Finance and Investment MSc

30 credits

During this module, you will gain a thorough understanding of modern portfolio theory and its implications for asset pricing, asset management, and investment decisions associated with risk management. The main topics covered include:

• portfolio diversification
• optimal portfolio construction
• expected utility theory
• capital asset pricing model
• arbitrage pricing theory with application
• the formulation and implementation of various active and passive investment strategies
• the analysis and management of risks associated with particular strategies.

This module also looks at the different types of investment banks and the strategies they employ. You will cover:

• investment banks
• private equity investment – types and techniques
• debt and equity underwriting by investment banks
• trading techniques
• mergers and acquisitions
• securitisation
• hedge funds
• mutual funds and other funds
• wealth management, and clearance and settlement.

You will construct and manage investment portfolios for a specific period and present the results. You will use the dedicated Bloomberg Trading Room and software packages to develop your practical experience of industry standard systems and use real, live data.

15 credits

This module is particularly relevant to those who are interested in a career as a financial data analyst, financial advisor or consultant. It offers a solid theoretical grounding in econometrics theories and explores the application of this knowledge to analytical models in business as well as finance.

You will develop analytical and programming skills drawn from the current empirical finance literature and the underlying econometric techniques used to evaluate alternative models of the dynamics of firm performance, asset prices, returns and sustainability.

You will also gain skills in statistics and computer programming. You will have access to the Bloomberg Trading Room, where you will analyse financial data from Thomson Reuters Refinitiv Eikon, Bloomberg, FAME and more.

30 credits

This module will provide you with a broad understanding of the nature of derivative securities and how they can be used by banks and other financial institutions.

You will examine the valuation methods available and the mathematics behind derivatives and fixed income securities valuation. You will learn about numerical schemes such as the binomial lattice to value derivative and fixed income securities.

You will then move on to look at market calibration of alternative derivative models to illustrate how such models can be fitted to observed derivative prices.

15 credits

This module provides an underpinning and understanding of the numerical techniques used in the business and finance world to aid strategic decision-making.

You will be equipped with the accounting, mathematical and statistical foundations that are necessary in the areas of accounting and finance and highly valued by employers.

You are encouraged to read articles from academic journals and discuss your findings during the interactive sessions, and you will also be able to make use of the Bloomberg Trading Room to analyse financial data.

15 credits

This module introduces you to the integration of global sustainability imperatives into investment decision-making. It explores both the theoretical foundations and practical application of sustainable finance, alongside the relevant national and international regulatory frameworks shaping sustainable development.

You will examine key concepts including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) investing. The module also considers how sustainable projects can be financed through capital markets and alternative financing mechanisms, equipping you with the knowledge to align investment strategies with long-term environmental and social impact.

60 credits

This module will introduce you to methods and procedures for identifying, investigating and analysing a research problem, and an opportunity to apply these tools in the development of a dissertation. You will be expected to be familiar with the theory and research in your chosen area of study, and to demonstrate your ability to review and apply concepts and techniques critically.

15 credits

This module offers an intuitive analysis of the international financial management environment.

You will study the role and functions of international financial markets (FX, capital markets) and institutions, and assess the tools that can be employed by firms' managers to assess and control for risk in these markets.

You will learn about international economic linkages, monetary systems and parity conditions in international financial markets. Several real-world examples and journal articles are used to bring together theoretical considerations and practise.

15 credits

This module explores the interrelationship between capital markets and accounting information.  

You will be introduced to key issues in empirical accounting research, applying fundamental concepts from accounting and finance in capital market contexts. 

Building on knowledge from both 'Financial Accounting' and 'Corporate Finance', the module equips you with essential skills for success in both the accounting and finance professions. 

15 credits

This module explores the selection, implementation, and monitoring of risk financing techniques – the ways in which an organisation can obtain funds to pay for any critical or accidental losses. This module develops your critical awareness of risk within institutions and in a wider social context. Topics include:

• framework for risk financing;
• criteria for risk financing technique selection;
• insurance and reinsurance;
• financing property,
• net income and personnel losses;
• accounting and income tax aspects of accidental losses;
• insurance pricing;
• selection of insurers and their representatives;
• implementing risk retention-available options including use of affiliated insurers; and
• risk cost allocation.

120 credits

The Professional Placement module is a core module for those students following a masters programme that incorporates an extended professional placement that follows completion of the first 180 credits of taught modules and project or dissertation. It provides students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in an appropriate working environment, and to develop and enhance key employability skills and subject specific skills in their chosen subject.

It is the responsibility of individual students to locate and secure a suitable placement opportunity; this will normally involve one placement which must be completed over a minimum period of 10 months and within a maximum of 12 months. The placement must be approved by the module leader prior to commencement to ensure its suitability.