Finance and Investment

Entry requirements

You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in a quantitative subject (whether as a single, joint or combined honours degree) such as Accounting and Finance, Actuarial Sciences, Computer Science, Data Science, Economics, Engineering, Finance, International Economics and Trade, Maths, Physics or Commerce (with specialism in Accounting/Finance/Accounting and Finance/Economics).

OR

If your degree subject is not listed above, you will typically need an upper second-class honours degree (60% or higher) or an international equivalent with three units of mathematics with 60% or above (or an international equivalent) in each unit, from the units listed in 'Maths qualification requirements' below.

We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so you would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of your degree. Specific module requirements would still apply.

If your achieved grade is lower than our entry requirements, your application may be more likely to receive an offer if you have additional relevant work experience or qualifications. If you have at least one of the following, please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply, showing:

• 5 years work experience in a relevant sector (Accounting, Economics, Finance, Investment or similar)
• a relevant postgraduate qualification.

Specific module requirements would still apply, which can be met in either undergraduate or postgraduate qualifications.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The MSc Finance and Investment at the University of Bristol is a rigorous and forward-looking programme designed to equip students with a deep understanding of both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of modern finance. Core areas of study include asset pricing, corporate finance and quantitative methods for finance. In addition, students have the opportunity to tailor their learning through a wide selection of optional units covering derivatives, financial modelling, investment management, advanced corporate finance, banking, green and sustainable finance, financial technology, and behavioural finance. This combination of core and elective content ensures both depth and flexibility, enabling students to develop expertise in areas aligned with their interests and career goals.

A key distinguishing feature of the programme is its strong emphasis on applied learning. Students engage with practical coursework and gain hands-on experience with professional financial tools such as Bloomberg, Refinitiv Eikon, Capital IQ. The programme also incorporates a financial markets simulation, delivered in collaboration with Amplify Trading, a FinTech training provider known for working with leading global financial institutions. This simulation allows students to experience the pressures and decision-making processes involved in trading and portfolio management, helping them develop skills that are directly transferable to the workplace. The curriculum is delivered by internationally recognised academics whose research informs teaching at the forefront of the discipline.

Delivered over 12 months, this full-time programme is suitable for students with good undergraduate degrees in finance, economics, or accounting, as well as those with other quantitative backgrounds (for example, an undergraduate education in mathematics, engineering, or natural sciences). It concludes with an individual research project or dissertation, allowing students to apply financial theory and quantitative techniques to real-world problems.

Graduates of the MSc Finance and Investment are well-prepared for a wide range of careers in investment banking, asset management, financial consultancy, risk management, corporate finance or fintech. Employers value the programme’s blend of analytical rigour, practical training, and exposure to real-world financial tools. Alumni have gone on to secure roles in global financial institutions, consultancy firms, regulatory bodies, and technology-driven finance companies. The programme also provides a robust foundation for students considering further study at the doctoral level or aiming to pursue professional qualifications in finance.

Teaching for this postgraduate programme will be delivered at our new Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus, opening 2026. Here, enhanced links with industry and collaborative learning spaces will provide students with real-world knowledge, networks and skills to succeed once you graduate. Depending on your choice of optional units, you may also be taught on the Clifton Campus.

Information for international students

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Fees and funding

Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.