Career Opportunities
The MSc in Aviation Finance from the UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School gives you the specialised skills and knowledge you need for a career in the aviation finance and leasing sector. 97% of our graduates from this programme were employed after 6 months across a range of industry sectors. Source: Latest Graduate Outcomes Survey, published in September 2024.
Potential careers for our graduates include:
- Credit Risk Analysis
- Pricing Analyst
- Financial Modeling
- Treasury Analyst
- Risk Management
- Aviation Leasing Marketing and Negotiations
Companies hiring our graduates include
.png)
Alumni Insights
Keelin McGrath
MSc Aviation Finance 2020, Market Analyst at Avolon
"After obtaining my bachelor’s degree in Business and Law, I chose to study the MSc Aviation Finance in the UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business school as I wanted to obtain a focused education which would allow me to build a career in the Aviation Industry. Indeed, my time in Smurfit did just that. The course curriculum was crafted by a collaboration between experienced faculty and industry experts which ensured I gained the base knowledge and skill set I needed to commence a career in the Aircraft Leasing Industry. Additionally, the seminars and company visits, which formed part of the course, allowed students to gain great exposure to the industry and an understanding of how the industry works in practice. Finally, the learning environment struck a great balance between teamwork, collaboration and independent learning. I am delighted and grateful to have attended the UCD Smurfit School."
Rebecca Yue
MSc Aviation Finance 2019, Assistant Vice President, Commercial Aircraft Leasing (Marketing) at Jackson Square Aviation
"UCD Smurfit School helped me transition from a career in the public sector to the corporate sector. I am a Chemistry graduate with no prior business or finance knowledge and the MSc Aviation Finance provided the subject knowledge and skills that I still use in my day-to-day working life. The emphasis on group work throughout my degree helped me develop the skills to work in multicultural and diverse teams, essential skills needed in a global environment. UCD Smurfit School is much more than receiving a degree - the long-lasting connections I made whilst studying through the UCD alumni networks helped to jumpstart my career."
Brandon Sharkey
MSc Aviation Finance 2020, Trading Associate, Aviation Finance at Standard Chartered Bank
"The MSc in Aviation Finance has enabled me with both the knowledge and the skillset to secure a role at one of the world’s leading aircraft lessors. The academic staff have an abundance of industry experience and I would highly recommend the course to those looking to break into what is one of Ireland’s most dynamic and successful industries."
UCD Careers Network
The UCD Smurfit Career Development Centre team will work with you to define your career path and support you in developing the career-related skills, know-how, and confidence to pursue your post-MSc career goals.
Our holistic programme is designed to support you at key points in your career development. Our programme is structured into three key stages, designed to support you in building and driving your own career.
A variety of workshops, events, one-to-one career appointments and access to a range of online tools and resources prepare you for future opportunities.
Discover our Rankings and Accreditations
