What will I learn?
The course achieves the ideal balance between financial and computational theory and methodology, thereby enabling graduates to critically analyse and develop financial decision-making and risk management tools but also understand specific quantitative models and strategies applied in financial markets.
Acquisition of the theoretical, analytical and practical skills needed to manage portfolios of equity, fixed income and derivative securities and develop the tools for managing corporate financial risk.
Assimilation of implementation methods for financial models using various programming languages and the application of critical evaluation techniques to the performance of models.
The ability to carry out independent research on the uses of financial models, their implementation and their limitations.
How will I benefit?
- The programme not only attracts graduates from a number of different backgrounds but can also be tailored to a wide variety of academic and professional objectives, providing an enviable array of career options upon graduation.
- It provides a truly specialist preparation for a future career within the finance industry, in a variety of functions including fund management, investment banking, financial engineering and corporate treasury management.
- Graduates receive exemption from Professional Risk Managers certification examinations (Level I and II exams), the global standard for the world's top financial risk professionals.
- In the summer term, students can choose from certain summer term modules, or a research project, or in a number of cases, from a limited number of possible internships. With any possible internship opportunity, students may have to go through a competitive process, including potential interviews. The last number of years two thirds of our students acquired internship placements for the summer semester.
Curriculum
The 12-month, full-time course covers a broad range of disciplines and skill sets, whilst the personal and professional development of each student is achieved through a defined series of actions and events.
To complete the programme, students must complete 10 core modules in the Autumn and Spring Trimesters. In the Summer Trimester students must complete one core module and choose one of three pathways outlined below. In a small number of cases, students may apply for a limited number of possible internships. With any possible internship opportunity students have to go through a competitive recruitment process, including interviews with employers, to be selected.
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Core modules |
Core modules |
Core module Plus one Pathway Pathway A plus 2 option modules: OR OR |
Please be advised that the above reflects the 2023/2024 curriculum structure and is subject to change each year. Option modules listed are indicative of what has been delivered in previous years and are also subject to change.
The MSc in Quantitative Finance is a highly esteemed program that provides a thorough education in mathematical modeling tools and financial market strategies. Our curriculum provides comprehensive training in pricing and hedging financial securities, as well as advanced risk management techniques for varied portfolios. It is designed to cultivate the skills required for a successful and fulfilling career in finance. The vision of the programme is to enable and equip future leaders in the field of finance with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed. Our values include:
Rigorous Excellence. We are dedicated to maintaining the utmost levels of academic rigor, cultivating an atmosphere that combines theoretical, mathematical, and computational skills to perfection with excellent curriculum activities. We also provide selected top students with a module with MBA students enrolled in Yale University.
Inclusion and diversity. We embrace the variety of educational backgrounds, extending a warm welcome to driven students from fields such as Economics, Finance, or STEM subjects. The success of our program is greatly enhanced by the diversity of viewpoints and talents it encompasses. We aspire to create an inclusive environment for our students who can enrich their experiences and skills for the future job market.
Professional Recognition. In recognition of our dedication to achieving the highest standards, we have been granted Risk Management Accreditation by the Professional Risk Managers International Association (PRMIA). Upon graduation, individuals are granted exemptions from the PRMIA level 1 and 2 tests, thereby strengthening their qualifications as professional risk managers.
Flexibility for Professionals. Our program caters to the needs of individuals seeking a flexible work-life balance by providing both full-time and part-time choices. The part-time program emphasizes the significance of employer backing to ensure a comprehensive learning experience, while also catering to the needs of working professionals.
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Pathways. Our curriculum is designed to provide an excellent foundation for anyone interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in Finance, particularly those who have a strong desire for in-depth theoretical inquiry. We cultivate a setting that encourages and supports the exploration of intellectual curiosity to its utmost extent.
Immersive Education. We are dedicated to delivering our services in the most exceptional manner possible. The autumn trimester courses are taught with a high level of intensity, spanning two six-week periods, requiring concentrated effort. This design, enhanced by employer backing, guarantees a profound educational encounter.
Collaborative Engagement. We have faith in the efficacy of partnership. Both full-time and part-time students convene in lectures, tutorials, and group assignments. This joint endeavour reflects the cooperative essence of the finance sector.
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Programme Competency Goals
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Programme Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the programme students should be able to: |
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Programme Competency 1: Disciplinary knowledge in a global context Our graduates will develop a strong understanding of key concepts in finance needed to operate in a global context.
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Gain a comprehensive grasp of foundational concepts in finance, including but not limited to portfolio theory, asset pricing models, and financial derivatives.
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Explore advanced topics such as market microstructure, behavioral finance, and financial econometrics to build a nuanced understanding of the intricacies within the financial domain. |
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Programme Competency 2: Discipline-relevant quantitative and data analysis skills Our graduates will utilise statistical and econometric methods and utilise computer programming to help make informed business decisions.
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Acquire proficiency in employing sophisticated statistical methods and econometric techniques to dissect financial data. |
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Develop the ability to identify patterns, correlations, and anomalies within datasets, enhancing the capacity to derive meaningful insights and make informed financial decisions. |
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Cultivate practical skills in computer programming languages such as Python, R, Julia, or MATLAB to implement efficient data analysis workflows. |
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Programme Competency 3: Critical thinking Our graduates will be able to think critically about financial problems and provide potential solutions. |
Apply critical thinking skills to approach financial challenges with a discerning and analytical mindset. |
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Develop the ability to assess complex financial problems from multiple perspectives, formulating well-reasoned solutions that consider both quantitative and qualitative factors. |
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Programme Competency 4: Responsible Business Leaders Our graduates be responsible and ethical business leaders.
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Appreciate global issues concerning sustainability and ethical business governance. |
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Programme Competency 5: Data Proficiency Our graduates will develop the ability to manipulate and analyze large financial datasets. |
Gain proficiency in handling and manipulating large-scale financial datasets, reflecting the realities of contemporary financial markets. |
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Utilise techniques for efficient data cleaning, transformation, and integration, ensuring competence in managing the complexities associated with vast amounts of financial information. |
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Programme Competency 6: Communication and collaboration Our graduates will be able to communicate and collaborate effectively in diverse contexts. |
Develop strong communication and collaboration skills to articulate complex financial analyses and insights to diverse stakeholders, including colleagues, clients, and executives. |
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Cultivate the ability to present findings in a clear, concise, and persuasive manner through written reports, verbal presentations, and data visualization techniques. |
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Global Leadership Programme (GLP)
Our optional Global Leadership Programme (GLP) offers you a unique opportunity to engage in a diverse range of co-curricular professional development activities alongside the modules you take on the Master's programme. Participation in the GLP can give you an advantage over similarly qualified job candidates and increase your readiness for success in the workplace.
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