Investment and Finance

Entry requirements

A 2:1 or above at undergraduate level in any subject, provided the degree contains satisfactory study of Mathematics and Statistics. Subjects likely to contain sufficient quantitative elements include Mathematics, Sciences, Engineering, Computer Science, Economics and Finance.

Students from less quantitatively oriented degrees, such as Accounting, Management and Politics, are welcome if they have focused on the more quantitative elements of those degrees.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The MSc in Investment and Finance is a specialist degree that provides practical and theoretical training in areas of major financial interest, in particular investment management and corporate finance. This masters degree is designed for those who wish to enter a career in finance or related areas including financial institutions, financial regulatory bodies, public sector institutions and International organisations, in positions such as investment analyst, financial analyst, trader and portfolio manager.

School of Economics and Finance (SEF):

• 10th in the UK for research power in the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF 2014)
• Close proximity to London’s financial districts (City of London and Canary Wharf)
• Self-contained campus with on-site accommodation
• State-of-the-art building
• Teaching by research-active academics as well as visiting city professionals

Investment and Finance MSc:

• Comprehensive training in finance with a special focus on corporate finance, such as the valuation of firms and investment projects, optimal capital structure, mergers and acquisitions, and financial accounting
• Special focus on asset pricing, portfolio construction and financial derivatives
• Chartered Financial Analyst pathway available which provides intensive preparation for CFA Level 1 exam

Structure

• Optional pre-semester modules in maths and statistics
• Six compulsory taught modules

Choose Between

• Three elective modules
• Dissertation (7,000 words)

OR

• Five elective modules
• Research Project (2,500 words)

Assessment

• 75% Modules
• 25% Dissertation

Teaching

• Taught by research-active academics as well as visiting city professionals
• Teaching of each module typically consists of a two-hour lecture and one-hour seminar (for solving homework) each week
• Lectures and seminars may be scheduled during the day or in the evening for both full-time and part-time pathways

Career Paths

• Wide range of careers in financial sector, especially in risk management and regulation in commercial banks, investment banks, and supervisory financial institutions (e.g. central banks)
• Our dedicated careers team offers students one-on-one appointments, support with job applications, practice interviews, information about internship opportunities, and employability events.

Information for international students

Students whose first degree is not taught in an English-speaking country must provide evidence of English language proficiency. 6.5 IELTS overall and 6.0 in Writing or equivalent is the minimum required. Click here for further information.

Fees and funding

There are a number of ways you can fund your postgraduate degree.

• Scholarships and bursaries
• Postgraduate loans (UK students)
• Country-specific scholarships for international students

Our Advice and Counselling service offers specialist support on financial issues, which you can access as soon as you apply for a place at Queen Mary. Before you apply, you can access our funding guides and advice on managing your money:

• Advice for UK and EU students
• Advice for international students