resources, including Moodle and selected websites.
The module contributes to a course accredited by the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment.
The module develops a critical understanding of advanced theoretical models and methods and explores empirical research and case study evidence to illustrate theory in practice. Lectures provide students with key concepts and essential information to support independent learning. Seminars incorporate formative training exercises, discussions, and analyses. Students taking this module achieve the following graduate Hallmarks: Have a critical and reflective knowledge and understanding of their subject, with both the ability and readiness to question its principles, practices and boundaries; think independently, analytically and creatively, and engage imaginatively with new areas of investigation within and across discipline boundaries; be able to synthesise new and existing knowledge to generate ideas and develop creative solutions of benefit to the economy and society; be intellectually curious, embrace challenges and seize opportunities for development; be able to locate, access and critically engage with information, using current and emerging digital technologies; be informed citizens, with a sense of responsibility allied to a commitment to ethical practice and social justice issues, such as equality, respect and sustainability.
It is delivered via a combination of lectures, supervised computer workshops, and structured opportunities for independent learning. Lectures provide students with key concepts and essential information to support independent learning. Workshops develop competence with econometric software through formative assessment, supporting independent study and summative assessment.
Students taking this module achieve the following graduate Hallmarks: a critical and reflective knowledge and understanding of their subject, with both the ability and readiness to question its principles, practices and boundaries; think independently, analytically and creatively, and engage imaginatively with new areas of investigation within and across discipline boundaries; be able to synthesise new and existing knowledge to generate ideas and develop creative solutions of benefit to the economy and society; be intellectually curious, embrace challenges and seize opportunities for development; be able to locate, access and critically engage with information, using current and emerging digital technologies.
This module contributes towards a degree accredited by the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment
Students completing this module will be able to understand and explain the core properties of the main derivatives contracts and their pricing models and will gain detailed knowledge of these models through formal quantitative analysis using market data. Lectures introduce principles and theory, supporting independent learning. Seminars involve formative problem-solving, examination of research findings, and development of coursework. This module contributes towards a degree accredited by the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment.
Optional modules
The ultimate objective of this module is to introduce students to data concepts, ethics, analytics, governance, and management. The students will learn how to collect, clean, organise, and handle massive amounts of data and how to ensure the data security and reliability. The module will introduce students to the world of Big Data and the main theories in data science, which will help to cope with the modern employment requirements.
In a period characterised by rapid technological advancements and digital transformation, this module equips students with the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the complex digital landscape, address societal challenges, and shape effective policies.
The module offers macro perspectives on the digital economy and the implications of the ongoing digital transformation for national and global economies. In an era where digital advancements are reshaping the socio-economic landscape, and big tech firms are assuming significant positions not just within the industry but also in terms of influencing the pace and direction of national markets and international business, comprehending today's world necessitates a deep dive into the transformative effects of the digital economy.
This module seeks to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge to undertake this exploration.
Fintech has become a disrupting force and at the same time an incentive for traditional organisations and institutions to develop digital transformation strategies and adopt Fintech business applications such as blockchain, smart contracts, and crypto exchange to maintain their existence. In the backdrop of this rapidly evolving context, this modules aims to introduce students to the concepts and principles related to digital disruption in the financial services sector, its micro sources and how it has started to change the nature of financial firms, and how this has in turn affected the very nature and structure of the financial services sector. The module will equip students to understand micro perspectives on how businesses/firms in the financial industry can adopt digital transformation strategies and apply Fintech tools to become digitally mature.
Changes to course content
We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies.
Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry. If a module doesn't run, we'll let you know as soon as possible and help you choose an alternative module.
Facilities
Use our specialist facilities, including:
Bloomberg Suite
Access data from the world's global financial markets, gain experience using industry standard software and have the option to earn your Bloomberg certificate with training and an online exam, paid for by the University.
How you'll spend your time
We recognise that you'll probably be juggling more demands when you do your Master's degree, as you may be working or you may have family responsibilities.
We'll give you as much indication here as we can of how much time you'll need to be on campus and how many hours you can expect to spend in self-directed study, but please note that these indications are always subject to change. You should receive your full timetable several weeks before you start with us.
Course structure
This MSc Finance Master's degree will take 1 year full-time. Your teaching activities will take place on campus.
You can expect:
- A weekly one hour lecture per module
- A weekly one hour seminar per module
You will study 4 modules in teaching block one, another 4 modules in teaching block two, and work on your dissertation throughout the year.
You may have access to pre-recorded videos on Moodle for modules which ran during the lockdown period. You can review this videos as part of your revision.
Master's study is deeper and more specialised than an undergraduate degree. This means you'll focus on something that really matters to you and your career as you work closely with academics committed to the subject.
You'll spend more time in independent study and research than you did for your undergraduate degree, but the majority of your teaching time will be in-person and face-to-face.
Assessment
You'll be assessed through:
- coursework
- exams
Full details of assessment can be found in the modules in the 'What you'll study' section.
Teaching staff
These are some of the expert staff who'll teach you on this course:
Term dates
September start
The Master's academic year runs from September to the following September. There are breaks at Christmas and Easter. Over the summer you'll be writing your project/dissertation.
Career development
Careers this Master’s prepares you for
Prepare for your city career with this MSc Finance degree.
You will graduate with expertise in technical subjects including derivatives and in influential areas like behavioural finance. This specialist knowledge builds on your undergraduate degree and boosts your employability.
Our MSc Finance is accredited with the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI). This accreditation is internationally recognised, with CISI offices in 64 countries.
We’ll prepare you for your CISI examinations by covering the CISI Corporate Finance Technical Foundations paper syllabus during your Corporate Finance: Technical Foundations (CFTF) module. You’ll complete University assessments on the same subjects you’ll need for the CISI paper, and have the chance to complete the CISI paper after the module. This CISI paper is optional and is not a part of the MSc Finance course.
You’ll receive a CISI student membership as part of your degree, which means you’ll have opportunities to attend CISI presentations, talks by industry experts, and networking events as you study. We’ll pay for this membership as part of your degree.
Graduates of this course have gone onto roles in:
- Banking
- Investment banking
- Securities broking
- Trading
Career outcomes shown are sourced from the latest available graduate outcome surveys. The data shows career outcomes at 15 months after graduation.
Career planning
During your course you'll have expert career support from our Careers and Employability Centre, your tutors and our Business and Law Career-Ready Programme. This support will continue for 5 years after you graduate.
Career support
You'll benefit from:
- Networking events
- Regular emails from the Career Ready Programme sharing job opportunities, application tips and events
- Applied projects with companies such as IBM, Boeing and Hampshire County Council
- Workshops to enhance your employability skills
- Recruitment events including the Student and Graduate Opportunities Fair
- 1-to-1 appointments
- CV and cover letter advice
- Interview preparation and practice
- Support starting your own business
Supporting you
Master's study is more focused on independent learning than undergraduate study, but you'll get lots of support via video, phone and face-to-face from teaching and support staff to enhance your learning experience and help you succeed. You can build your personalised network of support from the following people and services:
Types of support
Your personal tutor helps you make the transition to independent study and gives you academic and personal support throughout your time at university.
As well as regular scheduled meetings with your personal tutor, they're also available at set times during the week if you want to chat with them about anything that can't wait until your next meeting.
In addition to the support you get from your personal tutor, you'll also have access to our student engagement officers. They can give you confidential, impartial advice on anything to do with your studies and personal wellbeing, and refer you to specialist support services if you need extra help or support.
The Maths Cafe offers free advice and help with maths skills in a friendly, informal environment. You can come to our daily drop-in sessions, develop your maths skills at a workshop, or use our online resources.
You'll have help from a team of study support tutors. Based within the Faculty of Business and Law, these tutors are familiar with the specific requirements your assignments and work closely with faculty academics. This means they can give you focused support with the specific study skills you need to be successful on your course. They're available face-to-face, by phone, email, and by video call.
They can help with:
- academic writing (for example, essays, reports, dissertations, projects and literature reviews)
- reflective writing skills
- critical thinking skills
- delivering presentations (including observing and filming presentations)
- understanding and using assignment feedback
- managing your time and workload
- revision and exam techniques
If you're a mature student, specialist support to help you return to learning is available.
As well as support from faculty staff and your personal tutor, you can use the University's Academic Skills Unit (ASK).
ASK provides one-to-one support in areas such as:
- academic writing
- note taking
- time management
- critical thinking
- presentation skills
- referencing
- working in groups
- revision, memory and exam techniques
Library staff are available in person or by email, phone, or online chat to help you make the most of the University’s library resources. You can also request one-to-one appointments and get support from a librarian who specialises in your subject area.
The library is open 24 hours a day, every day, in term time.
Our online Learning Well mini-course will help you plan for managing the challenges of learning and student life, so you can fulfil your potential and have a great student experience.
You can get personal, emotional and mental health support from our Student Wellbeing Service, in person and online. This includes 1–2–1 support as well as courses and workshops that help you better manage stress, anxiety or depression.
If you require extra support because of a disability or additional learning need our specialist team can help you.
They'll help you to
- discuss and agree on reasonable adjustments
- liaise with other University services and facilities, such as the library
- access specialist study skills and strategies tutors, and assistive technology tutors, on a 1-to-1 basis or in groups
- liaise with external services
If English isn't your first language, you can do one of our English language courses to improve your written and spoken English language skills before starting your degree. Once you're here, you can take part in our free In-Sessional English (ISE) programme to improve your English further.
Joining us as an international student
You'll feel at home in our international community and our diverse city. You'll be joining over 5,000 international students from more than 150 countries who are studying with us.
Learn more about international student life and how we can help you with visas, applications, arrival and settling in.
How to apply
Unlike undergraduate applications, which go through UCAS, applications for this Master's course are made directly to us.
There's no deadline for applications to this course. We accept applications right up until the start date in September, as long as there are places available. If you wait until September to apply, you may find that the course is full.
If you're applying as an international student, remember that you'll need to leave plenty of time to get your visa organised.
You can find more advice about applying in our Master's application checklist. International students and current students and recent graduates of the University of Portsmouth also have some different application options, which are detailed below.
Extra information for international students
If you're an international student, you can apply directly to us using the same application form as UK students.
You could also get an agent to help with your application. Check your country page for details of agents in your region. To find out what to include in your application, head to the how to apply page of our international students section.
If you don’t meet the English language requirements for this course yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
Ready to apply?
Start this course in September 2024
I'm a current Portsmouth student, or a recent Portsmouth graduate
If you're currently in your final year of study at Portsmouth, or you graduated since July 2023, you're eligible to make a fast track application. You'll have:
- a shorter application form to complete
- access to the 20% Alumni fee discount
- a guaranteed conditional offer, for most Master's courses
After you apply
Once we receive your application, we may ask you for further information. We will then either make you an offer or suggest alternatives if your application is unsuccessful.
You'll usually get a decision within 10 working days, so you shouldn't have to wait too long. Some courses have an interview stage – we'll let you know if you need to prepare for one.
Learn more about how we assess your application.
Admissions terms and conditions
When you accept an offer to study at the University of Portsmouth, you also agree to abide by our Student Contract (which includes the University's relevant policies, rules and regulations). You should read and consider these before you apply.