Financial Economics - MSc

This course is designed to provide you with the knowledge and expertise for a career in fund management, stockbroking, investment banking, corporate treasury and other financial sector roles.

Overview

The MSc in Financial Economics aims to offer the knowledge and expertise needed for a career as a professional economist working in the public or private sector or alternatively, in fund management, stock-broking, investment banking, corporate treasury and other financial sector roles.

The course includes modules covering the working of the markets for bonds, stocks, currencies and derivatives (futures and forwards, options and swaps), as well as microeconomics, advanced macroeconomics and econometrics.

Much of the material is extremely challenging, both analytically and sometimes technically, but attention is given at all times to the practical questions of how to interpret financial data for research purposes; how to identify and exploit trading opportunities; and how to measure and manage risk.

Distinctive features

• You will be part of a community which is committed to delivering social improvement alongside economic development in the world’s first Public Value Business School.
• You will study at a Business School ranked 1st in the UK for research environment and 6th for research excellence (REF 2014).
• You will be a student of the only business school in Wales accredited by AACSB international (and one of only 5% worldwide).
• You will be exposed to recent developments in research and will develop a sophisticated understanding of modern theories and research findings.
• Our facilities include a fully functioning trading room giving you access to the latest market data.

Structure

You will undertake a range of core and optional modules across two semesters which are designed to give you an in-depth understanding of a range of areas relevant to the financial sector.

Learning and assessment

Our teaching is heavily informed by research and combines academic rigour with practical relevance. Our internationally leading faculty consists of academics who are at the forefront of knowledge within their field. They bring the lessons learnt from their most recent research into the classroom, giving you access to up to date real life examples and scenarios and critical business thinking.

Your teaching and learning resources will be provided and we will be responsive to your needs and views. For your part, you will need to put in the necessary amount of work both during and outside formal teaching sessions, and to make good use of the facilities provided.

Methods of teaching

Most modules involve a mixture of lectures and small group teaching (called classes, seminars, workshops or tutorials). 

In a lecture, the lecturer will mainly be giving an overview of a particular aspect of the module content (as well as opportunities for you to ask questions and be reflective), while in classes and workshops you will have an opportunity to practice techniques, discuss ideas, apply concepts and consolidate your understanding in the topic.

Career prospects

Our graduates find employment as specialists in financial institutions, corporate treasury departments, central banks and local government.

Visit the Financial Economics - MSc page on the Cardiff University website for more details!